Yonhap

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un extended New Year's greetings in a short letter to the people Friday, apparently skipping his trademark address on the first day of the year ahead of a rare party congress expected to take place soon.

"I sincerely wish all the families across the country greater happiness and beloved people, good health. In the new year, too, I will work hard to bring earlier the new era in which the ideals and desires of our people will come true," Kim said in the letter carried by the Korean Central News Agency.

"I offer thanks to the people for having invariably trusted and supported our Party even in the difficult times. Pledging once again that I will always remain faithful to the great people," he added.

It was the first time for Kim to send such a letter since taking office after his father and late leader Kim Jong-il died in late 2011. It also marked the first time that a North Korean leader sent New Year Day's greetings to his people since 1995.