SEOUL, South Korea (AP) - North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has overseen significant weapons tests and has urged the military to enhance its "deadly and destructive offensive posture," according to state media reports published on Friday. This announcement comes amidst escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula, as Kim continues to fortify both nuclear and conventional military capabilities while refusing to engage in dialogue with South Korea and the United States.
The tests observed by Kim on Thursday were designed to assess the effectiveness of a "special mission" warhead for a tactical ballistic missile, an improved multiple rocket launch system, and the accuracy of shells with an extended firing range from a self-propelled gun-howitzer, as reported by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Kim stated that the outcomes of these tests demonstrated technological advancements aimed at transforming the fire posture in areas bordering the South, alluding to the target sites in South Korea, including U.S. military bases.
Kim emphasized that North Korea's self-defense strategy includes an objective to enhance a "deadly and destructive offensive posture" in order to deter any adversary from confrontation. He remarked, "To make the enemies feel constant uneasiness and fear is just an important aspect of the exercise of war deterrent." According to the KCNA, the special mission warhead tested is intended to "inflict fatal damage on major targets including airfields, ports, and power facilities of the enemy."
In response, South Korea's Defense Ministry announced plans to significantly bolster its drone warfare capabilities, citing increased military threats posed by North Korea, which has reportedly been receiving technological assistance from Russia. The new plans include developing long-range explosive drones, acquiring over 20,000 low-cost reconnaissance and attack drones, and training the entire 500,000-strong military force as "drone warriors."
Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back highlighted the urgent need to respond proactively to changing warfare dynamics and an evolving operational landscape, influenced by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where North Korean troops are reportedly collaborating with Russian forces. Ahn noted the importance of low-cost loitering munitions like drones, emphasizing that the South Korean military seeks to train all 500,000 troops across the army, navy, air force, and marines to operate drones as skillfully as personal firearms.
North Korea has focused on expanding its nuclear and missile arsenal since the collapse of Kim’s high-stakes diplomacy with former U.S. President Donald Trump in 2019. In addition to nuclear development, he has also stressed the need to build advanced conventional weapons. Recently, on Tuesday, North Korea commissioned a new 5,000-ton destroyer, touted by Kim as a representation of the nation’s growing naval and nuclear capabilities. The Choe Hyon is identified as North Korea's most advanced warship.
In response to persistent outreach from Trump aimed at reviving diplomatic discussions, Kim has asserted that negotiations can resume if the U.S. abandons its demand for North Korea's denuclearization as a precondition. Moreover, Kim's rhetoric towards South Korea has hardened, branding it as the "principal enemy" and overseeing the construction of additional military structures along their heavily fortified border.
Kim has also expanded his diplomatic relations in recent years, notably strengthening ties with Russia in support of its war against Ukraine. Furthermore, earlier this month, Chinese President Xi Jinping visited North Korea for the first time in seven years to meet with Kim, highlighting the shifting geopolitical alliances in the region.
