Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has pledged to transform the country into an "affluent" socialist "paradise" during an event commemorating the 80th anniversary of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea.

According to Anadolu Agency, Kim made this declaration in a speech at Pyongyang's May Day Stadium, attended by foreign dignitaries and various groups. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that Kim reflected on the party's history, emphasizing the need to balance economic development with a nuclear buildup to counter perceived nuclear threats from the US during the political turmoil of the 1990s.

Kim highlighted the unique challenges faced by North Korea, noting that no other country had to undertake such significant tasks for national defense and construction while contending with constant external pressures and threats. Despite these challenges, Kim asserted that North Korea's "international prestige" as a dedicated socialist state continues to grow.

Expressing confidence in achieving their objectives, Kim declared his goal of transforming North Korea into "a more affluent and beautiful land and into the best socialist paradise in the world." The celebrations on Thursday included fireworks, mass games, and an art performance, attended by notable foreign guests such as Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of the Russian Federation Dmitry Medvedev, and Vietnam's Communist Party leader To Lam.