Written By Lisa Murimi
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reportedly ordered the execution of up to 30 officials after catastrophic floods and landslides in July claimed approximately 4,000 lives.Â
According to South Korean media outlet TV Chosun, the officials were charged with corruption and dereliction of duty, leading to their sentencing by the state.
The floods, which ravaged Chagang province, left another 15,000 people displaced and caused widespread devastation.
Kim, who personally toured the affected areas, allegedly ordered the “strict punishment” of those he deemed responsible for failing to prevent the disaster.
An official under Kim’s regime told TV Chosun that the executions took place late last month, targeting leaders from the flood-stricken region.
The identities of those executed have not been independently verified, but reports suggest that Kang Bong-hoon, the provincial party committee secretary since 2019, was among those dismissed by Kim during an emergency meeting.
This incident is not the first time Kim has ordered severe punishments for perceived failures.
In 2019, reports emerged that he had executed Kim Hyok Chol, a nuclear envoy to the U.S., although it was later revealed Chol was in state custody.
The North Korean government has a history of public executions, with recent estimates suggesting a surge in such punishments.
