North Korean state media reported that the North Korean leader, Kim Jung-un, urged officials to focus on improving people's lives amid the "grim" economic situation, during his speech marking the anniversary of North Korea's Workers' Party.

The General Secretary of the Worker's Party of Korea said that the country is facing "huge tasks for adjusting and developing the state economy" and accomplishing the economic goals established in the recent party and government meetings, adding that "the only way for dynamically pushing forward the unprecedented crucial work despite grim situation is for the entire Party to get united."

He also noted that officials should not be after privilege and preferential treatment and must always keep in mind whether their work infringes "upon the interests of the people or cause trouble to the people."

In July, the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) announced that North Korea might face a food shortage of 860,000 tons this year, warning that its citizens may start struggling as of August.

The North Korean government, which is under a series of international sanctions, has long faced difficulties in securing food for its people and regularly suffers from food shortages.

Pressure on the North Korean economy has been increased by the border closures to counter the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as the series of storms and floods which hit the country last year.