Seoul: Jo Yong-won, a North Korean party secretary and one of the closest aides to leader Kim Jong-un, appears to have been reinstated after undergoing suspected disciplinary reeducation. This development was reported by Seoul officials and sources on Tuesday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Jo was mentioned by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) as part of a group of high-ranking officials accompanying Kim during his visit to the Russian Embassy in Pyongyang. The visit was to commemorate Moscow's 80th Victory Day anniversary, as reported by Seoul's unification ministry. This marks the first instance where North Korean media identified Jo by name and title since he was last seen at a ceremony for regional industrial factories on February 28, which sparked speculation about his official status.

On April 27, KCNA released photographs that included Jo among officials at an event in Pyongyang to evaluate industrial products from new factories. However, at that time, he was not mentioned by name or title. A ministry official noted that Jo's reappearance in state media, identified by name and title, suggests his reinstatement.

Sources indicated that Jo might have undergone "revolutionization" reeducation, a mild disciplinary measure, possibly linked to a corruption scandal that emerged earlier this year. In addition to his role as party secretary, Jo serves as director of the ruling Workers' Party's organization and guidance department, overseeing personnel affairs.

In early 2025, KCNA reported that Kim Jong-un had reprimanded irregularities involving regional officials in Onchon Country, Nampho Municipality, and Usi County of Jagang Province, highlighting the necessity to enhance work ethic and discipline.