BANDUNG, SEATIZENS – On Tuesday, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un announced plans to speed up efforts toward becoming a military superpower. He emphasized that this includes developing nuclear weapons. Additionally, he warned that North Korea might use these weapons if it faces an enemy attack. This information comes from a report by the state news agency KCNA.
Furthermore, Kim specifically criticized South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol. This marks the second time this week he has done so. He accused Seoul of colluding with Washington to destabilize the region. He pointed out that South Korea ignores its own lack of adequate strategic weapons.
Kim stated, “Yoon Suk Yeol made some tasteless and vulgar comments about the end of the Republic in his speech.” He added, “This shows he is completely consumed by his blind faith in his master’s strength.” This remark highlights the ongoing tensions between the two Koreas.
During his speech at the Kim Jong Un National Defense University, which trains elite military specialists, Kim stressed, “To be honest, we have absolutely no intention of attacking South Korea.” He consistently emphasized the word “if” regarding military force. He noted, “If foreign enemies initiate aggression against our country, our military will use all offensive power without hesitation.” This could include the potential use of nuclear weapons.
Commitment to Becoming a Nuclear Power
Moreover, Kim declared, “Our progress toward becoming a military superpower and a nuclear power will accelerate.” North Korea has pursued a nuclear weapons program for decades. As a result, it likely possesses enough fissile material to construct numerous weapons. It has conducted six underground nuclear tests.
Last week, South Korea celebrated Armed Forces Day with a military parade. The event featured a ballistic missile capable of carrying a significant warhead. Additionally, it included a flyover from a U.S. strategic bomber. In his speech, Yoon warned North Korea against using nuclear weapons, stating, “That day will see the end of the North Korean regime.” This warning underscores the rising stakes in the region.
In addition, the South Korean defense ministry reported that North Korea might be building a new submarine. This information comes from intelligence reports. Earlier in January, Kim ordered the construction of a nuclear submarine. However, it remains unclear whether the new vessel will be nuclear-powered. Reports also indicate that North Korea is working on a submarine drone capable of carrying nuclear weapons, possibly with Russian assistance.
Impending Constitutional Changes
On Monday, KCNA reported that Kim made his remarks about becoming a “military superpower” during the same day the Supreme People’s Assembly convened. They discussed amendments to the constitution. Observers closely monitor this session as it may approve changes reflecting Kim’s belief regarding unification with South Korea.
Notably, these amendments would mark a significant departure from the long-standing goal of national unification. This contrasts sharply with previous efforts to improve ties. During the 2018 summit, leaders from both sides declared an end to war and the start of a new era of peace.
Strengthening Ties with Russia
In a separate development, KCNA indicated that Kim sent a birthday message to Russian President Vladimir Putin. In this message, he referred to Putin as his “closest comrade.” He stated that the “strategic and cooperative relations” between North Korea and Russia would reach new heights.
Moreover, South Korea’s Defense Minister, Kim Yong-hyun, noted a “high possibility” that North Korea might deploy troops to assist Russia in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Kim also informed a parliamentary hearing that reports regarding North Korean military officers killed in a Ukrainian strike in Russian-occupied areas were likely accurate.
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In June, Kim Jong Un and Putin solidified a comprehensive strategic partnership. This partnership includes a mutual defense pact. Both nations continue to deny accusations from U.S. and South Korean officials alleging that North Korea supplies arms to Russia.
(Firyal Trinidad)
