Tensions are once again mounting on the Korean Peninsula after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un issued a stern warning, emphasizing the country’s readiness to use its full military force. Kim made the statement during a visit to the Kim Jong Un University of National Defense on Monday, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency.
“If the enemy attempts to use force against our state, the armed forces of the Republic will use all their offensive power without hesitation,” Kim said, stressing that North Korea wouldn’t rule out deploying nuclear weapons if necessary.
The North Korean leader further noted that his country’s march toward becoming a military superpower and advancing its nuclear capabilities will continue to gain speed. North Korea declared itself a nuclear state in 2022, passing a law that gives it the right to launch a preemptive nuclear strike should it feel threatened.
Kim’s remarks come in response to a statement from South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who last week made clear that any nuclear aggression from North Korea would result in the destruction of Kim’s regime.
“If North Korea attempts to use nuclear weapons, it will face the resolute and overwhelming response of our military and the ROK-U.S. alliance,” Yoon said in his Armed Forces Day address. “That day will be the end of the North Korean regime.”
Adding to the escalating tensions, South Korea unveiled a powerful new ballistic missile known as the Hyunmoo-5 during its military parade. This “bunker buster” missile is capable of delivering an 8-ton warhead, showcasing the South’s enhanced military capabilities.
In a scathing response, Kim referred to Yoon as an “abnormal man” in remarks that were carried by state media. On Monday, Kim doubled down on his criticism of Yoon, accusing him of placing too much trust in the U.S. and engaging in reckless behavior.
“A wise politician should not engage in reckless remarks about the safety of the country and the people, but should put more effort into managing the situation to prevent military conflicts rather than confrontation with a nuclear state,” Kim stated.
The deteriorating relations between North and South Korea have been marked by an increase in missile tests from Pyongyang and a hardline approach from Seoul. This year alone, Kim Jong Un publicly named South Korea as the North’s “principal enemy,” and called for a constitutional change to formally reject the idea of reunification.
Though North Korea had announced plans to convene a parliamentary session on Monday to revise its constitution, state media has remained silent on any outcomes as of Tuesday. Analysts speculate that this move may be linked to North Korea’s broader strategy of sending a message to the United States ahead of upcoming elections. Experts have even suggested that North Korea might conduct a provocative act, such as an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch or a nuclear test, in the near future.
Adding to the uncertainty, North Korea recently showcased its uranium enrichment facility, capable of producing weapons-grade material, further fueling speculation about its intentions. As tensions rise, the world watches closely, uncertain of what Pyongyang’s next move might be.
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