North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has ordered the construction of more modern hospitals as part of ongoing efforts to develop underdeveloped regions outside of Pyongyang, state media reported Monday. The direction was issued during Kim's visit to various regional factories currently under construction on Saturday and Sunday, where he "put forth a new policy to accelerate the implementation of the historic mission of regional rejuvenation," according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (C) visits construction sites for industrial factories from Aug. 24-25, 2024, in this photo provided by the North's official Korean Central News Agency. (For Use Only in the Republic of Korea. No Redistribution) (Yonhap) North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (C) visits construction sites for industrial factories from Aug. 24-25, 2024, in this photo provided by the North's official Korean Central News Agency. (For Use Only in the Republic of Korea. No Redistribution) (Yonhap) North Korea has bee n prioritizing economic development in backward provinces, following Kim's commitment to modernizing factories in 20 counties over the next decade. The so-called regional development 20-10 policy aims to raise what the regime refers to as the basic material and cultural living standards of the people. The KCNA reported that the new policy includes the construction of additional public health facilities, science and technology learning centers, and grain management stations, in addition to the ongoing development of regional industry factories. During his visit, Kim expressed satisfaction with the progress, noting that the overall construction project has been completed at over 80 percent. Kim was accompanied on his field inspection by Pak Jong-chon, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party, Jo Yong-won, secretary for organizational affairs, as well as other officials. Source: Yonhap News Agency