North Korea suddenly replaces Prime Minister and Chairman of the Supreme People's Assembly

Vice Chairman of the State Affairs Commission of North Korea Choe Ryong-hae was approved yesterday to take over as Chairman of the Supreme People's Assembly, replacing his predecessor Kim Yong-nam. Premier Pak Pong-ju was also replaced by Kim Jae-ryong, one of the leading members of the Workers' Party of Korea.

The decision was made during the first session of the 14th Supreme People's Assembly of North Korea, an event closely watched by observers because it could reflect the policy direction Pyongyang will pursue.

Leader Kim Jong-un continues to hold the position of Chairman of the State Affairs Commission of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Analysts say this is the latest move in the process of promoting economic development and international exchanges that Kim Jong-un has pursued since 2018.

Kim Yong-nam, born in 1928, is one of the longest-serving officials in the North Korean government, having held the position of Chairman of the Supreme People's Assembly since 1998. Meanwhile, Choe Ryong-hae is also a powerful official in the Workers' Party of Korea, having held many positions and known the late North Korean leader Kim Jong-il for more than 50 years.

Prime Minister Pak Pong-ju served two terms in 2003-2007 and 2013-2019. He was in charge of economic reforms to help North Korea cope with sanctions, and was also one of three officials running the country when leader Kim Jong-un visited Vietnam in February.

Not much is known about Kim Jae-ryong, but his position could be key to Kim Jong-un's economic push.