Seoul, South Korea – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a long-range strategic cruise missile launching drill, state media KCNA reported on Monday.
During Sunday’s drill, Kim urged ‘unlimited and sustained’ development of the country’s nuclear weapons forces, according to KCNA.
He expressed satisfaction as the cruise missiles flew along their preset orbit above the sea west of the Korean Peninsula and accurately hit their targets, KCNA added.
A responsible exercise: Kim
Kim described regular checks on the reliability and rapid response capabilities of the components of the North’s nuclear deterrent as ‘just a responsible exercise’, given that the country ‘is facing various security threats’.
He affirmed that Pyongyang would continue devoting all its efforts to developing its nuclear combat force, KCNA reported.
The test follows last week’s release of new images by North Korea showing significant progress on its first nuclear-powered submarine.
State media photos depicted Kim inspecting a nearly completed 8,700-tonne hull at a shipyard.
South Korean president to seek China’s help
These military advancements have further heightened tensions in the region, coinciding with preparations for South Korean President Lee Jae-myung’s planned visit to China in early January
Lee is expected to seek Beijing’s cooperation on addressing Pyongyang’s nuclear ambitions and related security issues.
Meanwhile, Japan, South Korea and the United States have conducted expanded joint air drills in recent weeks, including US B-52 bombers flying with Japanese fighter jets over the Sea of Japan earlier this month.
Pyongyang has accused such activities of undermining regional stability.
The developments occur amid a longstanding standoff over North Korea’s nuclear programme, encompassing warheads, ballistic missiles, and submarine-launched systems.
US President Donald Trump has expressed willingness for fresh engagement, urging Pyongyang to re-engage with Washington and regional partners.
DW
