North Korean leader looks to consolidate power at historic congress

Today, a worldwide historic event occurred - the 7th Congress of the Workers' Party in North Korea. While this seems like an every day event in the U.S., the last time this Congress has met was 1980. Unfortunately, this may not be a democratic event we hope for - in fact, the agenda includes electing Kim Jong Un to a higher position (which he already almost has total power) and placing more Kim Jong Un sympathizers in office. With this shift in power, Kim Jong Un is able to focus more of his attention on military activities such as nuclear capabilities. This nuclear development and testing has struck the attention of the U.N. and in turn they have enforced sanctions on North Korea. However, citizens are not weary of these events, since Kim has promised to improve living for the citizens. Those opposing goals seem unfathomable. North Korea may also face trouble ahead, since their economy is falling apart due to the sanctions from the U.N. However, with this clear focus on military, Kim Jong Un may be able to cut back funds for maintaining a traditional military. Either way, this is an interesting event and the Congress' decisions will have many long-term affects to North Korea and possibly the world. 

http://www.cnn.com/2016/05/05/asia/north-korea-congress/index.html

Haley Kuck