PYONGYANG, North Korea — North Korea on Friday opened the first full congress of its ruling party since 1980, a major political event intended to showcase the country’s stability and unity under young leader Kim Jong Un despite international criticism and tough new sanctions over the North’s recent nuclear test and missile launches.

More than 100 foreign journalists were bused to the venue but were allowed to view it only from outside.

No one but presumably the thousands of delegates and officials were allowed inside the ornate April 25 House of Culture, draped in red party banners and flags.

Kim Jong Un, grandson of national founder and ‘‘eternal president’’ Kim Il Sung, is officially presiding.

The congress provides a major opportunity for Kim, who is still largely a mystery to the outside world and has yet to meet any world leaders, to step out of the shadows of his grandfather and father, Kim Jong Il.

The event is expected to tout his successes on the nuclear front and promise economic improvements to boost the nation’s standard of living.

ASSOCIATED PRESS