The CIA World Factbook Every edition, 1990 to 2025 Asia
Executive branch North Korea, in 35 editions.
The entry for North Korea published Executive branch in 35 editions of 36, from 1990 to 2025. The text changed in 31 editions. Each is shown as published. Executive branch in every entry.
- editions changed the text
- 31
- the first edition with it
- 1990
- the latest edition with it
- 2025
Published as “Executive branch” (1990 to 2025), “Leaders” (1992 to 1993) and “Elections” (1992 to 1993).
field in that editiontext changed from the edition beforenot in that editionthe edition shownChoose an edition on the strip beside the text, or step through them with the arrows. Mark changes compares it with the edition before: the marks are ours, words added and words removed.
2025 edition
Changed since 2024Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- president,
- two vice presidents,
- premier,
- nine vice premiers,
- State Administration Council (cabinet)
president, two vice presidents, premier, nine vice premiers, State Administration Council (cabinet)
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- president,
- two vice presidents,
- premier,
- eleven vice premiers,
- State Administration Council (cabinet)
president, two vice presidents, premier, nine eleven vice premiers, State Administration Council (cabinet)
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
Published as “Executive branch”
- president,
- two vice presidents,
- premier,
- eleven vice premiers,
- State Administration Council (cabinet)
Published as “Leaders”
- Chief of State:
- President KIM Il-song (national leader since 1945, formally President since 28 December 1972);
- designated Successor KIM Chong-il (son of President, born 16 February 1942)
- Head of Government:
- Premier YON Hyong-muk (since December 1988)
Published as “Elections”
- President:
- last held 24 May 1990 (next to be held NA 1994); results - President KIM Il-song was reelected without opposition
- Supreme People's Assembly:
- last held on 24 May 1990 (next to be held NA 1994);
- results - percent of vote by party NA;
- seats - (687 total) the KWP approves a single list of candidates who are elected without opposition;
- minor parties hold a few seats
Rewritten: too little of the 1991 text remains to mark the changes.
president, two vice presidents, premier, eleven vice premiers, State
Administration Council (cabinet)
Chief of State:
President KIM Il-song (national leader since 1945, formally President since
28 December 1972); designated Successor KIM Chong-il (son of President, born
16 February 1942)
Head of Government:
Premier YON Hyong-muk (since December 1988)
President:
last held 24 May 1990 (next to be held NA 1994); results - President KIM
Il-song was reelected without opposition
Supreme People's Assembly:
last held on 24 May 1990 (next to be held NA 1994); results - percent of
vote by party NA; seats - (687 total) the KWP approves a single list of
candidates who are elected without opposition; minor parties hold a few
seats
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
Published as “Elections”
- President:
- last held 24 May 1990 (next to be held by NA 1994); results - President KIM Il-song was reelected without opposition
- Supreme People's Assembly:
- last held on 7-9 April 1993 (next to be held NA);
- results - percent of vote by party NA;
- seats - (687 total) the KWP approves a single list of candidates who are elected without opposition;
- minor parties hold a few seats
Published as “Executive branch”
- president,
- two vice presidents,
- premier,
- ten vice premiers,
- State Administration Council (cabinet)
Published as “Leaders”
- Chief of State:
- President KIM Il-song (national leader since 1948, president since 28 December 1972);
- designated successor KIM Chong-il (son of president, born 16 February 1942)
- Head of Government:
- Premier KANG Song-san (since December 1992)
president, two vice presidents, premier, eleven vice premiers, StatePresident:
Administration Council (cabinet)
Chief of State:
President KIM Il-song (national leader since 1945, formally President since
28 December 1972); designated Successor KIM Chong-il (son of President, born
16 February 1942)
Head of Government:
Premier YON Hyong-muk (since December 1988)
last held 24 May 1990 (next to be held by NA 1994); results - President KIM
Il-song was reelected without opposition
Supreme People's Assembly:
last held on 24 May 1990 7-9 April 1993 (next to be held NA 1994); NA); results - percent of
by party NA; seats - (687 total) the KWP approves a single list of
candidates who are elected without opposition; minor parties hold a few
seats
president, two vice presidents, premier, ten vice premiers, State
Administration Council (cabinet)
Chief of State:
President KIM Il-song (national leader since 1948, president since 28
December 1972); designated successor KIM Chong-il (son of president, born 16
February 1942)
Head of Government:
Premier KANG Song-san (since December 1992)
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
The entry for North Korea did not include Executive branch.
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Chong-il, is the son of and designated successor to former President KIM Il-song (who died 8 July 1994);
- formal succession has not yet taken place (January 1995);
- election last held 24 May 1990 (next to be held by NA);
- results - President KIM Il-song was reelected without opposition
- head of government:
- Premier KANG Song-san (since December 1992)
- cabinet:
- State Administration Council; appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly
Rewritten: too little of the 1993 text remains to mark the changes.
chief of state: KIM Chong-il, is the son of and designated successor
to former President KIM Il-song (who died 8 July 1994); formal
succession has not yet taken place (January 1995); election last held
24 May 1990 (next to be held by NA); results - President KIM Il-song
was reelected without opposition
head of government: Premier KANG Song-san (since December 1992)
cabinet: State Administration Council; appointed by the Supreme
People's Assembly
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Chong-il [defacto];
- note - President KIM Il-song was reelected without opposition 24 May 1990 and died 8 July 1994 leaving his son KIM Chong-il as designated successor;
- however the son has not assumed the titles that his father held and no new elections have been held or scheduled
- head of government:
- Premier KANG Song-san (since NA December 1992) was elected by the Supreme People's Assembly
- cabinet:
- State Administration Council was appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly
chief of state: KIM Chong-il, is the son of and designated successor Chong-il [defacto]; note - President KIM Il-song
to former(who
was reelected without opposition 24 May 1990 and died 8 July 1994); formal 1994succession leaving his son KIM Chong-il as designated successor; however the
son has not yet taken place (January 1995); election last assumed the titles that his father held and no new24 May 1990 (next to be elections have been held by NA); results - President KIM Il-song or scheduled
was reelected without opposition
head of government: Premier KANG Song-san (since NA December 1992)
was elected by the Supreme People's Assembly
cabinet: State Administration Council; Council was appointed by the Supreme
People's Assembly
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Chong-il [de facto];
- note - President KIM Il-song was reelected without opposition 24 May 1990 and died 8 July 1994 leaving his son KIM Chong-il as designated successor;
- however the son has not assumed the titles that his father held and no new elections have been held or scheduled
- head of government :
- Acting Premier HONG Song-nam (since NA February 1997)
- cabinet:
- State Administration Council appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly
- elections:
- premier elected by the Supreme People's Assembly
- election results:
- HONG Song-nam elected acting premier; percent of Supreme People's Assembly vote - NA
chief of state: KIM Chong-il [defacto]; [de facto]; note - President KIM Il-song
was reelected without opposition 24 May 1990 and died 8 July 1994
leaving his son KIM Chong-il as designated successor; however the
has not assumed the titles that his father held and no new
have been held or scheduled
head of government: government : Acting Premier KANG Song-san HONG Song-nam (since NA December 1992) Februarywas elected by the Supreme People's Assembly 1997)
cabinet: State Administration Council was appointed by the Supreme
People's Assembly
elections: premier elected by the Supreme People's Assembly
election results: HONG Song-nam elected acting premier; percent of
Supreme People's Assembly vote - NA
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Chong-il [de facto];
- note-President KIM Il-song was reelected without opposition 24 May 1990 and died 8 July 1994, leaving his son KIM Chong-il as designated successor;
- KIM Chong-il became General Secretary of the Korean Workers' Party on 8 October 1997, but has not assumed the presidency
- head of government:
- KANG Song-san is premier, but is in ill health; Vice Premier HONG Song-nam has been acting premier since NA February 1997
- cabinet:
- State Administration Council appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly
- elections:
- premier elected by the Supreme People's Assembly
- election results:
- NA
chief of state: KIM Chong-il [de facto]; note - President note-President KIM Il-song
was reelected without opposition 24 May 1990 and died 8 July 1994 1994,
leaving his son KIM Chong-il as designated successor; however KIM Chong-il
became General Secretary of the son Korean Workers' Party on 8 October
1997, but has not assumed the titles that his father held and no new elections presidency
have been held or scheduled
head of government : Acting government: KANG Song-san is premier, but is in ill health;
Vice Premier HONG Song-nam (since has been acting premier since NA February1997) 1997
cabinet: State Administration Council appointed by the Supreme
People's Assembly
elections: premier elected by the Supreme People's Assembly
election results: HONG Song-nam elected acting premier; percent of NA
Supreme People's Assembly vote -
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Chong-il;
- note--in September 1998, KIM Chong-il was reelected Chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded the nation's "highest administrative authority";
- KIM Young-nam was named President of the Supreme People's Assembly Presidium and given the responsibility of representing the state and receiving diplomatic credentials
- head of government:
- Premier HONG Song-nam (since 5 September 1998)
- cabinet:
- renamed DPRK Cabinet (naegak) on 5 September 1998;
- was previously called the State Administrative Council;
- Cabinet members, except for the Minister of People's Armed Forces, are appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly
- elections:
- premier elected by the Supreme People's Assembly
- election results:
- NA
chief of state: KIM Chong-il [de facto]; note-President Chong-il; note--in September 1998, KIM Il-song Chong-il
was reelected without opposition 24 May 1990 and died 8 July 1994, Chairman of the National Defense Commission, aleaving his son KIM Chong-il as designated successor; KIM Chong-il position accorded the nation's "highest administrative authority";became General Secretary KIM Young-nam was named President of the Korean Workers' Party on 8 October Supreme People's Assembly1997, but has not assumed Presidium and given the presidency responsibility of representing the state and
receiving diplomatic credentials
head of government: KANG Song-san is premier, but is in ill health; Premier HONG Song-nam
Vicehas been acting premier since NA February (since 5 September 1998)
1997
cabinet: renamed DPRK Cabinet (naegak) on 5 September 1998; was
previously called the State Administration Council Administrative Council; Cabinet members,
except for the Minister of People's Armed Forces, are appointed by
the Supreme
elections: premier elected by the Supreme People's Assembly
election results: NA
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Chong-il (since NA July 1994);
- note - in September 1998, KIM Chong-il was reelected Chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded the nation's "highest administrative authority";
- KIM Young-nam was named President of the Supreme People's Assembly Presidium and given the responsibility of representing the state and receiving diplomatic credentials
- head of government:
- Premier HONG Song-nam (since 5 September 1998)
- cabinet:
- Cabinet (Naegak),
- members,
- except for the Minister of People's Armed Forces,
- are appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly
- elections:
- premier elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held NA 1998 (next to be held NA)
- election results:
- HONG Song-nam elected premier; percent of Supreme People's Assembly vote - NA
chief of state: KIM Chong-il; note--in Chong-il (since NA July 1994); note - in September 1998, KIM Chong-il
head of government: Premier HONG Song-nam (since 5 September 1998)
cabinet: renamed DPRK Cabinet (naegak) on 5 September 1998; was (Naegak), members,
previously called the State Administrative Council; Cabinet
elections: premier elected by the Supreme People's Assembly Assembly; election last held NA 1998 (next to be held NA)
election results: HONG Song-nam elected premier; percent of Supreme People's Assembly vote - NA
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Chong-il (since NA July 1994); note - in September 1998, KIM Chong-il was reelected Chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded the nation's "highest administrative authority"; KIM Yong-nam was named President of the Supreme People's Assembly Presidium and given the responsibility of representing the state and receiving diplomatic credentials head of government: Premier HONG Song-nam (since 5 September 1998) cabinet: Cabinet (Naegak), members, except for the Minister of People's Armed Forces, are appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly elections: premier elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held NA September 1998 (next to be held NA) election results: HONG Song-nam elected premier; percent of Supreme People's Assembly vote - NA%
chief of state: KIM Chong-il (since NA July 1994); note - in September 1998, KIM Chong-il was reelected Chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded the nation's "highest administrative authority"; KIM Young-nam Yong-nam was named President of the Supreme People's Assembly Presidium and given the responsibility of representing the state and receiving diplomatic credentialsNA NA%
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Chong-il (since NA July 1994);
- note - in September 1998, KIM Chong-il was reelected Chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded the nation's "highest administrative authority";
- KIM Yong-nam was named President of the Supreme People's Assembly Presidium and given the responsibility of representing the state and receiving diplomatic credentials
- elections:
- premier elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held NA September 1998 (next to be held NA)
- election results:
- HONG Song-nam elected premier; percent of Supreme People's Assembly vote - NA%
- cabinet:
- Cabinet (Naegak),
- members,
- except for the Minister of People's Armed Forces,
- are appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly
- head of government:
- Premier HONG Song-nam (since 5 September 1998);
- Vice Premiers CHO Ch'ang-tok (since NA),
- KWAK Pom-ki (since NA),
- Sin IL-nam (since NA April 2002)
chief of state: KIM Chong-il (since NA July 1994); note - in September 1998, KIM Chong-il was reelected Chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded the nation's "highest administrative authority"; KIM Yong-nam was named President of the Supreme People's Assembly Presidium and given the responsibility of representing the state and receiving diplomatic credentials head of government: Premier HONG Song-nam (since 5 September 1998) cabinet: Cabinet (Naegak), members, except for the Minister of People's Armed Forces, are appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly
elections: premier elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held NA September 1998 (next to be held NA)
election results: HONG Song-nam elected premier; percent of Supreme People's Assembly vote - NA%
cabinet: Cabinet (Naegak), members, except for the Minister of People's Armed Forces, are appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly
head of government: Premier HONG Song-nam (since 5 September 1998); Vice Premiers CHO Ch'ang-tok (since NA), KWAK Pom-ki (since NA), Sin IL-nam (since NA April 2002)
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Chong-il (since NA July 1994);
- note - on 3 September 2003, KIM Chong-il was reelected Chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded the nation's "highest administrative authority";
- KIM Yong-nam was reelected President of the Supreme People's Assembly Presidium and given the responsibility of representing the state and receiving diplomatic credentials
- elections:
- premier elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held NA September 1998 (next to be held NA)
- election results:
- HONG Song-nam elected premier; percent of Supreme People's Assembly vote - NA%
- cabinet:
- Cabinet (Naegak),
- members,
- except for the Minister of People's Armed Forces,
- are appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly
- head of government:
- Premier PAK Pong-chu (since 3 September 2003);
- Vice Premiers KWAK Pom-ki (since 5 September 1998), CHON Sung-hun (since 3 September 2003), NO Tu-chol (since 3 September 2003)
chief of state: KIM Chong-il (since NA July 1994); note - in on 3 September 1998, 2003, KIM Chong-il was reelected Chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded the nation's "highest administrative authority"; KIM Yong-nam was named reelected President of the Supreme People's Assembly Presidium and given the responsibility of representing the state and receiving diplomatic credentials
elections: premier elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held NA September 1998 (next to be held NA)
election results: HONG Song-nam elected premier; percent of Supreme People's Assembly vote - NA%
cabinet: Cabinet (Naegak), members, except for the Minister of People's Armed Forces, are appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly
head of government: Premier HONG Song-nam PAK Pong-chu (since 5 3 September 1998); 2003); Vice Premiers CHO Ch'ang-tok (since NA), KWAK Pom-ki (since NA), Sin IL-nam 5 September 1998), CHON Sung-hun (since NA April 2002) 3 September 2003), NO Tu-chol (since 3 September 2003)
The same text in 2004 and 2005.
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Jong Il (since July 1994);
- note - on 3 September 2003, rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) reelected KIM Jong Il Chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded nation's "highest administrative authority";
- SPA reelected KIM Yong Nam President of its Presidium also with responsibility of representing state and receiving diplomatic credentials;
- SPA appointed PAK Pong Ju Premier
- head of government:
- Premier PAK Pong Ju (since 3 September 2003);
- Vice Premiers KWAK Pom Gi (since 5 September 1998), JON Sung Hun (since 3 September 2003), RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003)
- cabinet:
- Cabinet (Naegak),
- members,
- except for the Minister of People's Armed Forces,
- are appointed by the SPA
- elections:
- election last held in September 2003 (next to be held in September 2008)
- election results:
- KIM Jong Il and KIM Yong Nam were only nominees for positions and ran unopposed
chief of state: KIM Chong-il Jong Il (since NA July 1994); note - on 3 September 2003, KIM Chong-il was rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) reelected KIM Jong Il Chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded the nation's "highest administrative authority"; KIM Yong-nam was SPA reelected KIM Yong Nam President of the Supreme People's Assembly its Presidium and given the also with responsibility of representing the state and receiving diplomatic credentials credentials; SPA appointed
elections: premier elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held NA September 1998 (next to be held NA)
election results: HONG Song-nam elected premier; percent of Supreme People's Assembly vote - NA%
cabinet: Cabinet (Naegak), members, except for the Minister of People's Armed Forces, areby the Supreme People's Assembly PAK Pong Ju Premier
head of government: Premier PAK Pong-chu Pong Ju (since 3 September 2003); Vice Premiers KWAK Pom-ki Pom Gi (since 5 September 1998), CHON Sung-hun JON Sung Hun (since 3 September 2003), NO Tu-chol RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003)
cabinet: Cabinet (Naegak), members, except for the Minister of People's Armed Forces, are appointed by the SPA
elections: election last held in September 2003 (next to be held in September 2008)
election results: KIM Jong Il and KIM Yong Nam were only nominees for positions and ran unopposed
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Jong Il (since July 1994);
- note - on 3 September 2003, rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) reelected KIM Jong Il chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded nation's "highest administrative authority";
- SPA reelected KIM Yong Nam president of its Presidium also with responsibility of representing state and receiving diplomatic credentials;
- SPA appointed PAK Pong Ju premier
- head of government:
- Premier PAK Pong Ju (since 3 September 2003);
- Vice Premiers KWAK Pom Gi (since 5 September 1998), JON Sung Hun (since 3 September 2003), RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003)
- cabinet:
- Naegak (cabinet) members,
- except for Minister of People's Armed Forces,
- are appointed by SPA
- elections:
- last held in September 2003 (next to be held in September 2008)
- election results:
- KIM Jong Il and KIM Yong Nam were only nominees for positions and ran unopposed
chief of state: KIM Jong Il (since July 1994); note - on 3 September 2003, rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) reelected KIM Jong Il Chairman chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded nation's "highest administrative authority"; SPA reelected KIM Yong Nam President president of its Presidium also with responsibility of representing state and receiving diplomatic credentials; SPA appointed PAK Pong Ju Premier premier
head of government: Premier PAK Pong Ju (since 3 September 2003); Vice Premiers KWAK Pom Gi (since 5 September 1998), JON Sung Hun (since 3 September 2003), RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003)
cabinet: Cabinet (Naegak), Naegak (cabinet) members, except for the Minister of People's Armed Forces, are appointed by the SPA
elections: election last held in September 2003 (next to be held in September 2008)
election results: KIM Jong Il and KIM Yong Nam were only nominees for positions and ran unopposed
The same text in 2007 and 2008.
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Jong Il (since July 1994);
- note - on 3 September 2003, rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) reelected KIM Jong Il chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded nation's "highest administrative authority";
- SPA reelected KIM Yong Nam president of its Presidium also with responsibility of representing state and receiving diplomatic credentials
- head of government:
- Premier KIM Yong Il (since 11 April 2007);
- Vice Premiers KWAK Pom Gi (since 5 September 1998), JON Sung Hun (since 3 September 2003), RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003), THAE Jong Su (since 16 October 2007)
- cabinet:
- Naegak (cabinet) members,
- except for Minister of People's Armed Forces,
- are appointed by SPA
- elections:
- last held in September 2003 (next to be held in September 2008)
- election results:
- KIM Jong Il and KIM Yong Nam were only nominees for positions and ran unopposed
chief of state: KIM Jong Il (since July 1994); note - on 3 September 2003, rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) reelected KIM Jong Il chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded nation's "highest administrative authority"; SPA reelected KIM Yong Nam president of its Presidium also with responsibility of representing state and receiving diplomatic credentials; SPA appointed PAK Pong Ju premier credentials
head of government: Premier PAK Pong Ju KIM Yong Il (since 3 September 2003); 11 April 2007); Vice Premiers KWAK Pom Gi (since 5 September 1998), JON Sung Hun (since 3 September 2003), RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003) 2003), THAE Jong Su (since 16 October 2007)
cabinet: Naegak (cabinet) members, except for Minister of People's Armed Forces, are appointed by SPA
elections: last held in September 2003 (next to be held in September 2008)
election results: KIM Jong Il and KIM Yong Nam were only nominees for positions and ran unopposed
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Jong Il (since July 1994);
- note - on 9 April 2009, rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) reelected KIM Jong Il chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded nation's "highest administrative authority";
- SPA reelected KIM Yong Nam in 2003 president of its Presidium also with responsibility of representing state and receiving diplomatic credentials
- head of government:
- Premier KIM Yong Il (since 11 April 2007);
- Vice Premier KWAK Pom Gi (since 5 September 1998), Vice Premier O Su Yong (since 13 April 2009), Vice Premier PAK Su Gil (since 18 September 2009), Vice Premier PAK Myong Su (since 4 September 2009), Vice Premier RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003)
- cabinet:
- Naegak (cabinet) members,
- except for Minister of People's Armed Forces,
- are appointed by SPA
- elections:
- last held in September 2003; date of next election NA
- election results:
- KIM Jong Il and KIM Yong Nam were only nominees for positions and ran unopposed
chief of state:
KIM Jong Il (since July 1994); note - on 3 September 2003, 9 April 2009, rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) reelected KIM Jong Il chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded nation's "highest administrative authority"; SPA reelected KIM Yong Nam in 2003 president of its Presidium also with responsibility of representing state and receiving diplomatic credentials
head of government:
Premier KIM Yong Il (since 11 April 2007); Vice Premiers Premier KWAK Pom Gi (since 5 September 1998), JON Sung Hun Vice Premier O Su Yong (since 3 13 April 2009), Vice Premier PAK Su Gil (since 18 September 2003), 2009), Vice Premier PAK Myong Su (since 4 September 2009), Vice Premier RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003), THAE Jong Su (since 16 October 2007) 2003)
cabinet:
Naegak (cabinet) members, except for Minister of People's Armed Forces, are appointed by SPA
elections:
last held in September 2003 (next to be held in September 2008) 2003; date of next election NA
election results:
KIM Jong Il and KIM Yong Nam were only nominees for positions and ran unopposed
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Jong Il (since July 1994);
- note - on 9 April 2009, rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) reelected KIM Jong Il chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded nation's "highest administrative authority";
- SPA reelected KIM Yong Nam in 2009 president of its Presidium also with responsibility of representing state and receiving diplomatic credentials
- head of government:
- Premier CHOE Yong Rim (since 7 June 2010);
- Vice Premier HAN Kwang Bok (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier JO Pyong Ju (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier JON Ha Chol (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier KANG Nung Su (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier KIM Rak Hui (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier PAK Su Gil (since 18 September 2009), Vice Premier RI Thae Nam (since 7 June 2010);
- Vice Premier RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003)
- cabinet:
- Naegak (cabinet) members,
- except for Minister of People's Armed Forces,
- are appointed by SPA
(For more information visit theWorld Leaders website)
- elections:
- last election held in September 2003; date of next election NA
- election results:
- KIM Jong Il and KIM Yong Nam were only nominees for positions and ran unopposed
chief of state:
KIM Jong Il (since July 1994); note - on 9 April 2009, rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) reelected KIM Jong Il chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded nation's "highest administrative authority"; SPA reelected KIM Yong Nam in 2003 2009 president of its Presidium also with responsibility of representing state and receiving diplomatic credentials
head of government:
Premier KIM CHOE Yong Il Rim (since 11 April 2007); 7 June 2010); Vice Premier KWAK Pom Gi HAN Kwang Bok (since 5 September 1998), 7 June 2010), Vice Premier O JO Pyong Ju (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier JON Ha Chol (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier KANG Nung Su Yong (since 13 April 2009), 7 June 2010), Vice Premier KIM Rak Hui (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier PAK Su Gil (since 18 September 2009), Vice Premier PAK Myong Su RI Thae Nam (since 4 September 2009), 7 June 2010); Vice Premier RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003)
cabinet:
Naegak (cabinet) members, except for Minister of People's Armed Forces, are appointed by SPA
(For more information visit theWorld Leaders website)
elections:
last election held in September 2003; date of next election NA
election results:
KIM Jong Il and KIM Yong Nam were only nominees for positions and ran unopposed
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Jong Un [heir apparent} (since September 2011); note - the rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) reelected KIM Yong Nam in 2009 president of its Presidium also with responsibility of representing state and receiving diplomatic credentials
- head of government:
- Premier CHOE Yong Rim (since 7 June 2010);
- Vice Premier HAN Kwang Bok (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier JO Pyong Ju (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier JON Ha Chol (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier KANG Nung Su (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier KIM Rak Hui (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier PAK Su Gil (since 18 September 2009), Vice Premier RI Mu Yong (since 31 May 2011);
- Vice Premier RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003)
- cabinet:
- Naegak (cabinet) members,
- except for Minister of People's Armed Forces,
- are appointed by SPA
(For more information visit theWorld Leaders website)
- elections:
- last election held in September 2003; date of next election NA
- election results:
- KIM Jong Il and KIM Yong Nam were only nominees for positions and ran unopposed
chief of state:
KIM Jong Il Un [heir apparent} (since July 1994); September 2011); note - on 9 April 2009, the rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) reelected KIM Jong Il chairman of the National Defense Commission, a position accorded nation's "highest administrative authority"; SPA reelected KIM Yong Nam in 2009 president of its Presidium also with responsibility of representing state and receiving diplomatic credentials
head of government:
Premier CHOE Yong Rim (since 7 June 2010); Vice Premier HAN Kwang Bok (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier JO Pyong Ju (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier JON Ha Chol (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier KANG Nung Su (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier KIM Rak Hui (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier PAK Su Gil (since 18 September 2009), Vice Premier RI Thae Nam Mu Yong (since 7 June 2010); 31 May 2011); Vice Premier RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003)
cabinet:
Naegak (cabinet) members, except for Minister of People's Armed Forces, are appointed by SPA
(For more information visit theWorld Leaders website)
elections:
last election held in September 2003; date of next election NA
election results:
KIM Jong Il and KIM Yong Nam were only nominees for positions and ran unopposed
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011) note - the rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) reelected KIM Yong Nam in 2009 president of its Presidium also with responsibility of representing state and receiving diplomatic credentials
- head of government:
- Premier CHOE Yong Rim (since 7 June 2010); Vice Premiers: HAN Kwang Bok (since 7 June 2010), JO Pyong Ju (since 7 June 2010), JON Ha Chol (since 7 June 2010), KANG Nung Su (since 7 June 2010), KANG Sok Ju (since 23 September 2010), KIM In Sik (since 13 April 2012), KIM Rak Hui (since 7 June 2010), KIM Yong Jin (since 6 January 2012), PAK Su Gil (since 18 September 2009), RI Chol Man (since 13 April 2012), RI Mu Yong (since 31 May 2011), RI Sung Ho (since 13 April 2012), RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003)
- cabinet:
- Naegak (cabinet) members,
- except for Minister of People's Armed Forces,
- are appointed by SPA
(For more information visit theWorld Leaders website)
- elections:
- last election held in April 2012; date of next election NA
- election results:
- KIM Jong Un elected
chief of state:
KIM Jong Un [heir apparent} (since September 2011); 17 December 2011) note - the rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) reelected KIM Yong Nam in 2009 president of its Presidium also with responsibility of representing state and receiving diplomatic credentials
head of government:
Premier CHOE Yong Rim (since 7 June 2010); Vice Premier Premiers: HAN Kwang Bok (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier JO Pyong Ju (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier JON Ha Chol (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier KANG Nung Su (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier KANG Sok Ju (since 23 September 2010), KIM In Sik (since 13 April 2012), KIM Rak Hui (since 7 June 2010), Vice Premier KIM Yong Jin (since 6 January 2012), PAK Su Gil (since 18 September 2009), Vice Premier RI Chol Man (since 13 April 2012), RI Mu Yong (since 31 May 2011); Vice Premier 2011), RI Sung Ho (since 13 April 2012), RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003)
cabinet:
Naegak (cabinet) members, except for Minister of People's Armed Forces, are appointed by SPA
(For more information visit theWorld Leaders website)
elections:
last election held in September 2003; April 2012; date of next election NA
election results:
KIM Jong Il and KIM Yong Nam were only nominees for positions and ran unopposed Un elected
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011); note - the rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) reelected KIM Yong Nam in 2009 president of its Presidium with responsibility of representing state and receiving diplomatic credentials
- head of government:
- Premier PAK Pong-ju (since 2 April 2013); Vice Premiers: HAN Kwang Bok (since 7 June 2010), JO Pyong Ju (since 7 June 2010), JON Ha Chol (since 7 June 2010), KANG Nung Su (since 7 June 2010), KANG Sok Ju (since 23 September 2010), KIM In Sik (since 13 April 2012), KIM Rak Hui (since 7 June 2010), KIM Yong Jin (since 6 January 2012), PAK Su Gil (since 18 September 2009), RI Chol Man (since 13 April 2012), RI Mu Yong (since 31 May 2011), RI Sung Ho (since 13 April 2012), RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003)
- cabinet:
- Naegak (cabinet) members,
- except for Minister of People's Armed Forces,
- are appointed by SPA
(For more information visit theWorld Leaders website)
- elections:
- last election held in April 2012; date of next election NA
- election results:
- KIM Jong Un elected unopposed
chief of state:
KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011) 2011); note - the rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) reelected KIM Yong Nam in 2009 president of its Presidium also with responsibility of representing state and receiving diplomatic credentials
head of government:
Premier CHOE Yong Rim PAK Pong-ju (since 7 June 2010); 2 April 2013); Vice Premiers: HAN Kwang Bok (since 7 June 2010), JO Pyong Ju (since 7 June 2010), JON Ha Chol (since 7 June 2010), KANG Nung Su (since 7 June 2010), KANG Sok Ju (since 23 September 2010), KIM In Sik (since 13 April 2012), KIM Rak Hui (since 7 June 2010), KIM Yong Jin (since 6 January 2012), PAK Su Gil (since 18 September 2009), RI Chol Man (since 13 April 2012), RI Mu Yong (since 31 May 2011), RI Sung Ho (since 13 April 2012), RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003)
cabinet:
Naegak (cabinet) members, except for Minister of People's Armed Forces, are appointed by SPA
(For more information visit theWorld Leaders website)
elections:
last election held in April 2012; date of next election NA
election results:
KIM Jong Un elected unopposed
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011); note - in 2014, the rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) re-elected KIM Yong Nam president of its Presidium with responsibility of representing the state and receiving diplomatic credentials
- head of government:
- Premier PAK Pong Ju (since 2 April 2013);
- Vice Premiers: KIM Tok Hun (since 30 April 2014), KIM Yong Jin (since 6 January 2012), RI Chol Man (since 13 April 2012), RI Mu Yong (since 31 May 2011), RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003)
- cabinet:
- Naegak (cabinet) members,
- except for the Minister of People's Armed Forces,
- are appointed by SPA
(For more information visit theWorld Leaders website)
- elections:
- last election on 9 March 2014; date of next election NA
- election results:
- KIM Jong Un elected unopposed
note: the Korean Workers' Party continues to list deceased leaders KIM Il Sung and KIM Jong Il as Eternal President and Eternal General Secretary respectively
chief of state:
KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011); note - in 2014, the rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) reelected re-elected KIM Yong Nam in 2009 president of its Presidium with responsibility of representing the state and receiving diplomatic credentials
head of government:
Premier PAK Pong-ju Pong Ju (since 2 April 2013); Vice Premiers: HAN Kwang Bok (since 7 June 2010), JO Pyong Ju (since 7 June 2010), JON Ha Chol (since 7 June 2010), KANG Nung Su (since 7 June 2010), KANG Sok Ju (since 23 September 2010), KIM In Sik Tok Hun (since 13 30 April 2012), KIM Rak Hui (since 7 June 2010), 2014), KIM Yong Jin (since 6 January 2012), PAK Su Gil (since 18 September 2009), RI Chol Man (since 13 April 2012), RI Mu Yong (since 31 May 2011), RI Sung Ho (since 13 April 2012), RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003)
cabinet:
Naegak (cabinet) members, except for the Minister of People's Armed Forces, are appointed by SPA
(For more information visit theWorld Leaders website)
elections:
last election held in April 2012; on 9 March 2014; date of next election NA
election results:
KIM Jong Un elected unopposed
note:
the Korean Workers' Party continues to list deceased leaders KIM Il Sung and KIM Jong Il as Eternal President and Eternal General Secretary respectively
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011)
- head of government:
- Premier PAK Pong Ju (since 2 April 2013); Vice Premiers
- cabinet:
- Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
- elections/appointments:
- chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 9 March 2014 (next election NA)
- election results:
- KIM Jong Un elected unopposed
note: the Korean Workers' Party continues to list deceased leaders KIM Il Sung and KIM Jong Il as Eternal President and Eternal General Secretary respectively
chief of state:2011); note - in 2014, the rubberstamp Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) re-elected KIM Yong Nam president of its Presidium with responsibility of representing the state and receiving diplomatic credentials 2011)
head of government:Premiers: KIM Tok Hun (since 30 April 2014), KIM Yong Jin (since 6 January 2012), RI Chol Man (since 13 April 2012), RI Mu Yong (since 31 May 2011), RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003) Premiers
cabinet:(cabinet) members, members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except for the Minister of People's Armed Forces, are appointed by SPA Forces
(For more information visit theWorld Leaders website)
elections:last elections/appointments: chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 9 March 2014; date of next 2014 (next election NA NA)
election results:
note:
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011)
- head of government:
- Premier PAK Pong Ju (since 2 April 2013);
- Vice Premiers RI Ju O (since 29 June 2016), RI Ryong Nam (since 29 June 2016), KO In Ho (since 29 June 2016), IM Chol Ung (since 29 May 2014), KIM Tok Hun (since 19 June 2013), KIM Yong Jin (since 6 January 2012), RI Mu Yong (since 31 May 2011), RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003)
- cabinet:
- Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
- elections/appointments:
- chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 9 March 2014 (next election NA)
- election results:
- KIM Jong Un elected unopposed
note: the Korean Workers' Party continues to list deceased leaders KIM Il Sung and KIM Jong Il as Eternal President and Eternal General Secretary respectively
chief of state: KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011)
head of government: Premier PAK Pong Ju (since 2 April 2013); Vice Premiers RI Ju O (since 29 June 2016), RI Ryong Nam (since 29 June 2016), KO In Ho (since 29 June 2016), IM Chol Ung (since 29 May 2014), KIM Tok Hun (since 19 June 2013), KIM Yong Jin (since 6 January 2012), RI Mu Yong (since 31 May 2011), RO Tu Chol (since 3 September 2003)
cabinet: Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
elections/appointments: chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 9 March 2014 (next election NA)
election results: KIM Jong Un elected unopposed
note: the Korean Workers' Party continues to list deceased leaders KIM Il Sung and KIM Jong Il as Eternal President and Eternal General Secretary respectively
The same text in 2017 and 2018.
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- Supreme People's Assembly President KIM Yong Nam (since 5 September 1998);
- note - functions as the technical head of state and performs related duties, such as receiving ambassadors' credentials
- head of government:
- State Affairs Commission Chairman KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011); note - functions as the commander-in-chief and chief executive
- cabinet:
- Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
- elections/appointments:
- chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 9 March 2014 (next election NA)
- election results:
- KIM Jong Un reelected unopposed
note: the Korean Workers' Party continues to list deceased leaders KIM Il Sung and KIM Jong Il as Eternal President and Eternal General Secretary respectively
chief of state: Supreme People's Assembly President KIM Jong Un Yong Nam (since 17 December 2011) 5 September 1998); note - functions as the technical head of state and performs related duties, such as receiving ambassadors' credentials
head of government: Premier PAK Pong Ju (since 2 April 2013); Vice Premiers RI Ju O (since 29 June 2016), RI Ryong Nam (since 29 June 2016), KO In Ho (since 29 June 2016), IM Chol Ung (since 29 May 2014), KIM Tok Hun (since 19 June 2013), State Affairs Commission Chairman KIM Yong Jin (since 6 January 2012), RI Mu Yong (since 31 May 2011), RO Tu Chol Jong Un (since 3 September 2003) 17 December 2011); note - functions as the commander-in-chief and chief executive
cabinet: Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
elections/appointments: chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 9 March 2014 (next election NA)
election results: KIM Jong Un elected reelected unopposed
note: the Korean Workers' Party continues to list deceased leaders KIM Il Sung and KIM Jong Il as Eternal President and Eternal General Secretary respectively
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- Supreme People's Assembly President CHOE Ryong Hae (since 11 April 2019);
- note - functions as the technical head of state and performs related duties, such as receiving ambassadors' credentials
- head of government:
- State Affairs Commission Chairman KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011); note - functions as the commander-in-chief and chief executive
- cabinet:
- Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
- elections/appointments:
- chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 9 March 2014 (next election NA)
- election results:
- KIM Jong Un reelected unopposed
note: the Korean Workers' Party continues to list deceased leaders KIM Il Sung and KIM Jong Il as Eternal President and Eternal General Secretary respectively
chief of state: Supreme People's Assembly President KIM Yong Nam CHOE Ryong Hae (since 5 September 1998); 11 April 2019); note - functions as the technical head of state and performs related duties, such as receiving ambassadors' credentials
head of government: State Affairs Commission Chairman KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011); note - functions as the commander-in-chief and chief executive
cabinet: Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
elections/appointments: chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 9 March 2014 (next election NA)
election results: KIM Jong Un reelected unopposed
note: the Korean Workers' Party continues to list deceased leaders KIM Il Sung and KIM Jong Il as Eternal President and Eternal General Secretary respectively
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- Supreme People's Assembly President CHOE Ryong Hae (since 11 April 2019);
- note - functions as the technical head of state and performs related duties, such as receiving ambassadors' credentials
- head of government:
- State Affairs Commission Chairman KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011); note - functions as the commander-in-chief and chief executive
- cabinet:
- Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
- elections/appointments:
- chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 10 March 2019 (next election March 2024)
- election results:
- KIM Jong In reelected unopposed
note: the Korean Workers' Party continues to list deceased leaders KIM Il Sung and KIM Jong Il as Eternal President and Eternal General Secretary respectively
chief of state: Supreme People's Assembly President CHOE Ryong Hae (since 11 April 2019); note - functions as the technical head of state and performs related duties, such as receiving ambassadors' credentials
head of government: State Affairs Commission Chairman KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011); note - functions as the commander-in-chief and chief executive
cabinet: Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
elections/appointments: chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 9 10 March 2014 2019 (next election NA) March 2024)
election results: KIM Jong Un In reelected unopposed
note: the Korean Workers' Party continues to list deceased leaders KIM Il Sung and KIM Jong Il as Eternal President and Eternal General Secretary respectively
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- State Affairs Commission President KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011);
- note(s) - North Korea revised its constitution in 2019 to define "the Chairman of the State Affairs Commission" as "the supreme leader who represents the state";
- functions as the commander-in-chief and chief executive;
- the specific titles associated with this office have changed multiple times under KIM's tenure, however, KIM Jong Un has been supreme leader since his father's death in 2011 (2021)
- head of government:
- Supreme People's Assembly President CHOE Ryong Hae (since 11 April 2019);
- note - functions as the technical head of state and performs related duties, such as receiving ambassadors' credentials (2021)
- cabinet:
- Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
- elections/appointments:
- chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 10 March 2019 (next election March 2024)
- election results:
- KIM Jong Un reelected unopposed
note: the Korean Workers' Party continues to list deceased leaders KIM Il Sung and KIM Jong Il as Eternal President and Eternal General Secretary respectively
chief of state: State Affairs Commission President KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011); note(s) - North Korea revised its constitution in 2019 to define "the Chairman of the State Affairs Commission" as "the supreme leader who represents the state"; functions as the commander-in-chief and chief executive; the specific titles associated with this office have changed multiple times under KIM's tenure, however, KIM Jong Un has been supreme leader since his father's death in 2011 (2021)
head of government: Supreme People's Assembly President CHOE Ryong Hae (since 11 April 2019); note - functions as the technical head of state and performs related duties, such as receiving ambassadors' credentials
head of government: State Affairs Commission Chairman KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011); note - functions as the commander-in-chief and chief executive
cabinet: Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
elections/appointments: chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 10 March 2019 (next election March 2024)
election results: KIM Jong In Un reelected unopposed
note: the Korean Workers' Party continues to list deceased leaders KIM Il Sung and KIM Jong Il as Eternal President and Eternal General Secretary respectively
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- State Affairs Commission President KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011);
- note - North Korea revised its constitution in 2019 to define "the Chairman of the State Affairs Commission" as "the supreme leader who represents the state";
- functions as the commander-in-chief and chief executive;
- the specific titles associated with this office have changed multiple times under KIM's tenure, however, KIM Jong Un has been supreme leader since his father's death in 2011
- head of government:
- Supreme People's Assembly President CHOE Ryong Hae (since 11 April 2019);
- note - functions as the technical head of state and performs related duties, such as receiving ambassadors' credentials (2021)
- cabinet:
- Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
- elections/appointments:
- chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 10 March 2019 (next to be held in March 2024)
- election results:
- KIM Jong Un reelected unopposed
note: the Korean Workers' Party continues to list deceased leaders KIM Il Sung and KIM Jong Il as Eternal President and Eternal General Secretary respectively
chief of state: State Affairs Commission President KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011); note(s) note - North Korea revised its constitution in 2019 to define "the Chairman of the State Affairs Commission" as "the supreme leader who represents the state"; functions as the commander-in-chief and chief executive; the specific titles associated with this office have changed multiple times under KIM's tenure, however, KIM Jong Un has been supreme leader since his father's death in 2011 (2021)
head of government: Supreme People's Assembly President CHOE Ryong Hae (since 11 April 2019); note - functions as the technical head of state and performs related duties, such as receiving ambassadors' credentials (2021)
cabinet: Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
elections/appointments: chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 10 March 2019 (next election to be held in March 2024)
election results: KIM Jong Un reelected unopposed
note: the Korean Workers' Party continues to list deceased leaders KIM Il Sung and KIM Jong Il as Eternal President and Eternal General Secretary respectively
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- State Affairs Commission President KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011);
- note - within the North Korean system, KIM Jong Un's role as chief of state is secondary to his role as general secretary of the Korean Workers' Party;
- chief of state is used to engage with non-communist countries such as the US;
- North Korea revised its constitution in 2019 to define "the Chairman of the State Affairs Commission" as "the supreme leader who represents the state";
- functions as the commander-in-chief and chief executive;
- the specific titles associated with this office have changed multiple times under KIM's tenure, however, KIM Jong Un has been supreme leader since his father's death in 2011
- head of government:
- Supreme People's Assembly President CHOE Ryong Hae (since 11 April 2019);
- note - functions as the technical head of state and performs related duties, such as receiving ambassadors' credentials
- cabinet:
- Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
- elections/appointments:
- chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 10 March 2019 (next to be held in March 2024)
- election results:
- KIM Jong Un reelected unopposed
note 1: KIM Jong Un's titles include general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (KWP), chairman of the KWP Central Military Commission, president of the State Affairs Commission, and supreme commander of the Korean People's Army
chief of state: State Affairs Commission President KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011); note - within the North Korean system, KIM Jong Un's role as chief of state is secondary to his role as general secretary of the Korean Workers' Party; chief of state is used to engage with non-communist countries such as the US; North Korea revised its constitution in 2019 to define "the Chairman of the State Affairs Commission" as "the supreme leader who represents the state"; functions as the commander-in-chief and chief executive; the specific titles associated with this office have changed multiple times under KIM's tenure, however, KIM Jong Un has been supreme leader since his father's death in 2011
head of government: Supreme People's Assembly President CHOE Ryong Hae (since 11 April 2019); note - functions as the technical head of state and performs related duties, such as receiving ambassadors' credentials (2021)
cabinet: Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
elections/appointments: chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 10 March 2019 (next to be held in March 2024)
election results: KIM Jong Un reelected unopposednote: note 1: KIM Jong Un's titles include general secretary of the Korean Workers' Party continues to list deceased leaders KIM Il Sung and KIM Jong Il as Eternal President of Korea (KWP), chairman of the KWP Central Military Commission, president of the State Affairs Commission, and Eternal General Secretary respectively supreme commander of the Korean People's Army
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- State Affairs Commission President KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011)
- head of government:
- Supreme People's Assembly President CHOE Ryong Hae (since 11 April 2019)
- cabinet:
- Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
- elections/appointments:
- chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 10 March 2019 (next to be held in March 2024)
- election results:
- 2019: KIM Jong Un reelected unopposed
note 1: KIM Jong Un's titles include general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (KWP), chairman of the KWP Central Military Commission, president of the State Affairs Commission, and supreme commander of the Korean People's Army
note 2: within the North Korean system, KIM Jong Un's role as chief of state is secondary to his role as general secretary of the Korean Workers' Party; chief of state is used to engage with non-communist countries such as the US; North Korea revised its constitution in 2019 to define "the Chairman of the State Affairs Commission" as "the supreme leader who represents the state"; functions as the commander-in-chief and chief executive; the specific titles associated with this office have changed multiple times under KIM's tenure, however, KIM Jong Un has been supreme leader since his father's death in 2011
note 3: the head of government functions as the technical head of state and performs related duties, such as receiving ambassadors' credentials
chief of state: State Affairs Commission President KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011); 2011)
head of government: Supreme People's Assembly President CHOE Ryong Hae (since 11 April 2019)
cabinet: Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
elections/appointments: chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 10 March 2019 (next to be held in March 2024)
election results:
2019: KIM Jong Un reelected unopposed
note - 1: KIM Jong Un's titles include general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (KWP), chairman of the KWP Central Military Commission, president of the State Affairs Commission, and supreme commander of the Korean People's Army
note 2: within the North Korean system, KIM Jong Un's role as chief of state is secondary to his role as general secretary of the Korean Workers' Party; chief of state is used to engage with non-communist countries such as the US; North Korea revised its constitution in 2019 to define "the Chairman of the State Affairs Commission" as "the supreme leader who represents the state"; functions as the commander-in-chief and chief executive; the specific titles associated with this office have changed multiple times under KIM's tenure, however, KIM Jong Un has been supreme leader since his father's death in 2011
note 3: the head of government: Supreme People's Assembly President CHOE Ryong Hae (since 11 April 2019); note - government functions as the technical head of state and performs related duties, such as receiving ambassadors' credentials
cabinet: Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
elections/appointments: chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; election last held on 10 March 2019 (next to be held in March 2024)
election results: KIM Jong Un reelected unopposed
note 1: KIM Jong Un's titles include general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (KWP), chairman of the KWP Central Military Commission, president of the State Affairs Commission, and supreme commander of the Korean People's Army
Entry published as “Korea, North”.
- chief of state:
- State Affairs Commission President KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011)
- head of government:
- Supreme People's Assembly President CHOE Ryong Hae (since 11 April 2019)
- cabinet:
- Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly, except the Minister of People's Armed Forces
- election/appointment process:
- chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly
- most recent election date:
- 11 April 2019
- election results:
- 2019: KIM Jong Un reelected unopposed
- expected date of next election:
- March 2024
note 1: KIM Jong Un's titles include general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (KWP), chairman of the KWP Central Military Commission, president of the State Affairs Commission, and supreme commander of the Korean People's Army
note 2: in the North Korean system, KIM Jong Un's role as chief of state is secondary to his role as general secretary of the Korean Workers' Party; chief of state is used to engage with non-communist countries such as the US; North Korea revised its constitution in 2019 to define "the Chairman of the State Affairs Commission" as "the supreme leader who represents the state"; functions as the commander-in-chief and chief executive; the specific titles associated with this office have changed multiple times under KIM's tenure, but KIM Jong Un has been supreme leader since his father's death in 2011
note 3: the head of government functions as the technical head of state and performs related duties, such as receiving ambassadors' credentials
chief of state: State Affairs Commission President KIM Jong Un (since 17 December 2011)
head of government: Supreme People's Assembly President CHOE Ryong Hae (since 11 April 2019)
cabinet: Cabinet or Naegak members appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly Assembly, except the Minister of People's Armed Forceselections/appointments: election/appointment process: chief of state and premier indirectly elected by the Supreme People's Assembly; Assembly
most recent election last held on 10 March date: 11 April 2019 (next to be held in March 2024)
election results:
2019: KIM Jong Un reelected unopposed
expected date of next election: March 2024
note 1: KIM Jong Un's titles include general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (KWP), chairman of the KWP Central Military Commission, president of the State Affairs Commission, and supreme commander of the Korean People's Army
note 2: within in the North Korean system, KIM Jong Un's role as chief of state is secondary to his role as general secretary of the Korean Workers' Party; chief of state is used to engage with non-communist countries such as the US; North Korea revised its constitution in 2019 to define "the Chairman of the State Affairs Commission" as "the supreme leader who represents the state"; functions as the commander-in-chief and chief executive; the specific titles associated with this office have changed multiple times under KIM's tenure, however, but KIM Jong Un has been supreme leader since his father's death in 2011
note 3: the head of government functions as the technical head of state and performs related duties, such as receiving ambassadors' credentials
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Cite this page
Central Intelligence Agency. “North Korea: Executive branch.” The World Factbook, 1990–2025 editions. Archived by The Factbook, thefactbook.org/north-korea/executive-branch.