Ri Chil-gun has served as the Minister of Education of North Korea, a role he has held since at least 2014, if not earlier. In this capacity, he has been responsible for overseeing the country's educational policies, curriculum development, and the administration of schools and universities. His tenure has seen efforts to modernize the education system and adapt to technological advancements.
Beyond his ministerial duties, Ri Chil-gun is a significant figure in the Workers' Party of Korea. He was elected as an alternate member of the Political Bureau of the Workers' Party of Korea Central Committee at the 7th Congress of the Workers' Party of Korea in May 2016, a position he continues to hold. He is also a member of the Party Central Committee, which is a key decision-making body.
In April 2019, Ri Chil-gun was appointed as a Vice Premier of North Korea, further elevating his influence within the state administration. This role typically involves coordinating various government ministries and departments, often with a specific portfolio.
Throughout his career, Ri Chil-gun has also been a member of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly, North Korea's highest legislative body. His consistent presence in high-level government and party roles underscores his importance in the North Korean political landscape.