Pyongyang, August 11 – In response to devastating floods in the northern regions of North Korea, the government is evacuating over 15,000 people to the capital, Pyongyang. The state media outlet, KCNA, reported this significant development on Saturday.

The evacuation comes after record rainfall in late July, which led to widespread flooding, submerging homes and farmlands, and causing numerous casualties. The floods have particularly affected areas in northern China and North Korea, with the Wiju area being one of the hardest hit.

During a visit to the flooded Wiju area on Friday, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un emphasized the need for the country to rely on its own resources for recovery efforts. Despite offers of international assistance, including from South Korea, Russia, China, and the United Nations, Kim insisted that the recovery would be "based entirely on self-reliance."

Approximately 15,400 flood-affected individuals are being relocated to various shelters in Pyongyang, where they will stay until their homes can be rebuilt. This evacuation reflects the severity of the flooding and the government's efforts to provide immediate relief to those impacted.

Despite the ongoing tensions between North and South Korea, Seoul has extended an offer of humanitarian aid through the Korean Red Cross. Similarly, Moscow and other international entities have shown interest in assisting North Korea during this crisis. However, Kim Jong Un's commitment to self-reliance remains steadfast, as he acknowledged the offers of aid but reiterated the country's intention to manage the recovery independently.

This situation highlights North Korea's complex relationship with the international community, balancing offers of humanitarian support with a strong emphasis on national self-sufficiency.