Seoul: North Korea has announced a significant change in its military leadership with the appointment of Kim Song-gi as the new defense minister, replacing No Kwang-chol. This change, reported by state media on Sunday, is part of a broader reshuffle within the senior military leadership of the country.

According to Yonhap News Agency, North Korea addressed the United States' continued "hostile" policy, with a spokesperson from the foreign ministry promising the "toughest" countermeasures. The criticism was directed at the U.S. for its stance on denuclearization and human rights, which North Korea perceives as antagonistic.

In a separate development, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un reinforced strong diplomatic relations with Vietnam. In a letter to Vietnamese President To Lam on the occasion of Vietnam's 81st National Day, Kim emphasized the importance of strengthening the traditional friendship and cooperation between the two nations. The letter was made public by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Furthermore, North Korea held its 15th National Conference of Teachers in Pyongyang, where Kim Jong-un underlined the pivotal role of education in the nation's progress. He praised educators for their dedication and described education as a critical state affair that should not lag behind other sectors.

In domestic policy changes, North Korea has revised the charter of its ruling Workers' Party of Korea (WPK), removing references to "peaceful unification" with South Korea. This adjustment aligns with Pyongyang's view of inter-Korean relations as being between "two hostile" states, further cementing Kim Jong-un's position as the nation's sole leader. The revised charter was disclosed by Seoul's Institute for National Security Strategy (INSS).