North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has claimed that his nuclear-armed country could destroy South Korea if its security were threatened, while reiterating his refusal to engage in dialogue with Seoul.
The remarks were made as Kim concluded a key ruling party congress outlining North Korea’s strategic and military goals for the next five years.
Nuclear and Missile Expansion
According to state media, Kim called for the development of advanced weapons systems to further strengthen the country’s nuclear deterrent. These reportedly include intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) capable of being launched from underwater platforms, as well as an expanded arsenal of tactical nuclear weapons such as artillery systems and short-range missiles primarily aimed at South Korea.
He stated that the accelerated development of nuclear and missile capabilities has cemented North Korea’s status as a nuclear weapons state.
Conditional Openness to Washington
Despite his hardline stance toward Seoul, Kim signaled potential openness to dialogue with the United States. However, he insisted that Washington must first abandon what he described as hostile policies toward Pyongyang as a precondition for resuming long-stalled negotiations.
Tensions on the Korean Peninsula have remained high amid repeated missile tests and military exercises in the region. Analysts note that Kim’s latest comments reflect a dual strategy — strengthening military capabilities while leaving a narrow diplomatic window open for engagement with Washington.
The developments are likely to further shape regional security dynamics in East Asia in the coming years.
