North Korea Signals Willingness for Improved U.S. Relations

North Korea's state media reported on Thursday that the ninth congress of the Workers' Party of Korea concluded in Pyongyang on Wednesday. According to Ming Pao, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un stated that the country is open to fostering amicable relations with the United States if the U.S. retracts its hostile policies towards North Korea. On the same evening, a parade was held in Pyongyang to commemorate the congress, with Kim Jong-un attending alongside his daughter. Both were seen wearing matching black leather jackets, sparking renewed speculation about his daughter's potential role as a successor.