Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has conducted an inspection of a nuclear-material production base and a nuclear weapons institute, stressing the necessity of reinforcing the nation's nuclear shield amid ongoing tensions with what he described as "the most vicious hostile countries."
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim made these remarks during his visit to the production base and the Nuclear Weapons Institute. He examined the core processes involved in producing weapons-grade nuclear materials and received updates on the current state of production. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported these developments, though it did not specify the exact date of Kim's visit.
Kim highlighted the security situation facing North Korea, indicating that a prolonged confrontation with hostile countries necessitates the continuous strengthening of the nuclear shield. This move, he stated, is crucial for addressing both existing and emerging security threats, as well as ensuring the sovereignty, interests, and development rights of the country.
He further noted that the external challenges confronting North Korea remain severe, with hostile forces becoming increasingly aggressive. Kim emphasized that the accumulation and increase of nuclear weapons provide an absolute force to counteract North Korea's adversaries.
Kim also affirmed that the nation's nuclear technical capabilities are advancing steadily, asserting that achieving peace and security through strength is North Korea's chosen strategy. He called for exceeding the production targets for weapons-grade nuclear materials and enhancing the country's nuclear defense capabilities.
While the KCNA did not disclose which nuclear-material production base Kim visited, photos released by the agency suggest it might be the same facility he inspected in September of the previous year. South Korea's spy agency had previously reported to the National Assembly that the facility was likely the Kangson nuclear complex near Pyongyang, one of the two known nuclear sites in North Korea, along with the Yongbyon nuclear facility.
However, some observers speculate that Kim may have visited a different complex this time. Hong Min, a senior research fellow at the Korea Institute for National Unification, noted that the facility shown in the photos appears more outdated than the one revealed in September last year, suggesting it might be Yongbyon or another location.
Kim's call for enhanced nuclear capabilities comes shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump expressed an intention to engage with him, indicating that Kim may not be inclined to alter the current confrontational approach.