"Thanks to the foundation of self-supporting national economy, scientific and technical forces trained with our own efforts and their clear heads, there are no difficulties insurmountable for us despite the enemies' sanctions of 10 years or for 100 years," Kim said.

   He also expressed expectations for the academy's scientists to make a tangible contribution to building a prosperous and powerful country and sent "warm greetings" to all the scientists and technicians across the country, the KCNA said.

   Accompanying Kim to the visit was Pak Thae-song, vice-chairman of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea's Central Committee, Choe Tongmyong, department director of the CC and Jo Yong-won, vice department director of the CC, according to the report.

   It was Kim's first reported public appearance since he delivered his New Year address where he offered to join the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics and talk to South Korea over the participation. (Yonhap)