Since the Chosun Workers’ Party Delegates’ Conference did not open today, the last day of the first half of September, the eyes of Pyongyang watchers are turning as one to the future.

Although it is entirely plausible that the event could occur in the second half of September for several reasons, it has been speculated that early next month may make more sense, specifically in the period directly preceding the 65th anniversary of the Founding Day of the Workers’ Party on October 10th.

Notably, it is possible to imagine that after wrapping up elections to the highest organs of the Party at the Conference, the authorities would then wish to celebrate the Party’s foundation in a buoyant atmosphere.

Certainly, Rodong Shinmun releasing “we are facing (the Delegates’ Conference) ahead of the 65th anniversary of the Chosun Workers’ Party…” leads most experts to agree that the Conference has not been completely cancelled.

On this, one source from Yangkang Province reported to The Daily NK that the event is now most likely to occur between the 5th and 9th October.

“On October 10th, there will be one of the biggest events, the commemorative event of the Party Founding, so the Delegates’ Conference will raise the festive atmosphere and then they may continue to enjoy that mood,” he explained, adding, “There would be lots of advantage for North Korea in carrying out the Conference in advance of the event of the Party Founding. A positive political mood and sense among the people could be raised consecutively by the two big events.”

Park Young Ho, a senior researcher with the Korea Institute for National Unification (KINU) pointed out, however, “Since propaganda for the Party Delegates’ Conference has been spread rather actively, it is likely to be held soon. The delegates have already gathered in Pyongyang, so the cost of accommodation and controlling them could be a burden for the authorities.”

He pointed out, “Additionally, as one Party slogan says, “Once the Party decides, we will do,” the fact that the Party would alter its decision could be a shock for many North Korean people. For now, the authorities can give an excuse, flood damage or whatever, but other rumors like Kim Jong Il’s bad health condition can circulate among the people. Therefore, they don’t have any choice but to hold it sometime soon.”