The South Korean Unification Ministry says North Korea’s upcoming congress of its ruling Workers' Party is aimed at solidifying Kim Jong-un’s control over the North.
 
The ministry's spokesman, Jeong Joon-hee, was responding to a reporter's question Wednesday on what the government believes is Pyongyang's aim for opening the congress. 

Jeong said that through the seventh congress that opens on Friday, the North is seeking to complete its version of a socialist party-state system and strengthen the Kim Jong-un regime.
 
On the recent absence of Kim's public appearances in the North’s state-run media, Jeong said that the leader is still presumed to be taking part in various activities that have not been disclosed.
 
Jeong said that Seoul believes Kim is reviewing various preparations ahead of the party congress.
 
On the possibility of the North carrying out another nuclear test, Jeong said that the North could carry out another test at any time given its preparedness. He added Seoul is closely watching the North and continuously maintaining readiness.