The official said that Kim's attempt to overhaul the way he is perceived may be attributable to a failure to produce big accomplishments under the so-called 200-day campaign of hard work last year.

The North's leader originally set the deadline for building a new developed district in Pyongyang, named "Ryomyong Street, at the end of 2016.

But massive floods that hit the country's northeastern areas last year drained resources for the construction, causing delays.

"Many North Koreans are aware that the construction has yet to be completed. International sanctions are also putting severe strains on the country," the official said. "Kim may have felt burdened because of these (issues)."

In his New Year's address, Kim expressed rare regret over his inability to perform better, which analysts say is an attempt to paint himself as a caring leader. (Yonhap)