Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un presented newly developed sniper rifles to senior party and military officials following the conclusion of the ruling Workers’ Party congress, state media reported.

The ceremony was held after the week long political gathering, one of the country’s most important events, where leadership priorities and national policies were reviewed. The rifles were described as domestically produced weapons developed by the Academy of Defence Science and were presented as a symbol of trust and loyalty toward top officials.

Kim’s sister Kim Yo Jong was also present and was publicly identified as director of the party’s General Affairs Department, a role that signals her continued influence within the leadership structure.

Kim’s daughter Ju Ae appeared at the ceremony and was photographed handling and aiming a rifle at a firing range. Her growing presence at major state and military events has drawn attention from analysts, who believe it may signal efforts to strengthen the Kim family’s dynastic continuity, although she holds no formal political position.

The presentation came as the party congress closed with strong messaging on military strength and national defense. During the meeting, Kim reaffirmed plans to expand the country’s nuclear capabilities, maintained a hard line stance toward South Korea and indicated that relations with the United States could depend on future policy shifts.

Observers say the rifle presentation was largely symbolic but underscores the regime’s emphasis on military readiness, loyalty among elites and continued weapons development.

The event also highlighted evolving internal dynamics, including Kim Yo Jong’s expanding administrative role and the increasing public visibility of Ju Ae, suggesting ongoing consolidation of power and long term succession planning within the leadership.