Seoul, South Korea – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for a substantial increase in his country’s nuclear arsenal, citing growing threats from the United States and its allies. In a recent speech marking the 76th anniversary of North Korea’s founding, Kim warned that North Korea’s security was at risk due to U.S. military activities and pledged to grow its nuclear capabilities exponentially.
The announcement was made through the state-controlled Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), where Kim highlighted what he described as the “reckless expansion of the military bloc system led by the U.S.” This, he said, was a “grave threat” to North Korea’s security, necessitating a swift response. To counter these challenges, Kim confirmed plans to boost the country’s nuclear weapons stockpile at a rapid pace, using the term “geometrical progression” to describe the intended growth.
“The obvious conclusion is that the nuclear force of the DPRK and the posture capable of properly using it for ensuring the state’s right to security in any time should be more thoroughly perfected,” Kim said. He went on to clarify that North Korea is now fully committed to expanding its nuclear forces.
A Show of Military Might
Alongside Kim’s declaration, North Korean media released an image of Kim inspecting a new 12-axle transporter erector launcher (TEL), an upgraded version of the vehicle used to transport the country’s largest intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). The new TEL appears to be an improvement over the 11-axle version used to deploy the Hwasong-17 ICBM, signaling the potential development of a new missile. This further fueled speculation that North Korea may soon reveal a new long-range missile capable of reaching even greater distances.
In response to questions regarding the new TEL, Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said, “It’s not unusual for North Korea to use media reports and imagery to try to telegraph to the world.” Ryder reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to working with allies in the region, stating, “From a U.S. standpoint, again, our focus is on working with our regional allies and partners to include the ROK and Japan on preserving regional security and stability and deterring potential attack.”
Escalating Tensions in the Region
North Korea’s latest statements come at a time of heightened tension on the Korean Peninsula. Over recent months, Pyongyang has ramped up both its rhetoric and its weapons testing, alarming neighboring countries and the broader international community. Last month, the North unveiled new “suicide” attack drones, as well as an upgraded multiple rocket launcher system that threatens targets as close as Seoul, the South Korean capital, which is just 30 miles from the border.
Kim used his speech to reiterate that North Korea is a “responsible nuclear weapons state,” insisting that the country’s nuclear arsenal is strictly for defensive purposes. “We are constantly exposed to a serious nuclear threat,” he said. “Our nuclear weapons for defending ourselves do not pose a threat to anyone.” While the claim echoes Pyongyang’s longstanding justification for its weapons program, it does little to ease concerns about the region’s stability.
Though exact figures are difficult to verify, a recent report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute estimated that North Korea has assembled around 50 nuclear warheads, with the capability to produce up to 90. These estimates reflect North Korea’s growing nuclear capability, making it one of the most heavily armed states in terms of nuclear weapons per capita.
Responses from the U.S. and South Korea
South Korea and the United States have been conducting regular military exercises, further straining relations with the North. Recently, the two allies wrapped up a 13-day amphibious landing exercise near the southeastern city of Pohang, followed by the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield joint exercise. These drills have long been a point of contention for Pyongyang, which views them as preparations for an invasion.
In retaliation, North Korea has resumed Cold War-style psychological warfare tactics, including launching balloons carrying propaganda materials over the border into South Korea. Seoul responded by broadcasting counter-propaganda through loudspeakers near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), creating an atmosphere of heightened hostility.
As the standoff continues, North Korea shows no signs of backing down. Kim’s latest speech underscores the regime’s commitment to increasing its nuclear firepower, even as international sanctions and diplomatic isolation continue. With both sides showing little willingness to de-escalate, the risk of further conflict looms over the Korean Peninsula, raising questions about the future of peace in the region.
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