Summary of domestic news in North Korea this week

North Korea harshly criticized Japan in an official statement for visiting the controversial Yasukuni Shrine and paying ritual offerings. The North accused Japan of harboring militaristic ambitions and making a neo-militarist frenzy by honoring the shrine on August 15, the anniversary of Japan's 1945 surrender in World War II.

At a crucial party meeting, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un urged extraordinary responsibility and high prudence in the execution of major state projects. However, Kim did not address U.S. President Donald Trump's recent outreach to him, despite Trump's desire to engage with Kim this year.

North Korea also denounced a potential U.S. arms sale to South Korea and plans to fund millions of dollars for documenting North Korean human rights violations. The North described these actions as proof of continued hostility toward Pyongyang, citing a recent U.S. State Department approval for a possible sale of AIM-9X air-to-air missiles and related equipment to Seoul.

Furthermore, North Korea completed the construction of a new railway station at the Wonsan-Kalma tourist area on the east coast. The station, named Myongsasimni Station, was inaugurated in a ceremony attended by high-ranking officials, including Vice Premier Pak Hun, as North Korea strives to promote tourism in the region.