Kim Jong Un Executes 30 Officials Over Deadly Floods Over 4,000 Lives Lost

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered the execution of up to 30 officials following severe flooding and landslides that resulted in approximately 1,000 deaths.

The executions, which took place in late August, were reportedly carried out on charges of corruption and dereliction of duty.

Kim Jong Un expressed his outrage over what he described as an "unacceptable loss" of life and called for strict punishment for those responsible. Among those dismissed from office was Kang Bong-hoon, a prominent provincial leader. However, the identities of the other executed officials remain undisclosed. Despite the severity of the situation, North Korean media confirmed the dismissals but denied claims that the death toll had reached 4,000.

Kim Jong Un accused South Korea of spreading "false rumours" to harm North Korea's image.

This latest wave of executions comes amid a surge in public punishments in North Korea since the COVID-19 pandemic, with the annual rate reportedly increasing tenfold.

The North Korean leader had earlier visited flood-ravaged areas, acknowledging the extensive damage and stating that recovery efforts would take months.

Despite providing shelter for displaced citizens, particularly vulnerable groups in Pyongyang, the regime has faced internal and external criticism.

As scrutiny intensifies, North Korean officials continue to fear for their positions and lives under the regime's harsh crackdown.