Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has reprimanded officials responsible for delaying the completion of a general hospital in Pyongyang, blaming their "desire for fame" for undermining the ruling party's key project.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim made the remarks during his visit to the Pyongyang General Hospital ahead of its official opening. The visit highlighted the delay in the project's completion, a delay attributed to a focus on personal fame among senior officials. Initially, North Korea announced in February that the hospital's construction was complete. However, the facility was not fully operational as it lacked necessary medical devices and staff.
Kim criticized senior officials from the Cabinet and other sectors for pushing the project forward without proper budgetary approval and neglecting state financial discipline. He stated that these actions have caused economic losses and highlighted ongoing issues in economic management and political guidance within the state.
Kim had attended the hospital's groundbreaking ceremony in March 2020 and set a completion deadline for October of the same year. The construction faced setbacks due to material shortages and the COVID-19 pandemic. State media photos showed Kim inspecting various parts of the hospital, including the rooftop helipad and operational rooms, and meeting with medical workers. Medical devices and patient beds were also depicted.
The hospital is expected to open near the 80th founding anniversary of the Workers' Party of Korea on October 10. Kim described the hospital as a "present" from the WPK to the people for the anniversary. North Korea has also announced plans to build hospitals in three counties this year and aims to construct 20 hospitals annually starting in 2026, as part of Kim's policy to develop backward regions and improve public health.