North Korea’s Kim Jong Un wants to become a nuclear superpower

North Korea’s Military Ambitions
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has declared his intention to accelerate his country’s military development, aiming to transform North Korea into a “military superpower” with nuclear capabilities. Kim emphasized that the North would not hesitate to use nuclear weapons if faced with enemy aggression.
South Korea’s Response
Kim’s remarks drew a response from South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who warned the North against deploying nuclear weapons, stating that such an action would lead to the destruction of the North Korean regime. Yoon denounced North Korea’s collaboration with Washington and its alleged destabilization of the region.
Nuclear Arsenal and Missile Developments
North Korea has been pursuing a nuclear weapons program for decades and is believed to possess enough fissile material to produce numerous nuclear devices. The country has conducted six underground nuclear tests and remains committed to developing its nuclear arsenal.
Submarine Capabilities
South Korea’s defense ministry has indicated that North Korea may be constructing a new submarine, citing intelligence reports. The vessel’s exact capabilities remain unclear, but it could potentially be nuclear-powered. Additionally, North Korea is reportedly working on a submarine drone capable of carrying nuclear weapons, possibly with Russian assistance.
Constitutional Amendments
Kim’s military ambitions may be reflected in potential amendments to North Korea’s constitution, which is currently being debated by the Supreme People’s Assembly. The amendments would formally acknowledge the impossibility of unification with South Korea and designate the South as a separate, “principal enemy.” This move would effectively end the decades-old goal of national reunification.
Russia-North Korea Ties
North Korea maintains close relations with Russia, evident in Kim Jong Un’s birthday message to President Vladimir Putin. The two countries have established a “comprehensive strategic partnership” that includes a mutual defense pact. South Korea suspects that North Korea may be supplying arms to Russia for its war in Ukraine.
Troop Deployment Rumors
South Korea’s Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun raised concerns about the possibility of North Korean troops being deployed to assist Russia in the Ukrainian conflict. Reports indicate that North Korean military officers may have been killed in a Ukrainian strike in Russian-occupied territory. However, both Russia and North Korea deny supplying arms or providing military support.