North Korea's leader, Kim Jong Un, has declared that the country will not seek international aid to recover from the devastating floods that wreaked havoc near its border with China. Instead, Kim has instructed officials to relocate thousands of displaced residents to the capital, Pyongyang, to ensure they receive the necessary care and support.

During his two-day visit to the northwestern town of Uiju, Kim met with flood victims and discussed the ongoing recovery efforts. The state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) praised Kim's visit, describing it as a demonstration of his "sacred leadership" and his commitment to the welfare of the people.

The heavy rains in late July resulted in the flooding of 4,100 houses, 7,410 acres of agricultural fields, and numerous public buildings, structures, roads, and railways in Sinuiju and Uiju. While the exact number of casualties remains undisclosed, Kim pointed fingers at negligent public officials for the "unacceptable loss of life."

Despite offers from traditional allies Russia and China, as well as international aid groups, North Korea has not expressed a desire to accept outside assistance. In a statement, KCNA stated that Kim extended his gratitude to foreign countries and organizations for their humanitarian support but emphasized the belief in the nation's self-reliance and their own rehabilitation plans.

This stance mirrors Kim's response earlier in the week when Russian President Vladimir Putin offered help. While expressing his appreciation, Kim asserted that North Korea has established comprehensive self-rehabilitation strategies and will only depend on Moscow if the need arises.

Although South Korea has also offered aid supplies, it is unlikely that the North will accept this offer due to heightened tensions between the two countries. Ongoing disputes over North Korea's nuclear ambitions and South Korea's joint military exercises with the United States and Japan have strained relations. Furthermore, the North rejected South Korea's assistance during a COVID-19 outbreak in 2022.

KCNA reported that it would take approximately two to three months to rebuild homes and stabilize the flood-affected areas. In the meantime, the government plans to accommodate around 15,400 people, including mothers, children, older adults, and disabled soldiers, in facilities within Pyongyang.

North Korea's refusal to seek external aid highlights their commitment to self-reliance in the face of adversity. As the recovery efforts continue, the nation aims to quickly rebuild and provide necessary support to the affected population.