SEOUL — North Korean leader Kim Jong-un extended New Year’s greetings in a short letter to the people Friday, apparently skipping his trademark address on the first day of the year ahead of a rare party congress expected to take place soon. ADVERTISEMENT“I offer thanks to the people for having invariably trusted and supported our Party even in the difficult times. It was the first time for Kim to send such a letter since taking office after his father and late leader Kim Jong-il died in late 2011. It also marked the first time that a North Korean leader sent New Year Day’s greetings to his people since 1995. Kim has delivered a televised speech on Jan. 1 almost every year to put forth his annual policy plans and directions.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer January 01, 2021 03:22 UTC