North Korean leader Kim Jong-un visited the flood-hit areas of Sinuiju in North Pyongan Province from July 29 to 30, following heavy rains.
The official Korean Central News Agency and Rodong Sinmun released photos and videos on July 31 showing Kim using a lifeboat to inspect the inundated areas.
In the footage, Kim’s boat navigated a road that had turned into a river. The strong currents rocked the boat, which then headed towards a tree. Kim quickly ducked to avoid the branches while an accompanying official reached out to assist him.
The official raised his hand to protect Kim from the branches, and others on the boat worked to steer it clear. After passing the trees, Kim straightened up, adjusted his hair, and appeared to give directions while pointing to the back of the boat.
The village Kim Jong-un toured was severely affected, with nearly all buildings submerged up to their roofs, resembling a massive lake.
At the site, Kim reportedly scolded his officials, saying, “The failure to implement flood prevention measures has led to this disastrous situation.” He condemned the “irresponsibility and complacency” of key officials. He then held an emergency Politburo meeting in Sinuiju, replacing the social security minister and the party committee heads of North Pyongan and Jagang provinces.
KCNA reported that heavy rains in Sinuiju and Uiju County, near the lower Amnok River, flooded over 4,100 households and 3,000 hectares of farmland, along with public buildings, infrastructure, roads, and railways.
Experts suggest that Kim Jong-un’s visit was intended to show his involvement in managing the disaster while deflecting blame onto high-ranking officials, likely to calm public sentiment.
The South Korean government noted that it is unusual for North Korea to disclose the flood situation so quickly. While the full extent of the damage is unclear, a government official told TV Chosun that the estimated number of deaths and missing persons ranges from 1,100 to 1,500, including rescue workers who died from overexertion.
