In what experts see as a&nbsp;further indication of her positioning as the successor to her father,&nbsp;North Korea has unveiled&nbsp;new postal stamps portraying leader Kim Jong Un's daughter. Kim Jong&nbsp;Un's&nbsp;children were never mentioned in state-run North Korean media for years. But, Kim Jong Un was spotted with his daughter by his side in November 2022, at the launch of the nation's most potent ballistic missile.

The daughter, who has never been identified by Pyongyang, has since made a number of high-profile appearances. The intelligence organisation in South Korea thinks she is Ju Ae, Kim's second child.

Five of the new stamps honouring the November 18 missile launch, which were unveiled by the government-run Korea Stamp Corporation on Tuesday, feature Kim and his daughter.

In captions describing the stamps on their website, the company referred to the unnamed girl as Kim's "beloved daughter." &nbsp;The series will be made available for the general public on Friday (February 17).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/has-north-korea-added-a-new-icbm-unit-to-its-military-562264">Has North Korea restructured its military by adding a separate ICBM unit?</a>

<h2>Kim Jong Un's daughter: North Korea's next leader?</h2>

As per some observers, the daughter's public appearances show that she is being prepared to succeed her father as the country's next leader, and the stamps solidify her status inside the Kim family's cult of personality.

An Chan-il, the director of the World Institute for North Korean Studies and a defector-turned-researcher, told AFP that the stamps "look like the official start of Kim Ju Ae's life as her father's successor."

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: North Korea bans women from having same name as Kim's daughter

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Others, however, argued that it was still too early to draw any conclusion, considering that Kim is still only in his 30s and that the daughter's name has never been fully revealed.

"Throughout North Korean history, whenever it officially named the country's heir apparent, they made sure people knew the name of the person," Yang Moo-jin, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul, told AFP.

"It's still very possible that Ju Ae is just being used for (propaganda)... while Kim's eldest son is being groomed as a successor behind closed doors."

(With inputs from agencies) 
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In what experts see as a further indication of her positioning as the successor to her father, North Korea has unveiled new postal stamps portraying leader Kim Jong Un's daughter.

In what experts see as a further indication of her positioning as the successor to her father, North Korea has unveiled new postal stamps portraying leader Kim Jong Un's daughter. Kim Jong Un's children were never mentioned in state-run North Korean media for years. But, Kim Jong Un was spotted with his daughter by his side in November 2022, at the launch of the nation's most potent ballistic missile. The daughter, who has never been identified by Pyongyang, has since made a number of high-profile appearances. The intelligence organisation in South Korea thinks she is Ju Ae, Kim's second child. Five of the new stamps honouring the November 18 missile launch, which were unveiled by the government-run Korea Stamp Corporation on Tuesday, feature Kim and his daughter. In captions describing the stamps on their website, the company referred to the unnamed girl as Kim's "beloved daughter." The series will be made available for the general public on Friday (February 17). ALSO READ | Has North Korea restructured its military by adding a separate ICBM unit? Kim Jong Un's daughter: North Korea's next leader? As per some observers, the daughter's public appearances show that she is being prepared to succeed her father as the country's next leader, and the stamps solidify her status inside the Kim family's cult of personality. An Chan-il, the director of the World Institute for North Korean Studies and a defector-turned-researcher, told AFP that the stamps "look like the official start of Kim Ju Ae's life as her father's successor." ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: North Korea bans women from having same name as Kim's daughter Others, however, argued that it was still too early to draw any conclusion, considering that Kim is still only in his 30s and that the daughter's name has never been fully revealed. "Throughout North Korean history, whenever it officially named the country's heir apparent, they made sure people knew the name of the person," Yang Moo-jin, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul, told AFP. "It's still very possible that Ju Ae is just being used for (propaganda)... while Kim's eldest son is being groomed as a successor behind closed doors." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

North Korea set to release series of stamps featuring Kim Jong Un's daughter

North Korea’s Kim Jong Un’s wife was spotted wearing a pendant in the shape of a ballistic missile ahead of a major military parade that took place on Wednesday night (February 8). Ri Sol Ju was snapped wearing the pendant at a banquet to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Korean People's Army in Pyongyang, North Korea, according to the Associated Press.&nbsp;The silver pendant, in the shape of North Korea’s largest intercontinental ballistic missile, took the spotlight from other accessories Ri Sol Ju wore.&nbsp;

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Kim Jong Un and his young daughter, meanwhile, took centre stage at the huge military parade,&nbsp;feeding into the speculation that she is being coached as a future leader of North Korea&nbsp;as her father showed off his latest, largest nuclear missiles.

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North Korea's Kim lauds army ahead of expected military parade <a href="https://t.co/LcswNgD79Z">https://t.co/LcswNgD79Z</a> <a href="https://t.co/qSSTypKf8g">pic.twitter.com/qSSTypKf8g</a>
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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Also watch |&nbsp;North Korea holds 75th anniversary of army and unveils ICBMs</div>

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Wednesday night’s&nbsp;parade put forth the newest hardware in Kim’s expanding nuclear arsenal, including what experts said was possibly a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile he could test in the&nbsp;following months.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-jong-un-oversees-nighttime-military-parade-which-displays-possible-icbm-560177">North Korea shows off largest-ever number of nuclear missiles at nighttime parade</a>

The nation's armed forces were established 75 years ago on the day of the military parade. It was also Kim Ju Ae's ( Kim Jong Un’s daughter)&nbsp;fifth known outing in public; she is thought to be nine or ten years old.&nbsp;

Kim, dressed in a black coat and fedora, was shown riding in a limousine to the parade with his wife and daughter in the North Korean state TV footage that was made public on Thursday (February 9). Additional images from the evening show Ri Sol Ju seated at the banquet with Kim Jong Un, their daughter, and military leaders.

(With inputs from agencies)

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North Korea’s Kim Jong Un’s wife was spotted wearing a pendant in the shape of a ballistic missile ahead of a major military parade that took place on Wednesday night (February 8).

North Korea’s Kim Jong Un’s wife was spotted wearing a pendant in the shape of a ballistic missile ahead of a major military parade that took place on Wednesday night (February 8). Ri Sol Ju was snapped wearing the pendant at a banquet to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Korean People's Army in Pyongyang, North Korea, according to the Associated Press. The silver pendant, in the shape of North Korea’s largest intercontinental ballistic missile, took the spotlight from other accessories Ri Sol Ju wore. Kim Jong Un and his young daughter, meanwhile, took centre stage at the huge military parade, feeding into the speculation that she is being coached as a future leader of North Korea as her father showed off his latest, largest nuclear missiles. North Korea's Kim lauds army ahead of expected military parade https://t.co/LcswNgD79Z pic.twitter.com/qSSTypKf8g — Reuters (@Reuters) February 8, 2023 × Also watch | North Korea holds 75th anniversary of army and unveils ICBMs Wednesday night’s parade put forth the newest hardware in Kim’s expanding nuclear arsenal, including what experts said was possibly a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile he could test in the following months. Also read | North Korea shows off largest-ever number of nuclear missiles at nighttime parade The nation's armed forces were established 75 years ago on the day of the military parade. It was also Kim Ju Ae's ( Kim Jong Un’s daughter) fifth known outing in public; she is thought to be nine or ten years old. Kim, dressed in a black coat and fedora, was shown riding in a limousine to the parade with his wife and daughter in the North Korean state TV footage that was made public on Thursday (February 9). Additional images from the evening show Ri Sol Ju seated at the banquet with Kim Jong Un, their daughter, and military leaders. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

North Korea: Kim Jong Un’s wife spotted wearing missile shaped pendant before military parade

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for an "exponential increase" in the country's nuclear arsenal, reported North Korea's state-run television KRT on Sunday (January 1). The state media said that Kim batted for new powerful missiles for "nuclear counterstrikes".&nbsp; Another state-run news outlet KCNA said that Kim called for development of another ICBM (intercontinental ballistic missile) system whose main mission is quick nuclear counterstrike.

Kim reportedly highlighted the need to boost the nuclear arsenal at a key meeting of the ruling Workers' Party. He also spoke about securing "overwhelming military power" to defend North Korea's sovereignty and security.

North Korea has carried out series of missile launches and tests in the year gone by. The tests have included ICBMs. Though each test drew widespread global criticism, North Korea chose to weather the storm and carry on with the tests.

As reported by North Korean state-run news outlets on Sunday, Kim accused Washington and Seoul of carrying out a "plot to isolate and stifle" Pyongyang, calling it "unparalleled in human history."

The report came hours after North Korea fired a short-range ballistic missile off its east coast, in a rare late-night, New Year's Day weapons test.

(With inputs from agencies)

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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for an "exponential increase" in the country's nuclear arsenal, reported North Korea's state-run television KRT on Sunday (January 1).

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for an "exponential increase" in the country's nuclear arsenal, reported North Korea's state-run television KRT on Sunday (January 1). The state media said that Kim batted for new powerful missiles for "nuclear counterstrikes". Another state-run news outlet KCNA said that Kim called for development of another ICBM (intercontinental ballistic missile) system whose main mission is quick nuclear counterstrike. Kim reportedly highlighted the need to boost the nuclear arsenal at a key meeting of the ruling Workers' Party. He also spoke about securing "overwhelming military power" to defend North Korea's sovereignty and security. North Korea has carried out series of missile launches and tests in the year gone by. The tests have included ICBMs. Though each test drew widespread global criticism, North Korea chose to weather the storm and carry on with the tests. As reported by North Korean state-run news outlets on Sunday, Kim accused Washington and Seoul of carrying out a "plot to isolate and stifle" Pyongyang, calling it "unparalleled in human history." The report came hours after North Korea fired a short-range ballistic missile off its east coast, in a rare late-night, New Year's Day weapons test. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

North Korea: Kim Jong Un wants ‘exponential increase’ in nuclear arsenal

North Korea fired two ballistic missiles towards the sea off the Korean Peninsula's east coast on Sunday, said Japan and South Korea, prompting “strong condemnation” to Pyongyang for escalating tensions.&nbsp;South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said the two medium-range missiles flew about 500 kms (311 miles). 
 
North Korea fired an "unidentified ballistic missile" towards the sea off the Korean Peninsula's east coast on Sunday, claims the South Korean military.&nbsp;"North Korea's ballistic missiles were launched at steep angles and landed in the East Sea," said South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff.

"South Korean and the United States intelligence authorities are conducting a thorough analysis, factoring recent trends related to North Korea's missile development," he added.

Watch |&nbsp;North Korea tests 'high-thrust solid-fuel motor'

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The South Korean presidential office in a statement said that Seoul convened a National Security Council (NSC) meeting over the&nbsp;missile launch and "strongly condemned" Pyongyang for escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

As per AFP, the Sunday launch follows North Korean testing of a "high-thrust solid-fuel motor", which the nation's state media described as a crucial test "for the development of another new-type strategic weapon system", which as per experts will allow for the quicker and more mobile launch of ballistic missiles.

Reuters reports that in the Sunday test, as per Japan's public broadcaster NHK, there was no damage and that the ballistic missile landed just outside the country's&nbsp;exclusive economic zone (EEZ).&nbsp;Japan’s vice defence minister Toshiro Ino said the missiles seemed to have landed outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-kim-jong-un-oversees-high-thrust-solid-fuel-motor-test-at-satellite-launch-site-543532">North Korea: Kim Jong Un oversees 'high-thrust solid-fuel motor' test at satellite launch site</a>

2022 saw North Korea fire an unprecedented number of missiles, including the firing of its most advanced ICBM.

The high number of tests comes even as international sanctions on North Korea decry the nation's weapons programme.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-threats-from-china-north-korea-japan-set-to-radically-overhaul-defence-policy-542945">Amid threats from China &amp; North Korea, Japan to announce radical overhaul of defence policy</a>

In spite of the heavy sanctions, Pyongyang has reportedly built up an arsenal of liquid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).

As per AFP, Kim has prioritised the development of solid-fuel engines for more advanced missiles, as the leader revealed his aim for Pyongyang to become an "irreversible" nuclear state, with the world's most powerful nuclear force.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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North Korea fired two ballistic missiles towards the sea off the Korean Peninsula's east coast on Sunday, said Japan and South Korea, prompting “strong condemnation” to Pyongyang for escalating tensions.

North Korea fired two ballistic missiles towards the sea off the Korean Peninsula's east coast on Sunday, said Japan and South Korea, prompting “strong condemnation” to Pyongyang for escalating tensions. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said the two medium-range missiles flew about 500 kms (311 miles). North Korea fired an "unidentified ballistic missile" towards the sea off the Korean Peninsula's east coast on Sunday, claims the South Korean military. "North Korea's ballistic missiles were launched at steep angles and landed in the East Sea," said South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff. "South Korean and the United States intelligence authorities are conducting a thorough analysis, factoring recent trends related to North Korea's missile development," he added. Watch | North Korea tests 'high-thrust solid-fuel motor' The South Korean presidential office in a statement said that Seoul convened a National Security Council (NSC) meeting over the missile launch and "strongly condemned" Pyongyang for escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula. As per AFP, the Sunday launch follows North Korean testing of a "high-thrust solid-fuel motor", which the nation's state media described as a crucial test "for the development of another new-type strategic weapon system", which as per experts will allow for the quicker and more mobile launch of ballistic missiles. Reuters reports that in the Sunday test, as per Japan's public broadcaster NHK, there was no damage and that the ballistic missile landed just outside the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Japan’s vice defence minister Toshiro Ino said the missiles seemed to have landed outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Also read | North Korea: Kim Jong Un oversees 'high-thrust solid-fuel motor' test at satellite launch site 2022 saw North Korea fire an unprecedented number of missiles, including the firing of its most advanced ICBM. The high number of tests comes even as international sanctions on North Korea decry the nation's weapons programme. Also read | Amid threats from China & North Korea, Japan to announce radical overhaul of defence policy In spite of the heavy sanctions, Pyongyang has reportedly built up an arsenal of liquid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). As per AFP, Kim has prioritised the development of solid-fuel engines for more advanced missiles, as the leader revealed his aim for Pyongyang to become an "irreversible" nuclear state, with the world's most powerful nuclear force. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

North Korea fired two ballistic missile into the East sea: Japan and South Korea

FIFA World Cup final is a global showstopper every four years. At the showpiece event's moments of reckoning such as the final match, cities worldwide wear flamboyant looks including the designated spots of big-screen celebrations. But in Qatar, the celebrations even outside the venues are not as flamboyant this time. The latest is the famous Kim Jong-un lookalike who expressed on social media that FIFA World Cup in Qatar has failed the vibe check from him as everyone around him is sober.&nbsp;

Howard, in earlier days of FIFA World Cup this month, shared videos of himself sarcastically “lobbying for North Korea 2030”. Howard’s North Korea filtered sarcasm has touched a chord with football fans.&nbsp;

ALSO READ -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kim-jong-un-lookalike-set-to-make-impression-at-singapore-summit-143132">Kim Jong-Un lookalike set to make impression at Singapore summit</a>

In Qatar, regular football fans have no access to alcohol at matches. Only spectators in the stadiums' high-end luxury suites have easy access to booze.

“I have been to the World Cup in Brazil and Russia, it was a blast,” Howard X, the Kim Jong-un lookalike said on Twitter on the evening before Argentina Vs. France FIFA World Cup final.

“This one in Qatar has a sterile vibe to it as everyone around me is sober. The only place that you can get a beer is a 20 minute walk from subway. One has to show (their) foreigner pass and go through airport style security,” he said.&nbsp;

Howard, in earlier days of FIFA World Cup this month, shared videos of himself sarcastically “lobbying for North Korea 2030”. Howard’s North Korea-filtered sarcasm has touched a chord with football fans both on and off the social media.

WATCH -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kim-jong-un-and-roderigo-duterte-look-alikes-take-hong-kong-by-storm-195117">Kim Jong-un and Roderigo Duterte look-alikes take Hong Kong by storm</a>

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Howard X, a music producer by profession, is an Australian citizen of Chinese descent. He is also an&nbsp;impersonator of Kim Jong-un, the North Korean dictator. Often, Howard has made it clear that he imitates the North Korean leader to satirise him, not to glorify him.

Among his numerous prank-filled appearances at global sports events, his visit to the North Korean cheerleaders on Valentine's Day at the PyeongChang Winter Olympics in 2018 garnered global media attention.

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FIFA World Cup final is a global showstopper every four years. At the showpiece event's moments of reckoning such as the final match, cities worldwide wear flamboyant looks including the designated spots of big-screen celebrations.

FIFA World Cup final is a global showstopper every four years. At the showpiece event's moments of reckoning such as the final match, cities worldwide wear flamboyant looks including the designated spots of big-screen celebrations. But in Qatar, the celebrations even outside the venues are not as flamboyant this time. The latest is the famous Kim Jong-un lookalike who expressed on social media that FIFA World Cup in Qatar has failed the vibe check from him as everyone around him is sober. Howard, in earlier days of FIFA World Cup this month, shared videos of himself sarcastically “lobbying for North Korea 2030”. Howard’s North Korea filtered sarcasm has touched a chord with football fans. ALSO READ - Kim Jong-Un lookalike set to make impression at Singapore summit In Qatar, regular football fans have no access to alcohol at matches. Only spectators in the stadiums' high-end luxury suites have easy access to booze. “I have been to the World Cup in Brazil and Russia, it was a blast,” Howard X, the Kim Jong-un lookalike said on Twitter on the evening before Argentina Vs. France FIFA World Cup final. “This one in Qatar has a sterile vibe to it as everyone around me is sober. The only place that you can get a beer is a 20 minute walk from subway. One has to show (their) foreigner pass and go through airport style security,” he said. Howard, in earlier days of FIFA World Cup this month, shared videos of himself sarcastically “lobbying for North Korea 2030”. Howard’s North Korea-filtered sarcasm has touched a chord with football fans both on and off the social media. WATCH - Kim Jong-un and Roderigo Duterte look-alikes take Hong Kong by storm × Howard X, a music producer by profession, is an Australian citizen of Chinese descent. He is also an impersonator of Kim Jong-un, the North Korean dictator. Often, Howard has made it clear that he imitates the North Korean leader to satirise him, not to glorify him. Among his numerous prank-filled appearances at global sports events, his visit to the North Korean cheerleaders on Valentine's Day at the PyeongChang Winter Olympics in 2018 garnered global media attention. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kim Jong-un lookalike says FIFA World Cup in Qatar failed his vibe check as all around are sober

Former South Korean president Moon Jae-in said that he will give up a pair of dogs gifted by the North Korean dictator, Kim Jong-un after their 2018 Inter-Korean summit, due to a lack of required support from his successor, the current South Korean president Yoon Suk-yeol.

After Moon Jae-in's term ended in May this year, he took the white Pungsan dogs -- named Gomi and Songgang -- to his personal residence.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-former-south-korean-president-wants-to-return-north-koran-puppies-531970">WION Fineprint | Former South Korean President wants to return North Korean puppies</a>

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The dogs, although categorised as state property, were allowed to be with the outgoing president after consultations with the presidential archives and the interior ministry.&nbsp;

'Unexplained opposition' from current president: Moon Jae-in

After the white pungsan dogs were allowed to go with outgoing president Moon Jae-in, within a due period of time, a legislative amendment to facilitate the move, including financial support, was to be done. But the process fell apart due to “unexplained opposition” from the administration of the incumbent president, Yoon Suk-yeol, Moon Jae-in’s office said.

“The presidential office seems to be negative toward entrusting the management of the Pungsan dogs to former President Moon,” Moon’s office said on Facebook.

“If that’s the case, we can be cool about it, as such an entrustment is based on the goodwill of both sides ... though ending it is regretful given they are companion animals he grew attached to.”

Yoon’s office has denied foiling the move, saying the agencies were still discussing the situation and it had not played any role.

Reports claim that Seoul's power corridors are hearing the debate over whether to provide former president Moon Jae-in with monthly subsidies totaling 2.5m won (£1,565) or not.&nbsp;

(With input from Reuters)

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Former South Korean president Moon Jae-in said that he will give up a pair of dogs gifted by the North Korean dictator, Kim Jong-un after their 2018 Inter-Korean summit, due to a lack of required support from his successor, the current South Korean president Yoon Suk-yeol.

Former South Korean president Moon Jae-in said that he will give up a pair of dogs gifted by the North Korean dictator, Kim Jong-un after their 2018 Inter-Korean summit, due to a lack of required support from his successor, the current South Korean president Yoon Suk-yeol. After Moon Jae-in's term ended in May this year, he took the white Pungsan dogs -- named Gomi and Songgang -- to his personal residence. WATCH | WION Fineprint | Former South Korean President wants to return North Korean puppies × The dogs, although categorised as state property, were allowed to be with the outgoing president after consultations with the presidential archives and the interior ministry. 'Unexplained opposition' from current president: Moon Jae-in After the white pungsan dogs were allowed to go with outgoing president Moon Jae-in, within a due period of time, a legislative amendment to facilitate the move, including financial support, was to be done. But the process fell apart due to “unexplained opposition” from the administration of the incumbent president, Yoon Suk-yeol, Moon Jae-in’s office said. “The presidential office seems to be negative toward entrusting the management of the Pungsan dogs to former President Moon,” Moon’s office said on Facebook. “If that’s the case, we can be cool about it, as such an entrustment is based on the goodwill of both sides ... though ending it is regretful given they are companion animals he grew attached to.” Yoon’s office has denied foiling the move, saying the agencies were still discussing the situation and it had not played any role. Reports claim that Seoul's power corridors are hearing the debate over whether to provide former president Moon Jae-in with monthly subsidies totaling 2.5m won (£1,565) or not. (With input from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Dogs given by Kim Jong-Un may be returned by former South Korean President

North Korea has passed a law that allows it to execute nuclear strikes if enemy forces launch an attack against its leadership, state media has said.

The law passed on Thursday by the North's parliament— Supreme People's Assembly— effectively makes its nuclear-armed status "irreversible" and bars any talks on de-nuclearisation.

"If the command and control system of the national nuclear force is in danger of an attack by hostile forces, a nuclear strike is automatically carried out immediately," the law says, according to the official Korean Central News Agency.

The law further states that nuclear weapons can be used to protect the country's strategic assets if it is attacked, and bans sharing of nuclear arms or technology with other countries, KCNA reported.

In his speech at the assembly, Kim Jong Un asserted that North Korea will never abandon nuclear weapons and missiles, adding that it needs to counter hostilities from the United States.

He also accused the US of working to weaken the North’s defences and conspiring to dethrone his authoritarian government.

"The utmost significance of legislating nuclear weapons policy is to draw an irretrievable line so that there can be no bargaining over our nuclear weapons," Kim said in a speech to the Supreme People's Assembly, reports Reuters.

North Korea has already declared itself a nuclear weapons state in its constitution, but the new law goes further to enshrine when nuclear weapons can be used, including to respond to an attack, or stop an invasion.

US President Joe Biden has offered to talk to Kim any time, at any place, and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has said his country would provide massive amounts of economic aid if Pyongyang dials down on ramping up its arsenal.

(With inputs from agencies)

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North Korea has passed a law that allows it to execute nuclear strikes if enemy forces launch an attack against its leadership, state media has said. The law passed on Thursday by the North's parliament— Supreme People's Assembly— effectively makes its nuclear-armed status "irreversible" and bars any talks on de-nuclearisation.

North Korea has passed a law that allows it to execute nuclear strikes if enemy forces launch an attack against its leadership, state media has said. The law passed on Thursday by the North's parliament— Supreme People's Assembly— effectively makes its nuclear-armed status "irreversible" and bars any talks on de-nuclearisation. "If the command and control system of the national nuclear force is in danger of an attack by hostile forces, a nuclear strike is automatically carried out immediately," the law says, according to the official Korean Central News Agency. The law further states that nuclear weapons can be used to protect the country's strategic assets if it is attacked, and bans sharing of nuclear arms or technology with other countries, KCNA reported. In his speech at the assembly, Kim Jong Un asserted that North Korea will never abandon nuclear weapons and missiles, adding that it needs to counter hostilities from the United States. He also accused the US of working to weaken the North’s defences and conspiring to dethrone his authoritarian government. "The utmost significance of legislating nuclear weapons policy is to draw an irretrievable line so that there can be no bargaining over our nuclear weapons," Kim said in a speech to the Supreme People's Assembly, reports Reuters. North Korea has already declared itself a nuclear weapons state in its constitution, but the new law goes further to enshrine when nuclear weapons can be used, including to respond to an attack, or stop an invasion. US President Joe Biden has offered to talk to Kim any time, at any place, and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has said his country would provide massive amounts of economic aid if Pyongyang dials down on ramping up its arsenal. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

North Korea passes law that makes nuclear status ‘irreversible’; Kim says won’t give up nukes

After a hiatus of five years, allies USA and South Korea have begun their annual joint military drills, named Ulchi Freedom Shield in the region, much to the chagrin of 'notorious' neighbour North Korea.

After a hiatus of five years, allies USA and South Korea have begun their annual joint military drills, named Ulchi Freedom Shield in the region, much to the chagrin of 'notorious' neighbour North Korea. The military drill started on Monday (August 22) and is expected to carry on till September 1. The drill will see both sides carry out field exercises involving tens of thousands of troops, tanks, aircraft and warships. Both sides have stated that the 'defensive' exercise aims to coordinate a response, in case of an invasion from North Korea. The exercise has been broken down into two parts with the first segment simulating North Korean attacks on the capital city of Seoul as the combined forces attempt to protect the area. Meanwhile, the second segment is aimed at improving the counterattack operations against the enemy. North Korea describes the US-South Korea relationship and the exercise as a rehearsal for an invasion of its homeland. Due to Covid and several other reasons, particularly South Korea's insistence to mend the ties with North Korea, the exercise could not materialise in the last few years. North Korea is miffed with Washington and Seoul As reported by WION, in anticipation of the military exercise, North Korea fired two cruise missiles last week, ending a month-long lull in Pyongyang's record-breaking spate of weapons tests this year. Read More: North Korea fires two cruise missiles: South Korean defence ministry Moreover, the firing came in the backdrop of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol extending an “audacious” economic assistance package to North Korea in exchange for denuclearisation. Reportedly, in a televised speech celebrating the end of Japan's colonisation of the Korean Peninsula, President Yoon Suk Yeol offered economic assistance to its troubled neighbour with the caveat that it abandon the nuclear weapons programme. "If North Korea halts its nuclear weapons development and genuinely commits to a process of denuclearization, the South will respond with huge economic rewards that would be provided in phases," said Yoon in the speech. However, soon, North Korea released a statement and rebuffed any chances of taking the deal. Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un termed the offer 'foolish' and stated that her country would never accept the offer. Read More: Kim Jong Un's sister rejects South Korea's economic assistance plan; will not give up nukes “I’m not sure that he knows his assumption ‘if the North took a measure for denuclearization’ was a wrong prerequisite. All cannot be bartered. Bitter contempt is what we will only show those spinning a pipedream to succeed in making us abandon our nukes if they pay more stakes.” said Kim Yo Jong (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

South Korea, US kick off military exercises, much to the chagrin of North Korea

Days after South Korea extended an “audacious” economic assistance package to North Korea in exchange for denuclearisation, it has received a message, albeit one that is not too courteous. Reportedly, Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un termed the offer 'foolish' and stated that her country would never accept the offer.&nbsp;

Referring to South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, Kim Yo Jong added, “I’m not sure that he knows his assumption ‘if the North took a measure for denuclearization’ was a wrong prerequisite. All cannot be bartered. Bitter contempt is what we will only show those spinning a pipedream to succeed in making us abandon our nukes if they pay more stakes.”

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-slams-un-chief-over-biased-support-for-the-norths-denuclearisation-506635">North Korea slams UN chief over 'biased' support for its denuclearisation</a>

Will not sit face-to-face with him:&nbsp;Kim Yo Jong

The statements were published in the Friday edition of North Korea’s official Rodong Sinmun newspaper. In the commentary, Kim Yo Jong stressed that her country had no intentions to give away its nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles program.&nbsp;

"Though he may knock at the door with what large plan in the future as his "bold plan" does not work, we make it clear that we will not sit face to face with him," she added.&nbsp;

The powerful North Korean leader, second only to her brother Kim Jong Un, also questioned the sincerity of South Korea and its call to improve bilateral ties.

She stated that Seoul continues to engage in military exercises with the US whilst failing to stop its civilian activists from flying anti-Pyongyang propaganda leaflets and other “dirty wastes” across their border, according to AP.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sister-says-kim-jong-un-was-seriously-ill-during-covid-outbreak-blames-south-korea-505943">Sister says Kim Jong Un was seriously ill during covid outbreak, blames South Korea</a>

What did South Korea say?

As reported by WION, in a televised speech celebrating the end of Japan's colonisation of the Korean Peninsula, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, earlier this week, offered economic assistance with the caveat that its neighbour abandon the nuclear weapons program.&nbsp;

Under the scheme, South Korea was offering large-scale aid in food and health care. Correspondingly, it also promised to modernise the airports, seaports and electricity generation methods in the country.&nbsp;

"If North Korea halts its nuclear weapons development and genuinely commits to a process of denuclearization, the South will respond with huge economic rewards that would be provided in phases," said Yoon in the speech.

Yoon's statement came a few hours after North Korea fired two cruise missiles ending a month-long lull in Pyongyang's record-breaking spate of weapons tests this year. However, turns out, the olive branch has been refused, that too for the umpteenth time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Read More:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-two-cruise-missiles-seoul-defence-ministry-507766">&nbsp;North Korea fires two cruise missiles: South Korean defence ministry</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Days after South Korea extended an “audacious” economic assistance package to North Korea in exchange for denuclearisation, it has received a message, albeit one that is not too courteous.

Days after South Korea extended an “audacious” economic assistance package to North Korea in exchange for denuclearisation, it has received a message, albeit one that is not too courteous. Reportedly, Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un termed the offer 'foolish' and stated that her country would never accept the offer. Referring to South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, Kim Yo Jong added, “I’m not sure that he knows his assumption ‘if the North took a measure for denuclearization’ was a wrong prerequisite. All cannot be bartered. Bitter contempt is what we will only show those spinning a pipedream to succeed in making us abandon our nukes if they pay more stakes.” Read More: North Korea slams UN chief over 'biased' support for its denuclearisation Will not sit face-to-face with him: Kim Yo Jong The statements were published in the Friday edition of North Korea’s official Rodong Sinmun newspaper. In the commentary, Kim Yo Jong stressed that her country had no intentions to give away its nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles program. "Though he may knock at the door with what large plan in the future as his "bold plan" does not work, we make it clear that we will not sit face to face with him," she added. The powerful North Korean leader, second only to her brother Kim Jong Un, also questioned the sincerity of South Korea and its call to improve bilateral ties. She stated that Seoul continues to engage in military exercises with the US whilst failing to stop its civilian activists from flying anti-Pyongyang propaganda leaflets and other “dirty wastes” across their border, according to AP. Also read: Sister says Kim Jong Un was seriously ill during covid outbreak, blames South Korea What did South Korea say? As reported by WION, in a televised speech celebrating the end of Japan's colonisation of the Korean Peninsula, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, earlier this week, offered economic assistance with the caveat that its neighbour abandon the nuclear weapons program. Under the scheme, South Korea was offering large-scale aid in food and health care. Correspondingly, it also promised to modernise the airports, seaports and electricity generation methods in the country. "If North Korea halts its nuclear weapons development and genuinely commits to a process of denuclearization, the South will respond with huge economic rewards that would be provided in phases," said Yoon in the speech. Yoon's statement came a few hours after North Korea fired two cruise missiles ending a month-long lull in Pyongyang's record-breaking spate of weapons tests this year. However, turns out, the olive branch has been refused, that too for the umpteenth time. Read More: North Korea fires two cruise missiles: South Korean defence ministry (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kim Jong Un's sister rejects South Korea's economic assistance plan; will not give up nukes

For decades, there have been extensive sanctions against North Korea. Weapons, raw materials, machines, vehicles, luxury goods, chemicals&nbsp;and textiles. Almost no country in the world trades with this totalitarian regime. In the few countries with which North Korea trades, the nation rather buys than sells, putting itself more into debt internationally. The economy has been stagnating for years, with millions of people living in abject poverty. On the contrary, the supreme ruler of the country, Kim Jong Un, has magnificent monuments built, maintains a gigantic military&nbsp;and finances an expensive nuclear programme. The country's income is not enough for that—so where does all the money come from?

Insurance fraud, cyber-attacks, counterfeit money&nbsp;and modern slavery, North Korea will stop at nothing. North Korea's currency, the won, is not traded at international markets. To buy one or the other tank, you need dollars, yuan, or euros. But how can you earn a lot of money quickly and anonymously. For a long time, it was assumed that there was a separate authority in Pyongyang only for this purpose. The mysterious Room 39. Various leaks and several North Korean refugees today independently confirmed the existence of the bureau. Room 39 is supposed to raise foreign money for the regime, no matter how. At the end of the eighties, the activities of Room 39 were made public for the first time.

While the economy of North Korea is on life support, let's take a look at some infamous life support tactics harnessed by their government over decades.

Supernotes

The USD notes look insanely real, but they are not. There were so many of these notes in circulation—they were so well forged that they were called "supernotes." According to a former North Korean diplomat, they come from North Korea. The North Korean government bought some money printing machines back then, the same model that prints real dollar notes, and the printed supernotes were then given to diplomats. Until today, they were the regime's errand boys with special status, as they deposited the supernotes abroad, for example, in banks and had real dollars paid out. The real notes were then delivered back to Beijing by the case. There are probably still several million of these supernotes in circulation. Whether the money printing machines still print notes today is unclear.

Insurance fraud

In 2005 and 2006, numerous claims were received by international insurers. A helicopter crashed in Pyongyang, two trains were involved in an accident, and a ferry sank. The best part is that all of these were insured abroad. The insurance monopoly, Korea National Insurance Corporation, has received at least 58 million USD from various global insurers for helicopter crashes alone. There is much to suggest, however, that the accidents were only staged, as was reported by The Washington Post in 2009.

Weapons and T-shirts

If your t-shirt says "Made in China," there is a high probability that it was produced in North Korea. Chinese textile companies are increasingly outsourcing their production to cheap factories in North Korea, where the employees often work under inhumane conditions. Nevertheless, in your shirt, you will only find a mention of China while North Korea's export continues. Along with textiles, oil and coal are also assumed to be exported to many neighbouring countries. According to a United Nations report, North Korea also supplies weapons, mostly via international waters, especially to Africa and the Middle East. To remain undetected, the identities of the respective ships are forged, and the radio systems are manipulated. For example, Syria was supplied with at least 40 shiploads between 2012 and 2017, most likely destined for Assad's chemical weapons program. In the Syrian civil war, these chemical weapons killed many innocent people.

Modern Slavery

According to the Global Slavery Index, 2.6 million North Koreans are currently in modern-day slavery. The country most likely engages a part of its population as forced labourers, especially in China, Russia, and Southeast Asia. Some are said to have been used on European construction sites until recently.

The families are left behind to serve as hostages, and for many forced labourers, this is the only reason not to flee to freedom. The United Nations estimates that the North Korean government still receives billions of dollars in income from forced labour alone.

Cyber Attacks

North Korea is infamous for cyber-attacks globally. Not a single North Korean has access to the Internet, yet the country has a Cyber Army in which about 1800 people are supposed to be deployed. An auxiliary office is even said to have been established for this purpose—Bureau 121. In 2016, Bangladesh's central bank was hacked—several million dollars were stolen, and the FBI is convinced that North Korea was involved.

The 2017 WannaCry ransomware infected over 200,000 Windows computers in over 100 countries with the cryptoworm. The ransomware encrypted all the data on these computers and demanded a ransom of 300 USD in Bitcoin to recover the data, or else the data would remain encrypted forever. The attack group did 100 million USD worth of damage, and the American, British, and Australian governments are certain that North Korea was behind the attack.

Black markets

Many of North Korea's illegal activities have not been exclusively controlled by the government since 2000. In the nineties, there was a severe famine in which hundreds of thousands of North Koreans died. At that time, the regime failed to protect its people, and, as a consequence, numerous black markets have developed, and the government could only partially control these. The operators of these black markets often work closely with the corrupt government, and the government always turns a blind eye if a part of the money flows towards the state. On the black markets, not only food, clothes, and everyday objects are traded, but also drugs and foreign currencies.

A large part of this unofficial trade takes place in China. The border in the north is very long and much less guarded than the border with South Korea. Chinese authorities seized 60 million USD worth of drugs from North Korea in 2011. Hundreds of kilogrammes of narcotics produced in the neighbouring country are repeatedly found in China.

It's not all over.

Amid this tremendous economic crisis, Kim Jong Un believes that expanding his nuclear and missile arsenals will convince the United States to engage in "arms control talks." This will mean accepting North Korea as a nuclear power and Pyongyang receiving sanctions relief to revive its economy from life support, but the economy will still be governed by the supreme ruler of North Korea!

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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For decades, there have been extensive sanctions against North Korea. Weapons, raw materials, machines, vehicles, luxury goods, chemicals and textiles. Almost no country in the world trades with this totalitarian regime.

For decades, there have been extensive sanctions against North Korea. Weapons, raw materials, machines, vehicles, luxury goods, chemicals and textiles. Almost no country in the world trades with this totalitarian regime. In the few countries with which North Korea trades, the nation rather buys than sells, putting itself more into debt internationally. The economy has been stagnating for years, with millions of people living in abject poverty. On the contrary, the supreme ruler of the country, Kim Jong Un, has magnificent monuments built, maintains a gigantic military and finances an expensive nuclear programme. The country's income is not enough for that—so where does all the money come from? Insurance fraud, cyber-attacks, counterfeit money and modern slavery, North Korea will stop at nothing. North Korea's currency, the won, is not traded at international markets. To buy one or the other tank, you need dollars, yuan, or euros. But how can you earn a lot of money quickly and anonymously. For a long time, it was assumed that there was a separate authority in Pyongyang only for this purpose. The mysterious Room 39. Various leaks and several North Korean refugees today independently confirmed the existence of the bureau. Room 39 is supposed to raise foreign money for the regime, no matter how. At the end of the eighties, the activities of Room 39 were made public for the first time. While the economy of North Korea is on life support, let's take a look at some infamous life support tactics harnessed by their government over decades. Supernotes The USD notes look insanely real, but they are not. There were so many of these notes in circulation—they were so well forged that they were called "supernotes." According to a former North Korean diplomat, they come from North Korea. The North Korean government bought some money printing machines back then, the same model that prints real dollar notes, and the printed supernotes were then given to diplomats. Until today, they were the regime's errand boys with special status, as they deposited the supernotes abroad, for example, in banks and had real dollars paid out. The real notes were then delivered back to Beijing by the case. There are probably still several million of these supernotes in circulation. Whether the money printing machines still print notes today is unclear. Insurance fraud In 2005 and 2006, numerous claims were received by international insurers. A helicopter crashed in Pyongyang, two trains were involved in an accident, and a ferry sank. The best part is that all of these were insured abroad. The insurance monopoly, Korea National Insurance Corporation, has received at least 58 million USD from various global insurers for helicopter crashes alone. There is much to suggest, however, that the accidents were only staged, as was reported by The Washington Post in 2009. Weapons and T-shirts If your t-shirt says "Made in China," there is a high probability that it was produced in North Korea. Chinese textile companies are increasingly outsourcing their production to cheap factories in North Korea, where the employees often work under inhumane conditions. Nevertheless, in your shirt, you will only find a mention of China while North Korea's export continues. Along with textiles, oil and coal are also assumed to be exported to many neighbouring countries. According to a United Nations report, North Korea also supplies weapons, mostly via international waters, especially to Africa and the Middle East. To remain undetected, the identities of the respective ships are forged, and the radio systems are manipulated. For example, Syria was supplied with at least 40 shiploads between 2012 and 2017, most likely destined for Assad's chemical weapons program. In the Syrian civil war, these chemical weapons killed many innocent people. Modern Slavery According to the Global Slavery Index, 2.6 million North Koreans are currently in modern-day slavery. The country most likely engages a part of its population as forced labourers, especially in China, Russia, and Southeast Asia. Some are said to have been used on European construction sites until recently. The families are left behind to serve as hostages, and for many forced labourers, this is the only reason not to flee to freedom. The United Nations estimates that the North Korean government still receives billions of dollars in income from forced labour alone. Cyber Attacks North Korea is infamous for cyber-attacks globally. Not a single North Korean has access to the Internet, yet the country has a Cyber Army in which about 1800 people are supposed to be deployed. An auxiliary office is even said to have been established for this purpose—Bureau 121. In 2016, Bangladesh's central bank was hacked—several million dollars were stolen, and the FBI is convinced that North Korea was involved. The 2017 WannaCry ransomware infected over 200,000 Windows computers in over 100 countries with the cryptoworm. The ransomware encrypted all the data on these computers and demanded a ransom of 300 USD in Bitcoin to recover the data, or else the data would remain encrypted forever. The attack group did 100 million USD worth of damage, and the American, British, and Australian governments are certain that North Korea was behind the attack. Black markets Many of North Korea's illegal activities have not been exclusively controlled by the government since 2000. In the nineties, there was a severe famine in which hundreds of thousands of North Koreans died. At that time, the regime failed to protect its people, and, as a consequence, numerous black markets have developed, and the government could only partially control these. The operators of these black markets often work closely with the corrupt government, and the government always turns a blind eye if a part of the money flows towards the state. On the black markets, not only food, clothes, and everyday objects are traded, but also drugs and foreign currencies. A large part of this unofficial trade takes place in China. The border in the north is very long and much less guarded than the border with South Korea. Chinese authorities seized 60 million USD worth of drugs from North Korea in 2011. Hundreds of kilogrammes of narcotics produced in the neighbouring country are repeatedly found in China. It's not all over. Amid this tremendous economic crisis, Kim Jong Un believes that expanding his nuclear and missile arsenals will convince the United States to engage in "arms control talks." This will mean accepting North Korea as a nuclear power and Pyongyang receiving sanctions relief to revive its economy from life support, but the economy will still be governed by the supreme ruler of North Korea! (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

The dark economy of North Korea

The United States has issued an alert to the international community including the private sector against North Korea's remote IT workers trying to obtain employment while posing as non-North Korean nationals.

The advisory said freelance recruitment and digital payment platforms including private sector companies may "intentionally or inadvertently" recruit remote IT workers from North Korea which could lead to "intellectual property, data and funds to reputational harm and legal consequences".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-threatens-to-preemptively-use-nuclear-weapons-475140">Also Read:&nbsp; Kim Jong-Un threatens to 'preemptively' use nuclear weapons</a>

The US urged companies to identify "red flags" detailing how it can be done. "The United States is committed to disrupting illicit DPRK revenue-generating activities, which may facilitate criminal activity," it said.

The US government claimed that North Korean IT workers take advantage of existing demands for specific IT skills worldwide to obtain freelance employment from clients.

The revenue raised by illicit employment provides direct support to North Korea's "unlawful weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and ballistic missile programs and threaten international peace and security", the advisory informed.

Watch:&nbsp;Can North Korea battle ‘deadly’ coronavirus wave?

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"North Korea has dispatched thousands of highly skilled IT workers around the world earning revenue for the country that contributes to its weapons programs in violation of US and UN sanctions."

The advisory further said that applications and software span a range of sectors including cryptocurrency, health and fitness, social networking, sports, entertainment and lifestyle.

"In many cases they misrepresent themselves as foreign (non-North Korean) or US-based teleworkers, including by using virtual private networks (VPNs), virtual private servers (VPSs), purchased third-country IP addresses and proxy accounts," the advisory said.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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The United States has issued an alert to the international community including the private sector against North Korea's remote IT workers trying to obtain employment while posing as non-North Korean nationals.

The United States has issued an alert to the international community including the private sector against North Korea's remote IT workers trying to obtain employment while posing as non-North Korean nationals. The advisory said freelance recruitment and digital payment platforms including private sector companies may "intentionally or inadvertently" recruit remote IT workers from North Korea which could lead to "intellectual property, data and funds to reputational harm and legal consequences". Also Read: Kim Jong-Un threatens to 'preemptively' use nuclear weapons The US urged companies to identify "red flags" detailing how it can be done. "The United States is committed to disrupting illicit DPRK revenue-generating activities, which may facilitate criminal activity," it said. The US government claimed that North Korean IT workers take advantage of existing demands for specific IT skills worldwide to obtain freelance employment from clients. The revenue raised by illicit employment provides direct support to North Korea's "unlawful weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and ballistic missile programs and threaten international peace and security", the advisory informed. Watch: Can North Korea battle ‘deadly’ coronavirus wave? "North Korea has dispatched thousands of highly skilled IT workers around the world earning revenue for the country that contributes to its weapons programs in violation of US and UN sanctions." The advisory further said that applications and software span a range of sectors including cryptocurrency, health and fitness, social networking, sports, entertainment and lifestyle. "In many cases they misrepresent themselves as foreign (non-North Korean) or US-based teleworkers, including by using virtual private networks (VPNs), virtual private servers (VPSs), purchased third-country IP addresses and proxy accounts," the advisory said. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE × You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US alert: North Korea's remote IT workers posing as non-nationals, eyeing freelance recruitment

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said his country will maintain its military buildup while asserting that his regime could "preemptively" use nuclear weapons, reports said.

The country's state-run KCNA news media reported Kim told officers that "absolute superiority" should be maintained for North Korean forces and it should "preemptively and thoroughly contain and frustrate all dangerous attempts and threatening moves."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-will-annihilate-south-with-nukes-if-provoked-warns-king-jong-uns-sister-468463">Also Read:&nbsp;</a><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/north-korea-will-annihilate-south-with-nukes-if-provoked-warns-king-jong-uns-sister-468463" hreflang="en">North Korea will ‘annihilate’ South with nukes if provoked, warns King Jong-un’s sister</a>

North Korea had tested a series of missiles at the beginning of the year surprising experts. Kim once again threatened to use atomic weapons if the country's &nbsp;"fundamental interests" were hurt.

The North Korean leader's comment comes even as the Biden administration said it is ready for talks to end Kim's nuclear programme. However, it said there is an "obligation" to address the recent "provocations" including "two recent ICBM launches."

Watch:&nbsp;Kim&nbsp;vows to bolster nuclear weapons

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Reports claim the US is set to tighten restrictions against North Korea with new sanctions on importing oil and export of fuel. However, China and Russia have so far not discussed the proposal at the Security Council.

Reports claim North Korea may be preparing a nuclear test as Kim this week reviewed North Korea's latest missiles during a parade including the intercontinental ballistic missile the Hwasong-17 missile.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said his country will maintain its military buildup while asserting that his regime could "preemptively" use nuclear weapons, reports said.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said his country will maintain its military buildup while asserting that his regime could "preemptively" use nuclear weapons, reports said. The country's state-run KCNA news media reported Kim told officers that "absolute superiority" should be maintained for North Korean forces and it should "preemptively and thoroughly contain and frustrate all dangerous attempts and threatening moves." Also Read: North Korea will ‘annihilate’ South with nukes if provoked, warns King Jong-un’s sister North Korea had tested a series of missiles at the beginning of the year surprising experts. Kim once again threatened to use atomic weapons if the country's "fundamental interests" were hurt. The North Korean leader's comment comes even as the Biden administration said it is ready for talks to end Kim's nuclear programme. However, it said there is an "obligation" to address the recent "provocations" including "two recent ICBM launches." Watch: Kim vows to bolster nuclear weapons Reports claim the US is set to tighten restrictions against North Korea with new sanctions on importing oil and export of fuel. However, China and Russia have so far not discussed the proposal at the Security Council. Reports claim North Korea may be preparing a nuclear test as Kim this week reviewed North Korea's latest missiles during a parade including the intercontinental ballistic missile the Hwasong-17 missile. (With inputs from Agencies) Watch WION Live Here <

North Korean leader threatens to 'preemptively' use nuclear weapons

After conducting a series of missile launches&nbsp;last month, the North Korean regime said it was "shaking the world" with missile tests.

Kim Jong-Un's government had conducted ballistic missile tests at the start of the year. North Korea's foreign ministry said the tests were a "remarkable achievement".

The regime boasted that it was standing up to the might of the United States and was one of the few countries to possess nuclear weapons.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-north-korea-graduated-from-russian-scud-b-to-hypersonic-missiles-442839">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;&nbsp;How North Korea graduated from Russian Scud-B to hypersonic missiles</a>

Last month North Korea had launched at least seven missiles including what it called a hypersonic missile. The tests included &nbsp;Hwasong-12 intermediate-range ballistic missile which can reportedly strike US territory in the Pacific Ocean.

"In today's world where many countries waste time dealing with the United States with submission and blind obedience, there’s only our country on this planet that can shake the world by firing a missile with the US mainland in its range," Kim's regime declared.

The regime also mentioned the Hwasong-15 which can carry nuclear warheads.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-are-the-shrewd-developers-of-north-koreas-secretive-weapons-450675">Also Read:&nbsp;Who are the shrewd developers of North Korea's secretive weapons?</a>

"There are more than 200 countries in the world, but only a few have hydrogen bombs, intercontinental ballistic missiles, and hypersonic missiles," North Korea said.

The talks between Kim and former President Trump had collapsed in 2019 over the denuclearisation issue. President Biden's administration has repeatedly called for dialogue with Kim, however, it has been rejected.

North Korea had earlier confirmed that it had fired the Hwasong-12 missile in its first test since 2017 even as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres denounced the launch as "a clear violation of Security Council resolutions."

(With inputs from Agencies)

After conducting a series of missile launches last month, the North Korean regime said it was "shaking the world" with missile tests. Kim Jong-Un's government had conducted ballistic missile tests at the start of the year.

After conducting a series of missile launches last month, the North Korean regime said it was "shaking the world" with missile tests. Kim Jong-Un's government had conducted ballistic missile tests at the start of the year. North Korea's foreign ministry said the tests were a "remarkable achievement". The regime boasted that it was standing up to the might of the United States and was one of the few countries to possess nuclear weapons. Also Read in Pics: How North Korea graduated from Russian Scud-B to hypersonic missiles Last month North Korea had launched at least seven missiles including what it called a hypersonic missile. The tests included Hwasong-12 intermediate-range ballistic missile which can reportedly strike US territory in the Pacific Ocean. "In today's world where many countries waste time dealing with the United States with submission and blind obedience, there’s only our country on this planet that can shake the world by firing a missile with the US mainland in its range," Kim's regime declared. The regime also mentioned the Hwasong-15 which can carry nuclear warheads. Also Read: Who are the shrewd developers of North Korea's secretive weapons? "There are more than 200 countries in the world, but only a few have hydrogen bombs, intercontinental ballistic missiles, and hypersonic missiles," North Korea said. The talks between Kim and former President Trump had collapsed in 2019 over the denuclearisation issue. President Biden's administration has repeatedly called for dialogue with Kim, however, it has been rejected. North Korea had earlier confirmed that it had fired the Hwasong-12 missile in its first test since 2017 even as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres denounced the launch as "a clear violation of Security Council resolutions." (With inputs from Agencies)

Only our country can shake the world by firing a missile with US in its range: North Korea

After Pyongyang sent a suspected intermediate-range ballistic missile into space on Sunday, the US issued a straightforward call to North Korea to join direct negotiations regarding its nuclear and missile programmes with no preconditions.&nbsp;

A senior Biden administration official told reporters, "We believe it is completely appropriate and completely correct to start having some serious discussions."

The US has frequently sought dialogue with North Korea under Joe Biden's leadership, but has been turned down.

Kim Jong-un, the North Korean leader, met with Donald Trump three times, but none of the meetings resulted in Kim's desire for the sanctions to be lifted.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-takes-toilet-with-him-even-abroad-and-anyone-using-it-will-be-killed-but-why-448133">Also read | North Korea's Kim takes toilet with him even abroad, and anyone using it will be killed. But why?</a>

According to a Biden official, the latest North Korean test is part of an "increasingly destabilising" pattern that is in violation of UN Security Council resolutions and thus international law.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-7th-test-in-2022-north-korea-fires-longest-range-missile-since-2017-448864">Also read | In 7th test in 2022, North Korea fires longest-range missile since 2017</a>

A US official spoke out after North Korea's largest missile test since 2017.

The launch was viewed as a step forward in the process of resuming long-range testing.

"Of course, we're concerned," the US official said, that Pyongyang might do so and end a self-imposed moratorium on nuclear testing.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-latest-missile-test-appears-to-be-its-boldest-in-years-449049">Also read | North Korea’s latest missile test appears to be its boldest in years</a>

"It requires a response," he said. "You will see us taking some steps that are designed to show our commitment to our allies … and at the same time we reiterate our call for diplomacy. We stand ready and we are very serious about trying to have discussions that address concerns on both sides."&nbsp;

Pyongyang's playbook of brinkmanship to gain concessions appears to have been revived with the missile fired on Sunday, which appeared to be the most powerful since Biden took office.

The missile was fired on a high trajectory, allegedly to avoid neighbouring countries' territorial territories, reaching a maximum altitude of 2,000 kilometres (1,242 miles) and travelling 800 kilometres (497 miles) before landing in the sea, according to the Japanese and South Korean forces.

The flight details point to North Korea's longest-range missile since 2017, when it sent two ballistic missiles over Japan and three more that had the ability to strike deep into the United States.

This month, North Korea has launched seven missiles.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After Pyongyang sent a suspected intermediate-range ballistic missile into space on Sunday, the US issued a straightforward call to North Korea to join direct negotiations regarding its nuclear and missile programmes with no preconditions.

After Pyongyang sent a suspected intermediate-range ballistic missile into space on Sunday, the US issued a straightforward call to North Korea to join direct negotiations regarding its nuclear and missile programmes with no preconditions. A senior Biden administration official told reporters, "We believe it is completely appropriate and completely correct to start having some serious discussions." The US has frequently sought dialogue with North Korea under Joe Biden's leadership, but has been turned down. Kim Jong-un, the North Korean leader, met with Donald Trump three times, but none of the meetings resulted in Kim's desire for the sanctions to be lifted. Also read | North Korea's Kim takes toilet with him even abroad, and anyone using it will be killed. But why? According to a Biden official, the latest North Korean test is part of an "increasingly destabilising" pattern that is in violation of UN Security Council resolutions and thus international law. Also read | In 7th test in 2022, North Korea fires longest-range missile since 2017 A US official spoke out after North Korea's largest missile test since 2017. The launch was viewed as a step forward in the process of resuming long-range testing. "Of course, we're concerned," the US official said, that Pyongyang might do so and end a self-imposed moratorium on nuclear testing. Also read | North Korea’s latest missile test appears to be its boldest in years "It requires a response," he said. "You will see us taking some steps that are designed to show our commitment to our allies … and at the same time we reiterate our call for diplomacy. We stand ready and we are very serious about trying to have discussions that address concerns on both sides." Pyongyang's playbook of brinkmanship to gain concessions appears to have been revived with the missile fired on Sunday, which appeared to be the most powerful since Biden took office. The missile was fired on a high trajectory, allegedly to avoid neighbouring countries' territorial territories, reaching a maximum altitude of 2,000 kilometres (1,242 miles) and travelling 800 kilometres (497 miles) before landing in the sea, according to the Japanese and South Korean forces. The flight details point to North Korea's longest-range missile since 2017, when it sent two ballistic missiles over Japan and three more that had the ability to strike deep into the United States. This month, North Korea has launched seven missiles. (With inputs from agencies)

After latest missile test by Pyongyang, US urges North Korea to join direct talks 

A female North Korean soldier describes the misery she faces in Kim Jong Un's army, where she faces sexual assault, abortions without anaesthesia, and malnutrition.

A former soldier described the difficult life she and other female soldiers had in the army.

According to her, up to 70% of women are subjected to sexual assault or harassment.

They get by on a few spoonfuls of corn each day and are subjected to group punishments.

Women are compelled to use sanitary pads made from worn footwraps. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-10-years-in-power-a-look-back-at-his-reign-in-north-korea-437013">Also read | Kim Jong Un's 10 years in power: A look back at his reign in North Korea</a>

According to an exiled North Korean, sexual torture, abortions without anaesthesia, and starvation rations are among the horrors women suffer in Kim Jong Un's army.

Jennifer Kim, a former soldier, said female combatants were forced to use damp footwraps as sanitary pads and were subjected to cruel and unusual collective punishments.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Gravitas: Inside North Korea: A defector's horror story

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-inside-north-korea-a-defectors-horror-story-439131/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

One punishment consisted of soaking the hands in cold water and then hanging from an iron rod that froze to the palms, tearing the flesh off when freed.

She believed that 70 percent of women in North Korea's army, including herself, had been sexually assaulted or harassed.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Gravitas: Is North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un sending an SOS signal to the world?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-north-korean-dictator-kim-jong-un-sending-an-sos-signal-to-the-world-395227/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to a report by Dailymail, Jennifer Kim, 23, said, "If I refuse his request, I can't become a member of the Workers' Party of Korea.&nbsp;

If I return to society without being able to attend the party, I'm perceived as a problem child and I will be stigmatised for the rest of my life.

That means you won't be able to get a good job, and it will be a problem when you try to marry. What could I have chosen?

In the end, I was sexually assaulted by him.

(With inputs from agencies)

A female North Korean soldier describes the misery she faces in Kim Jong Un's army, where she faces sexual assault, abortions without anaesthesia, and malnutrition.

A female North Korean soldier describes the misery she faces in Kim Jong Un's army, where she faces sexual assault, abortions without anaesthesia, and malnutrition. A former soldier described the difficult life she and other female soldiers had in the army. According to her, up to 70% of women are subjected to sexual assault or harassment. They get by on a few spoonfuls of corn each day and are subjected to group punishments. Women are compelled to use sanitary pads made from worn footwraps. Also read | Kim Jong Un's 10 years in power: A look back at his reign in North Korea According to an exiled North Korean, sexual torture, abortions without anaesthesia, and starvation rations are among the horrors women suffer in Kim Jong Un's army. Jennifer Kim, a former soldier, said female combatants were forced to use damp footwraps as sanitary pads and were subjected to cruel and unusual collective punishments. Watch | Gravitas: Inside North Korea: A defector's horror story One punishment consisted of soaking the hands in cold water and then hanging from an iron rod that froze to the palms, tearing the flesh off when freed. She believed that 70 percent of women in North Korea's army, including herself, had been sexually assaulted or harassed. Watch | Gravitas: Is North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un sending an SOS signal to the world? According to a report by Dailymail, Jennifer Kim, 23, said, "If I refuse his request, I can't become a member of the Workers' Party of Korea. If I return to society without being able to attend the party, I'm perceived as a problem child and I will be stigmatised for the rest of my life. That means you won't be able to get a good job, and it will be a problem when you try to marry. What could I have chosen? In the end, I was sexually assaulted by him. (With inputs from agencies)

Women face sexual abuse, abortions, and starvation in Kim Jong-un’s army

From Friday forward, people of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, generally known as North Korea, are prohibited from smiling, shopping, or drinking as part of an 11-day mourning period commemorating the death of former leader Kim Jong-il.

From 1994 to 2011, North Korea was controlled by Kim Jong-il.

On December 17, 2011, he died of a heart attack at the age of 69.

Kim Jong-un, his youngest son, took over as his successor.

All leisure activities have been forbidden for the next 11 days, according to Radio Free Asia.

Anyone who disobeys the rule will be arrested, just like they are every year.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-10-years-in-power-a-look-back-at-his-reign-in-north-korea-437013">Also read | Kim Jong Un's 10 years in power: A look back at his reign in North Korea</a>

"Even if your family member dies during the mourning period, you are not allowed to cry out loud, and the body must be taken out after it's over. People cannot even celebrate their own birthdays if they fall within the mourning period, " Radio Free Asia quoted a resident of North Korea.

Every year since his passing, Kim has paid his respects at his father's memorial.

Watch | Gravitas:&nbsp;North Koreans cannot laugh for 11 days

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-north-koreans-can-not-laugh-for-11-days-437788/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Kim Jong Un paid his respects at a tomb where Kim Jong Il's embalmed body, together with that of Kim Il Sung, is on display.

During past milestone anniversaries, such as the first and fifth, Kim Jong Un called national meetings to honour his father.

Because it is the 10th anniversary of his death, the mourning period has been extended to 11 days this year.

Every year, a 10-day period of mourning is commemorated. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/kim-jong-uns-bizarre-food-strategy-orders-north-koreans-to-eat-delicious-black-swans-425789">Also read | Kim Jong-un's bizarre food strategy: Orders North Koreans to eat 'delicious' black swans</a>

This time, state-run media carried pieces honouring Kim Jong Il and urging greater unity behind Kim Jong Un, while state television broadcast propagandist music and documentaries about the late leader.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

From Friday forward, people of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, generally known as North Korea, are prohibited from smiling, shopping, or drinking as part of an 11-day mourning period commemorating the death of former leader Kim Jong-il.

From Friday forward, people of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, generally known as North Korea, are prohibited from smiling, shopping, or drinking as part of an 11-day mourning period commemorating the death of former leader Kim Jong-il. From 1994 to 2011, North Korea was controlled by Kim Jong-il. On December 17, 2011, he died of a heart attack at the age of 69. Kim Jong-un, his youngest son, took over as his successor. All leisure activities have been forbidden for the next 11 days, according to Radio Free Asia. Anyone who disobeys the rule will be arrested, just like they are every year. Also read | Kim Jong Un's 10 years in power: A look back at his reign in North Korea "Even if your family member dies during the mourning period, you are not allowed to cry out loud, and the body must be taken out after it's over. People cannot even celebrate their own birthdays if they fall within the mourning period, " Radio Free Asia quoted a resident of North Korea. Every year since his passing, Kim has paid his respects at his father's memorial. Watch | Gravitas: North Koreans cannot laugh for 11 days Kim Jong Un paid his respects at a tomb where Kim Jong Il's embalmed body, together with that of Kim Il Sung, is on display. During past milestone anniversaries, such as the first and fifth, Kim Jong Un called national meetings to honour his father. Because it is the 10th anniversary of his death, the mourning period has been extended to 11 days this year. Every year, a 10-day period of mourning is commemorated. Also read | Kim Jong-un's bizarre food strategy: Orders North Koreans to eat 'delicious' black swans This time, state-run media carried pieces honouring Kim Jong Il and urging greater unity behind Kim Jong Un, while state television broadcast propagandist music and documentaries about the late leader. (With inputs from agencies)

No laughing, no drinking, and no shopping in North Korea for 11 days. Here's why

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is celebrating his tenth year in office this week.He is now one of the world's most experienced leaders. 
 
Kim Jong Un is one of the few world leaders who is both highly observed and shrouded in mystery. 
 
Since taking power in 2011, the dictator has been surrounded by political and diplomatic intrigue. 
 
Kim has presented several faces to an insatiably curious world since becoming supreme power a decade ago, but while the image evolves, perhaps the most illuminating way to examine Kim is through his constant pursuit of a nuclear weapons programme aimed against America and its allies. 
 
Unlike most of his contemporaries, Kim has no qualms about elections or term limits, and with his age on his side (he is just in his late 30s), he may expect to stay in government for decades if his health holds up. 
 
Let's take a look at his career's tendencies and most talked-about behaviours:&nbsp; 
 
Obsession with nuclear weapons 
 
According to some estimates, Kim now has a nuclear arsenal of up to 60 nuclear weapons, with the ability to add up to 18 more per year. This has allowed him to consolidate domestic unity and gain some of the worldwide status he's long desired. 
 
Pyongyang has also perplexed Washington and its allies by constructing what Pyongyang thinks is a real deterrent to US hostility. 
 
Observers argue that despite the fact that U.N. sanctions over the weapons build-up and pandemic-related challenges are putting Kim's leadership to the test, the weapons are no closer to being taken away by outside negotiators than they were when Kim's father, Kim Jong Il, died on Dec. 17, 2011. 
 
Kim has staged an unusually large number of weapons tests. And four of North Korea’s six nuclear test explosions and all of its three intercontinental ballistic missile tests have happened during Kim’s rule. 
 
Executions and purges in the public eye 
 
Instead, Kim engineered a series of high-profile executions and purges, removing prospective challengers and restoring the kind of absolute control held by his father, Kim Jong Il, and grandfather, Kim Il Sung, the state's founder. 
 
In a 2016 investigation, a think tank run by South Korea's spy agency claimed that during Kim's first five years in power, he executed or purged around 340 people. 
 
This included the assassination of his powerful uncle, Jang Song Thaek, in 2013 and the purge of military head Ri Yong Ho in 2012, both of whom assisted Kim in gaining power. 
 
Watch | Gravitas: Is North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un sending an SOS signal to the world?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-north-korean-dictator-kim-jong-un-sending-an-sos-signal-to-the-world-395227/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

 
Diplomatic Failure on a Global Scale 
 
When Kim failed to persuade Trump to lift strong UN sanctions imposed after his series of nuclear tests in 2016-17, international diplomacy collapsed in 2019. 
 
Since then, Kim has threatened to expand his nuclear arsenal and deploy high-tech weapons against the US and its allies. 
 
A second Trump-Kim meeting in Hanoi failed due to disagreements about sanctions relief and what Pyongyang would be ready to give up in exchange. 
 
Trump flew out of Hanoi fast, and Kim returned home empty-handed after a 60-hour train ride. 
 
A follow-up summit in the Demilitarized Zone, which separates the Korean peninsula from the rest of the world, failed to break the impasse. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/kim-jong-uns-bizarre-food-strategy-orders-north-koreans-to-eat-delicious-black-swans-425789">Also read | Kim Jong-un's bizarre food strategy: Orders North Koreans to eat 'delicious' black swans</a> 
 
Failure of the economy 
 
Even before the sanctions, North Korea's state-run economy had been mismanaged for decades, and its people had been suffering from chronic food shortages. 
 
In terms of economics, North Korea is at the bottom of the international food chain.&nbsp; 
 
Many foreigners questioned whether North Korea could survive with an unproven, little-known 27-year-old in leadership in late 2011. 
 
Because of his infancy and childhood education in Switzerland, many believed that Kim would push for economic reforms and possibly denuclearization. 
 
Some speculated that Kim was merely a figurehead, reliant on senior officials appointed by his father, and that North Korea would experience political unrest. 
 
In the first several years, Kim also left aside his father's characteristic "military-first" strategy, restoring the ruling Workers' Party's customary control over the army, and engineering minor but steady economic growth.&nbsp; 
 
North Korea is already dealing with food shortages, flooding, and a faltering economy. The most pressing question is how Kim Jong Un will keep the country running despite these flaws. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is celebrating his tenth year in office this week.He is now one of the world's most experienced leaders. Kim Jong Un is one of the few world leaders who is both highly observed and shrouded in mystery.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is celebrating his tenth year in office this week.He is now one of the world's most experienced leaders. Kim Jong Un is one of the few world leaders who is both highly observed and shrouded in mystery. Since taking power in 2011, the dictator has been surrounded by political and diplomatic intrigue. Kim has presented several faces to an insatiably curious world since becoming supreme power a decade ago, but while the image evolves, perhaps the most illuminating way to examine Kim is through his constant pursuit of a nuclear weapons programme aimed against America and its allies. Unlike most of his contemporaries, Kim has no qualms about elections or term limits, and with his age on his side (he is just in his late 30s), he may expect to stay in government for decades if his health holds up. Let's take a look at his career's tendencies and most talked-about behaviours: Obsession with nuclear weapons According to some estimates, Kim now has a nuclear arsenal of up to 60 nuclear weapons, with the ability to add up to 18 more per year. This has allowed him to consolidate domestic unity and gain some of the worldwide status he's long desired. Pyongyang has also perplexed Washington and its allies by constructing what Pyongyang thinks is a real deterrent to US hostility. Observers argue that despite the fact that U.N. sanctions over the weapons build-up and pandemic-related challenges are putting Kim's leadership to the test, the weapons are no closer to being taken away by outside negotiators than they were when Kim's father, Kim Jong Il, died on Dec. 17, 2011. Kim has staged an unusually large number of weapons tests. And four of North Korea’s six nuclear test explosions and all of its three intercontinental ballistic missile tests have happened during Kim’s rule. Executions and purges in the public eye Instead, Kim engineered a series of high-profile executions and purges, removing prospective challengers and restoring the kind of absolute control held by his father, Kim Jong Il, and grandfather, Kim Il Sung, the state's founder. In a 2016 investigation, a think tank run by South Korea's spy agency claimed that during Kim's first five years in power, he executed or purged around 340 people. This included the assassination of his powerful uncle, Jang Song Thaek, in 2013 and the purge of military head Ri Yong Ho in 2012, both of whom assisted Kim in gaining power. Watch | Gravitas: Is North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un sending an SOS signal to the world? Diplomatic Failure on a Global Scale When Kim failed to persuade Trump to lift strong UN sanctions imposed after his series of nuclear tests in 2016-17, international diplomacy collapsed in 2019. Since then, Kim has threatened to expand his nuclear arsenal and deploy high-tech weapons against the US and its allies. A second Trump-Kim meeting in Hanoi failed due to disagreements about sanctions relief and what Pyongyang would be ready to give up in exchange. Trump flew out of Hanoi fast, and Kim returned home empty-handed after a 60-hour train ride. A follow-up summit in the Demilitarized Zone, which separates the Korean peninsula from the rest of the world, failed to break the impasse. Also read | Kim Jong-un's bizarre food strategy: Orders North Koreans to eat 'delicious' black swans Failure of the economy Even before the sanctions, North Korea's state-run economy had been mismanaged for decades, and its people had been suffering from chronic food shortages. In terms of economics, North Korea is at the bottom of the international food chain. Many foreigners questioned whether North Korea could survive with an unproven, little-known 27-year-old in leadership in late 2011. Because of his infancy and childhood education in Switzerland, many believed that Kim would push for economic reforms and possibly denuclearization. Some speculated that Kim was merely a figurehead, reliant on senior officials appointed by his father, and that North Korea would experience political unrest. In the first several years, Kim also left aside his father's characteristic "military-first" strategy, restoring the ruling Workers' Party's customary control over the army, and engineering minor but steady economic growth. North Korea is already dealing with food shortages, flooding, and a faltering economy. The most pressing question is how Kim Jong Un will keep the country running despite these flaws. (With inputs from agencies)

Kim Jong Un's 10 years in power: A look back at his reign in North Korea

In his first public appearance in over a month, North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un visited the northwestern city of Samjiyon, near China border, where his signature construction project is underway.

The North’s Korea Central News Agency (KCNA) said Kim visited the northern alpine city in Ryanggang Province to inspect progress on the final and the “third stage” of the development project, which is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

While&nbsp;KCNA did not give further details as to when Kim&nbsp;made the visit, it is the first report of public activity by the leader in 35 days, his longest absence since 2014. He last delivered a speech at an arms exhibition on October 11.

Kim praised officials for their “lofty loyalty, strong will and sweat” to push forward with the project and said the four-year construction proved “the iron will of our state to achieve prosperity our own way and with our own efforts”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-food-crisis-leader-kim-jong-un-asks-people-to-eat-less-until-2025-424602">North Korea food crisis: Leader Kim Jong Un asks people to 'eat less' until 2025</a>

Located at the foot of Mount Paekdu, the highest peak on the Korean Peninsula, Samjiyon is known to be the birthplace of Kim Jong-un's late father and former leader Kim Jong-il.

The Samjiyon development was supposed to be completed in 2020 in time for the 75th anniversary of the ruling party's foundation, but failed to meet the deadline amid crippling sanctions and a prolonged border closure due to COVID-19.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-deliberately-faked-his-death-to-expose-traitors-in-his-circle-report-296811">Kim Jong-un deliberately faked his death to expose traitors in his circle: Report</a>

The mass-scale project includes "the construction of dwelling houses for thousands of families, public and production buildings, educational facilities, a water supply and drainage system, roads, and afforestation and greening and power grid system". according to the KCNA.

North Korea&nbsp;elevated the status of Samjiyon from a county to a city after celebrating the completion of a major construction there in 2019 and has called for transforming the area into the "wealthiest" region in the country.

The latest visit marked Kim Jong-un's first public appearance reported in state media in more than a month, after he addressed a defence exhibition on October 11.

(With reports from agencies)

In his first public appearance in over a month, North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un visited the northwestern city of Samjiyon, near China border, where his signature construction project is underway.

In his first public appearance in over a month, North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un visited the northwestern city of Samjiyon, near China border, where his signature construction project is underway. The North’s Korea Central News Agency (KCNA) said Kim visited the northern alpine city in Ryanggang Province to inspect progress on the final and the “third stage” of the development project, which is expected to be completed by the end of this year. While KCNA did not give further details as to when Kim made the visit, it is the first report of public activity by the leader in 35 days, his longest absence since 2014. He last delivered a speech at an arms exhibition on October 11. Kim praised officials for their “lofty loyalty, strong will and sweat” to push forward with the project and said the four-year construction proved “the iron will of our state to achieve prosperity our own way and with our own efforts”. Also read | North Korea food crisis: Leader Kim Jong Un asks people to 'eat less' until 2025 Located at the foot of Mount Paekdu, the highest peak on the Korean Peninsula, Samjiyon is known to be the birthplace of Kim Jong-un's late father and former leader Kim Jong-il. The Samjiyon development was supposed to be completed in 2020 in time for the 75th anniversary of the ruling party's foundation, but failed to meet the deadline amid crippling sanctions and a prolonged border closure due to COVID-19. Also read | Kim Jong-un deliberately faked his death to expose traitors in his circle: Report The mass-scale project includes "the construction of dwelling houses for thousands of families, public and production buildings, educational facilities, a water supply and drainage system, roads, and afforestation and greening and power grid system". according to the KCNA. North Korea elevated the status of Samjiyon from a county to a city after celebrating the completion of a major construction there in 2019 and has called for transforming the area into the "wealthiest" region in the country. The latest visit marked Kim Jong-un's first public appearance reported in state media in more than a month, after he addressed a defence exhibition on October 11. (With reports from agencies)

North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un makes first public appearance in a month

North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un has lost about 20 kilograms of weight, but remains healthy, South Korea’s spy agency told the lawmakers.

The National Intelligence Service claimed that he has been focussing on boosting public loyalty to him as the country faces widespread hunger and worsening economic problems.

The agency also dismissed rumours that the thinner Kim was actually a body double of the 37-year-old, calling the allegations as “groundless”.

According to reports, the spy agency gave the assessment during a closed-door parliamentary briefing on Thursday, saying it used artificial intelligence techniques, an analysis of super-resolution video of Kim and other methods to investigate Kim’s condition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-deliberately-faked-his-death-to-expose-traitors-in-his-circle-report-296811">Kim Jong-un deliberately faked his death to expose traitors in his circle: Report</a>

Kim’s appearance came into the limelight after the North Korean media released photos and videos of him, who seemed to appear thinner than before.

Despite Kim's thinner appearance, North Korean observers have said that the 37-year-old has no apparent health problems, and his weight loss is likely the result of his efforts to improve his physique.

They noted that he has continued his regular public activities and no unusual developments have been seen in North Korean videos.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-food-crisis-leader-kim-jong-un-asks-people-to-eat-less-until-2025-424602">North Korea food crisis: Leader Kim Jong Un asks people to 'eat less' until 2025</a>

The 37-year-old leader hasn't publicly anointed a successor and some experts say abrupt incapacitation could trigger chaos in the impoverished nuclear-armed country.

According to AP, the NIS told the parliamentary session that Kim’s weight has fallen from about 140 kg to 120 kg. The NIS has previously said Kim is about 170 centimetres (5 feet, 8 inches) tall.

Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-hilarious-video-of-man-getting-kim-jong-un-style-haircut-goes-viral-412878">Hilarious video of man getting Kim Jong-un-style haircut goes viral</a>

According to AP, lawmaker Ha Tae-keung, quoting the NIS, said North Korea has begun using the term “Kimjongunism,” a political ideology named after Kim Jong Un that is independent of existing ideologies named after his father and grandfather, “Kimjongilism” and “Kimilsungism.”

After about 10 years in office, Kim is struggling to overcome what appears to be the toughest period of his rule due to economic hardships worsened by the coronavirus pandemic.

Watch

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According to the NIS, North Korea’s annual trade with China, its main ally and economic lifeline, declined by two-thirds to $185 million through September this year compared to the previous year.

North Korean officials are struggling to deal with soaring prices of goods and shortages of medicine and other essential supplies that have accelerated the spread of water-borne diseases such as typhoid fever. The country has also been unable to import the paper and ink it uses to print banknotes, forcing North Korean officials to issue temporary currency, lawmaker Ha said, quoting the NIS briefing.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un has lost about 20 kilograms of weight, but remains healthy, South Korea’s spy agency told the lawmakers. The National Intelligence Service claimed that he has been focussing on boosting public loyalty to him as the country faces widespread hunger and worsening economic problems.

North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un has lost about 20 kilograms of weight, but remains healthy, South Korea’s spy agency told the lawmakers. The National Intelligence Service claimed that he has been focussing on boosting public loyalty to him as the country faces widespread hunger and worsening economic problems. The agency also dismissed rumours that the thinner Kim was actually a body double of the 37-year-old, calling the allegations as “groundless”. According to reports, the spy agency gave the assessment during a closed-door parliamentary briefing on Thursday, saying it used artificial intelligence techniques, an analysis of super-resolution video of Kim and other methods to investigate Kim’s condition. Also read | Kim Jong-un deliberately faked his death to expose traitors in his circle: Report Kim’s appearance came into the limelight after the North Korean media released photos and videos of him, who seemed to appear thinner than before. Despite Kim's thinner appearance, North Korean observers have said that the 37-year-old has no apparent health problems, and his weight loss is likely the result of his efforts to improve his physique. They noted that he has continued his regular public activities and no unusual developments have been seen in North Korean videos. Also read | North Korea food crisis: Leader Kim Jong Un asks people to 'eat less' until 2025 The 37-year-old leader hasn't publicly anointed a successor and some experts say abrupt incapacitation could trigger chaos in the impoverished nuclear-armed country. According to AP, the NIS told the parliamentary session that Kim’s weight has fallen from about 140 kg to 120 kg. The NIS has previously said Kim is about 170 centimetres (5 feet, 8 inches) tall. Watch: Hilarious video of man getting Kim Jong-un-style haircut goes viral According to AP, lawmaker Ha Tae-keung, quoting the NIS, said North Korea has begun using the term “Kimjongunism,” a political ideology named after Kim Jong Un that is independent of existing ideologies named after his father and grandfather, “Kimjongilism” and “Kimilsungism.” After about 10 years in office, Kim is struggling to overcome what appears to be the toughest period of his rule due to economic hardships worsened by the coronavirus pandemic. Watch According to the NIS, North Korea’s annual trade with China, its main ally and economic lifeline, declined by two-thirds to $185 million through September this year compared to the previous year. North Korean officials are struggling to deal with soaring prices of goods and shortages of medicine and other essential supplies that have accelerated the spread of water-borne diseases such as typhoid fever. The country has also been unable to import the paper and ink it uses to print banknotes, forcing North Korean officials to issue temporary currency, lawmaker Ha said, quoting the NIS briefing. (With inputs from agencies)

Kim Jong-un lost 20 kgs, not using body double, says South Korean spy agency

North Korea launched one ballistic missile into the Sea of Japan, according to South Korean news agency Yonhap, citing the Republic of Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS).

Earlier, the South Korean military stated that North Korea launched an unidentified missile into the Sea of Japan, but provided no additional details. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fired-ballistic-missiles-from-train-for-the-first-time-ever-413670">Also read | North Korea fired ballistic missiles from train for the first time ever</a> 
 
The Japanese government cautioned that the projectile shot by North Korea may be a ballistic missile, and the Japanese Coast Guard issued cautions to ships in conjunction with the probable test.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | North Korean envoy defends missile test in UNGA

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The Japanese coast guard issued a marine safety alert to ships, although it was unclear where the weapon landed.

The South Korean presidential office planned to conduct a meeting of the national security council later in the day to discuss the launch.

After a months-long calm, North Korea resumed its nuclear tests while making conditional peace overtures to Seoul, resuming a pattern of pushing South Korea to achieve what it wants from the US.

Sung Kim, President Joe Biden's special envoy for North Korea, is scheduled to meet with US allies in Seoul in the coming days to discuss the chances of resuming negotiations with North Korea.&nbsp;

Nuclear talks between Washington and Pyongyang have been deadlocked for more than two years due to differences about trading the lifting of crushing US-led sanctions on North Korea in exchange for the North's disarmament measures.

His government has so far refused the Biden administration's overtures to begin a conversation without preconditions, claiming that Washington must first renounce its "hostile policy," which the North mostly refers to sanctions and joint military drills between the US and South Korea.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea launched one ballistic missile into the Sea of Japan, according to South Korean news agency Yonhap, citing the Republic of Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS).

North Korea launched one ballistic missile into the Sea of Japan, according to South Korean news agency Yonhap, citing the Republic of Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). Earlier, the South Korean military stated that North Korea launched an unidentified missile into the Sea of Japan, but provided no additional details. Also read | North Korea fired ballistic missiles from train for the first time ever The Japanese government cautioned that the projectile shot by North Korea may be a ballistic missile, and the Japanese Coast Guard issued cautions to ships in conjunction with the probable test. Watch | North Korean envoy defends missile test in UNGA The Japanese coast guard issued a marine safety alert to ships, although it was unclear where the weapon landed. The South Korean presidential office planned to conduct a meeting of the national security council later in the day to discuss the launch. After a months-long calm, North Korea resumed its nuclear tests while making conditional peace overtures to Seoul, resuming a pattern of pushing South Korea to achieve what it wants from the US. Sung Kim, President Joe Biden's special envoy for North Korea, is scheduled to meet with US allies in Seoul in the coming days to discuss the chances of resuming negotiations with North Korea. Nuclear talks between Washington and Pyongyang have been deadlocked for more than two years due to differences about trading the lifting of crushing US-led sanctions on North Korea in exchange for the North's disarmament measures. His government has so far refused the Biden administration's overtures to begin a conversation without preconditions, claiming that Washington must first renounce its "hostile policy," which the North mostly refers to sanctions and joint military drills between the US and South Korea. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea fired one ballistic missile towards the sea of Japan: Reports

At a time when reports have claimed North Korea is reeling under financial crisis, the country seems to be primarily focussed on long-range cruise missiles. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Is it just to show muscle power or to depict advancements being carried out in the country? &nbsp;

Let’s explore the Kim Jong-un-led North Korean government’s love for missiles. &nbsp;

For years, the country has been developing missile technology even after facing financial issues, which are being imposed by different organisations around the world due to this endeavour. &nbsp;

Watch | WION Live Broadcast: N Korea Missile Test 'threat To Neighbours'

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In a recent announcement, the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) has said it successfully test-fired new long-range cruise missiles over the weekend. &nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the report, the country's Academy of Defense Science test-fired the missiles on September 11 and 12. The development of the weapons was being done for two years. &nbsp;

“The weapons demonstrate another effective deterrence means for more reliably guaranteeing the security of our state and strongly containing the military maneuvers of the hostile forces against the DPRK," the agency said. It used the acronym for North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. &nbsp;

It is self-explanatory that the country deems them to be a guarantee of the security of the country against all odds. But the real question is that do only weapons safeguard a country? &nbsp;

The cruise missiles are propelled by jet engines. They stay closer to the ground like an aircraft, making them harder to detect. Several cruise missiles are generally not designed to carry nuclear warheads. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-may-have-staged-night-time-military-parade-report-411747" hreflang="en">North Korea may have staged night-time military parade: Report</a>

As per the KCNA, the new missiles travelled for 7,580 seconds along oval and figure-eight flight orbits in the air above the territorial land and waters of North Korea. It hit target 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) away. &nbsp;

What makes it troublesome is that these missiles seem to be able to reach targets throughout Japan. Earlier this year, Pyongyang test-fired a missile that flew around 450 kilometers. &nbsp;

Over the last few years, North Korea has been showing off new and untested weaponry in its military parades. It seems to be a way to show strength of the country, which has been isolated in the region for a long time. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

At a time when reports have claimed North Korea is reeling under financial crisis, the country seems to be primarily focussed on long-range cruise missiles. Is it just to show muscle power or to depict advancements being carried out in the country?

At a time when reports have claimed North Korea is reeling under financial crisis, the country seems to be primarily focussed on long-range cruise missiles. Is it just to show muscle power or to depict advancements being carried out in the country? Let’s explore the Kim Jong-un-led North Korean government’s love for missiles. For years, the country has been developing missile technology even after facing financial issues, which are being imposed by different organisations around the world due to this endeavour. Watch | WION Live Broadcast: N Korea Missile Test 'threat To Neighbours' × In a recent announcement, the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) has said it successfully test-fired new long-range cruise missiles over the weekend. According to the report, the country's Academy of Defense Science test-fired the missiles on September 11 and 12. The development of the weapons was being done for two years. “The weapons demonstrate another effective deterrence means for more reliably guaranteeing the security of our state and strongly containing the military maneuvers of the hostile forces against the DPRK," the agency said. It used the acronym for North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. It is self-explanatory that the country deems them to be a guarantee of the security of the country against all odds. But the real question is that do only weapons safeguard a country? The cruise missiles are propelled by jet engines. They stay closer to the ground like an aircraft, making them harder to detect. Several cruise missiles are generally not designed to carry nuclear warheads. Also Read | North Korea may have staged night-time military parade: Report As per the KCNA, the new missiles travelled for 7,580 seconds along oval and figure-eight flight orbits in the air above the territorial land and waters of North Korea. It hit target 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) away. What makes it troublesome is that these missiles seem to be able to reach targets throughout Japan. Earlier this year, Pyongyang test-fired a missile that flew around 450 kilometers. Over the last few years, North Korea has been showing off new and untested weaponry in its military parades. It seems to be a way to show strength of the country, which has been isolated in the region for a long time. (With inputs from agencies)

Why is North Korea obsessed with missiles?  

After suffering starvation and repression for decades, Japanese national Hiroko Saito, who escaped North Korea, has sued the Kim Jong-un-led government. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Saito says in the 1960s, she and 97,000 others were deceived into relocating to the North with promises of "paradise on Earth". &nbsp;&nbsp;

Saito and five others are taking part in a lawsuit at the Tokyo District Court. It is due to rule on October 14 over the responsibility of the North Korean government for their ordeal. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Japan upgrades Q2 GDP, with help of solid expenditure

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Although plaintiffs are also demanding compensation from the Kim Jong-un government, Saito says her campaign is not about the money. &nbsp;

The escapee said, "We had been told we were going to paradise on Earth, that we would have our own apartment, jobs and that hospitals and schools were free. They told us we did not need to take anything with us, that everything would be provided. They kept repeating that it was paradise." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spanish-teenager-sues-health-trust-for-almost-3-million-after-getting-swapped-at-birth-411580" hreflang="en">Spanish teenager sues health trust for almost $3 million after getting swapped at birth</a>

"Then we arrived and I saw the boy from the ship. He only had a tattered old shirt and nothing on the lower half of his body. He looked thin and poor. It was at that moment that I knew. I knew we had been deceived," 80-year-old Saito told DW. &nbsp;

At the arrival with hundreds of returnees and their families from Japan at Chongjin in 1961, Saito was greeted by poverty-stricken residents and heavily armed soldiers. The situation had worsened soon in the country. &nbsp;

After four decades of hunger, repression and violence, she was finally able to escape over the border into China and, ultimately, return to Japan in 2001.&nbsp;

After suffering starvation and repression for decades, Japanese national Hiroko Saito, who escaped North Korea, has sued the Kim Jong-un-led government. Saito says in the 1960s, she and 97,000 others were deceived into relocating to the North with promises of "paradise on Earth".

After suffering starvation and repression for decades, Japanese national Hiroko Saito, who escaped North Korea, has sued the Kim Jong-un-led government. Saito says in the 1960s, she and 97,000 others were deceived into relocating to the North with promises of "paradise on Earth". Saito and five others are taking part in a lawsuit at the Tokyo District Court. It is due to rule on October 14 over the responsibility of the North Korean government for their ordeal. Watch: Japan upgrades Q2 GDP, with help of solid expenditure × Although plaintiffs are also demanding compensation from the Kim Jong-un government, Saito says her campaign is not about the money. The escapee said, "We had been told we were going to paradise on Earth, that we would have our own apartment, jobs and that hospitals and schools were free. They told us we did not need to take anything with us, that everything would be provided. They kept repeating that it was paradise." Also Read: Spanish teenager sues health trust for almost $3 million after getting swapped at birth "Then we arrived and I saw the boy from the ship. He only had a tattered old shirt and nothing on the lower half of his body. He looked thin and poor. It was at that moment that I knew. I knew we had been deceived," 80-year-old Saito told DW. At the arrival with hundreds of returnees and their families from Japan at Chongjin in 1961, Saito was greeted by poverty-stricken residents and heavily armed soldiers. The situation had worsened soon in the country. After four decades of hunger, repression and violence, she was finally able to escape over the border into China and, ultimately, return to Japan in 2001.

After decades of misery, Japanese escapee sues North Korean govt for ordeal

Taliban continued its offensive in Afghanistan after its weekend blitz led to the fall of key provincial cities with the US describing the situation as "grave".

Meanwhile, Canada reopened its border with the United States for the first time in 16 months after closing it last year as the pandemic began. However, only fully vaccinated US citizens are allowed inside Canada as it contemplates opening the country to foreign travellers next month.

Tension in the Korean Peninsula has mounted once again after Kim Jong Un's regime threatened the US and South Korea over military drills which are due to take place next week.

Click on the headline to know more, also check our latest video

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Taliban said its forces are closing in on Mazar-i-Sharif after a weekend blitz in which key provincial capitals fell to the militant groups.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-reopens-border-for-fully-vaccinated-americans-404358">Canada reopens border for fully vaccinated Americans</a>

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As Americans enter Canada the coronavirus situation in the US has deteriorated with the country recording an average 100,000 daily coronavirus cases.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/self-destructive-action-north-korea-warns-us-south-korea-over-military-drills-404364">'Self-destructive action': North Korea warns US, South Korea over military drills</a>

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The US said the military drills were part of a mutual agreement even as North Korea asserted it will boost "strong pre-emptive strike capability" to address the external threats.

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Taliban continued its offensive in Afghanistan after its weekend blitz led to the fall of key provincial cities with the US describing the situation as "grave". Meanwhile, Canada reopened its border with the United States for the first time in 16 months after closing it last year as the pandemic began.

Taliban continued its offensive in Afghanistan after its weekend blitz led to the fall of key provincial cities with the US describing the situation as "grave". Meanwhile, Canada reopened its border with the United States for the first time in 16 months after closing it last year as the pandemic began. However, only fully vaccinated US citizens are allowed inside Canada as it contemplates opening the country to foreign travellers next month. Tension in the Korean Peninsula has mounted once again after Kim Jong Un's regime threatened the US and South Korea over military drills which are due to take place next week. Click on the headline to know more, also check our latest video 'Grave concern': Taliban moves towards Mazar-i-Sharif after weekend blitz Taliban said its forces are closing in on Mazar-i-Sharif after a weekend blitz in which key provincial capitals fell to the militant groups. Canada reopens border for fully vaccinated Americans As Americans enter Canada the coronavirus situation in the US has deteriorated with the country recording an average 100,000 daily coronavirus cases. 'Self-destructive action': North Korea warns US, South Korea over military drills The US said the military drills were part of a mutual agreement even as North Korea asserted it will boost "strong pre-emptive strike capability" to address the external threats. Tennis: Novak Djokovic withdraws from Western & Southern Open Watch: 8-yr-old Hindu boy charged with blasphemy in Pak

Morning news brief: Taliban eye Mazar-i-Sharif, North Korea warns US, South Korea & more

As the United States and South Korean military prepare their joint military drills, North Korea's Kim Yo Jong, the sister of Kim Jong Un said the US and South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;"will face a more serious security threat by ignoring our repeated warnings to push ahead with the dangerous war exercises."

"The drills are an unwelcome, self-destructive action," North Korea's state-run KCNA news agency quoted Jong as saying.

Kim Yo Jong described the military drills as "treacherous" asserting that North Korea considers it rehearsals for invasion.

Watch:

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"I take this opportunity to express my strong regret for the treacherous treatment of the South Korean authorities," the powerful sister of Kim Jong Un said.

US and South Korean military will begin their preliminary training today as they carry out full military exercises next week

However, US Department of Defense spokesman Martin Meiners asserted that the drills were a "mutual agreement". The US has several thousand troops stationed in South Korea since the 1950-1953 Korean War which is still under armistice without a permanent peace deal.

Kim Yo Jong said North Korea will strive for "practical deterrence" while stating that it was imperative for the country to "build-up power to strongly contain external threats".

Although both North and South Koren leaders had met in Singapore in 2018 during Trump's presidency but the second summit between the former US president and Kim collapsed in Hanoi as the denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula continued to remain questionable.

North Korea has largely cut off ties with its neighbours while beefing up its arsenal as Kim demanded that peace would only be possible in the Korean peninsula if the US dismantled its military force across the border.

Kim Yo Jong said North Korea will maintain "absolute deterrence" "strong pre-emptive strike capability" due to the US military threat.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As the United States and South Korean military prepare their joint military drills, North Korea's Kim Yo Jong, the sister of Kim Jong Un said the US and South Korea "will face a more serious security threat by ignoring our repeated warnings to push ahead with the dangerous war exercises.

As the United States and South Korean military prepare their joint military drills, North Korea's Kim Yo Jong, the sister of Kim Jong Un said the US and South Korea "will face a more serious security threat by ignoring our repeated warnings to push ahead with the dangerous war exercises." "The drills are an unwelcome, self-destructive action," North Korea's state-run KCNA news agency quoted Jong as saying. Kim Yo Jong described the military drills as "treacherous" asserting that North Korea considers it rehearsals for invasion. Watch: "I take this opportunity to express my strong regret for the treacherous treatment of the South Korean authorities," the powerful sister of Kim Jong Un said. US and South Korean military will begin their preliminary training today as they carry out full military exercises next week However, US Department of Defense spokesman Martin Meiners asserted that the drills were a "mutual agreement". The US has several thousand troops stationed in South Korea since the 1950-1953 Korean War which is still under armistice without a permanent peace deal. Kim Yo Jong said North Korea will strive for "practical deterrence" while stating that it was imperative for the country to "build-up power to strongly contain external threats". Although both North and South Koren leaders had met in Singapore in 2018 during Trump's presidency but the second summit between the former US president and Kim collapsed in Hanoi as the denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula continued to remain questionable. North Korea has largely cut off ties with its neighbours while beefing up its arsenal as Kim demanded that peace would only be possible in the Korean peninsula if the US dismantled its military force across the border. Kim Yo Jong said North Korea will maintain "absolute deterrence" "strong pre-emptive strike capability" due to the US military threat. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Self-destructive action': North Korea warns US, South Korea over military drills

South Korean lawmakers said on Tuesday that Kim Jong Un-led North Korea government wants international sanctions preventing metal exports and refined fuel imports lifted before it begins denuclearisation talks with the US.

Following a briefing by Park Jie-won, head of South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS), lawmakers said that Pyongyang has also requested an easing of sanctions on imports of luxury goods, such as fine liquors and suits.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-unresponsive-to-behind-the-scenes-biden-administration-outreach-report-says-370327">North Korea unresponsive to behind-the-scenes Biden administration outreach, report says</a>

After suspending hotlines a year ago, the two Koreas restored channels this week, suggesting North Korea may be more receptive to engagement efforts.

"As a precondition to reopen talks,&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;argues that the United States should allow mineral exports and imports of refined oil and necessities," Ha Tae-keung, a member of the parliamentary intelligence committee, told reporters, citing Park.

"I asked which necessities they want the most, and they said high-class liquors and suits were included, not just for Kim Jong Un's own consumption but to distribute to Pyongyang's elite," he said, referring to&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea's leader.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-says-ready-to-hold-talks-on-denuclearization-in-exchange-of-lifting-of-sanctions-402797/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

There have been no indications from Washington that it is willing to ease sanctions ahead of any talks. Ned Price, a department spokesman, said on Monday that Secretary of State Antony Blinken planned to meet with Southeast Asian counterparts this week to fully implement sanctions on North Korea.

Kim Jong Un's government has been irresponsive even after Price reiterated that the US was willing to meet it "anytime, anywhere, without preconditions."

In addition to the wide range of sanctions imposed by the United Nations, the United States, and others, have also imposed sanctions on North Korea over its development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seoul-says-no-decision-on-us-drills-but-exercises-should-not-create-north-korea-tension-402498">Seoul says no decision on US drills, but exercises should not create North Korea tension</a>

Another spokeswoman for the State Department said,&nbsp;"In the meantime, in the absence of any type of engagements, United Nations sanctions on (North&nbsp;Korea) remain in place and we will continue to enforce them along with the international community."

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has not tested a nuclear weapon or an intercontinental ballistic missile since 2017.

A historic meeting between Kim Jong Un and former US President Donald Trump in 2018 raised hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough.

Two further meetings between Trump and Kim did not result in progress in getting North Korea to give up its nuclear and missile programs in return for sanctions relief.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-report-north-korea-ready-to-resume-denuclearisation-talks-402686/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to Kim Byung-kee, another South Korean legislator, North Korea appears to harbour dissatisfaction with Washington's failure to&nbsp;offer concessions for the test freeze.

Kim cited Park as saying that readjusting sanctions might restore dialogue.

On Sunday, North Korea's sister, Kim Yo Jong, warned South Korea that its joint drills with the United States, which Pyongyang views as preparations for an invasion, could thwart efforts to restore ties between the two Koreas.

There was no mention in North Korea's state-run media on Tuesday of a new call for sanctions to be lifted in order to restart talks.

(With inputs from agencies)

South Korean lawmakers said on Tuesday that Kim Jong Un-led North Korea government wants international sanctions preventing metal exports and refined fuel imports lifted before it begins denuclearisation talks with the US.

South Korean lawmakers said on Tuesday that Kim Jong Un-led North Korea government wants international sanctions preventing metal exports and refined fuel imports lifted before it begins denuclearisation talks with the US. Following a briefing by Park Jie-won, head of South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS), lawmakers said that Pyongyang has also requested an easing of sanctions on imports of luxury goods, such as fine liquors and suits. Also read | North Korea unresponsive to behind-the-scenes Biden administration outreach, report says After suspending hotlines a year ago, the two Koreas restored channels this week, suggesting North Korea may be more receptive to engagement efforts. "As a precondition to reopen talks, North Korea argues that the United States should allow mineral exports and imports of refined oil and necessities," Ha Tae-keung, a member of the parliamentary intelligence committee, told reporters, citing Park. "I asked which necessities they want the most, and they said high-class liquors and suits were included, not just for Kim Jong Un's own consumption but to distribute to Pyongyang's elite," he said, referring to North Korea's leader. There have been no indications from Washington that it is willing to ease sanctions ahead of any talks. Ned Price, a department spokesman, said on Monday that Secretary of State Antony Blinken planned to meet with Southeast Asian counterparts this week to fully implement sanctions on North Korea. Kim Jong Un's government has been irresponsive even after Price reiterated that the US was willing to meet it "anytime, anywhere, without preconditions." In addition to the wide range of sanctions imposed by the United Nations, the United States, and others, have also imposed sanctions on North Korea over its development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles. Also read | Seoul says no decision on US drills, but exercises should not create North Korea tension Another spokeswoman for the State Department said, "In the meantime, in the absence of any type of engagements, United Nations sanctions on (North Korea) remain in place and we will continue to enforce them along with the international community." North Korea has not tested a nuclear weapon or an intercontinental ballistic missile since 2017. A historic meeting between Kim Jong Un and former US President Donald Trump in 2018 raised hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough. Two further meetings between Trump and Kim did not result in progress in getting North Korea to give up its nuclear and missile programs in return for sanctions relief. According to Kim Byung-kee, another South Korean legislator, North Korea appears to harbour dissatisfaction with Washington's failure to offer concessions for the test freeze. Kim cited Park as saying that readjusting sanctions might restore dialogue. On Sunday, North Korea's sister, Kim Yo Jong, warned South Korea that its joint drills with the United States, which Pyongyang views as preparations for an invasion, could thwart efforts to restore ties between the two Koreas. There was no mention in North Korea's state-run media on Tuesday of a new call for sanctions to be lifted in order to restart talks. (With inputs from agencies)

Kim Jong Un seeks easing of sanctions before reopening US talks

Everyone in&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea is heartbroken over leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/kim-jong-un">Kim Jong Un's</a> apparent weight loss, said an unidentified resident of Pyongyang quoted on the country's tightly controlled state media, after watching recent video footage of Kim.

The rare public comment on Kim's health comes after foreign analysts noted in early June that the autocratic leader, who is believed to be 37, appeared to have lost a noticeable amount of weight.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/interesting-signal-from-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-says-white-house-393019">'Interesting signal' from North Korea's Kim Jong Un, says White House</a>

"Seeing respected general secretary (Kim Jong Un) looking emaciated breaks our people's heart so much," the man said in an interview aired by state broadcaster KRT on Friday.

"Everyone is saying that their tears welled up," he said.

In the clip, which Reuters could not independently verify, Pyongyang residents were seen watching a big screen on the street showing a concert attended by Kim and party officials after a plenary meeting of their Workers' Party of Korea (WPK).

The broadcast did not provide any details on what had led to the weight loss.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-jong-un-reappears-days-after-health-speculations-323107">North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reappears days after health speculations</a>

When Kim reappeared in state media in June after not being seen in public for almost a month, analysts at NK News, a Seoul-based website that monitors&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea, noted that his watch appeared to be fastened more tightly than before around an apparently slimmer wrist.

Given Kim's tight grip on power in&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea - and the uncertainty over any plans for a successor - international media, spy agencies, and specialists closely watch his health.

Early last year speculation about Kim’s health exploded after he missed the birth anniversary celebrations of state founder Kim Il Sung on April 15, only to reappear in public in early May.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-tightens-ruling-party-discipline-appoints-new-politburo-members-392500">Kim Jong Un tightens ruling party discipline, appoints new politburo members</a>

In 2014, state media reported that Kim was suffering from "discomfort", after a prolonged period out of the public eye.

Everyone in North Korea is heartbroken over leader Kim Jong Un's apparent weight loss, said an unidentified resident of Pyongyang quoted on the country's tightly controlled state media, after watching recent video footage of Kim.

Everyone in North Korea is heartbroken over leader Kim Jong Un's apparent weight loss, said an unidentified resident of Pyongyang quoted on the country's tightly controlled state media, after watching recent video footage of Kim. The rare public comment on Kim's health comes after foreign analysts noted in early June that the autocratic leader, who is believed to be 37, appeared to have lost a noticeable amount of weight. Also read | 'Interesting signal' from North Korea's Kim Jong Un, says White House "Seeing respected general secretary (Kim Jong Un) looking emaciated breaks our people's heart so much," the man said in an interview aired by state broadcaster KRT on Friday. "Everyone is saying that their tears welled up," he said. In the clip, which Reuters could not independently verify, Pyongyang residents were seen watching a big screen on the street showing a concert attended by Kim and party officials after a plenary meeting of their Workers' Party of Korea (WPK). The broadcast did not provide any details on what had led to the weight loss. Also read | North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reappears days after health speculations When Kim reappeared in state media in June after not being seen in public for almost a month, analysts at NK News, a Seoul-based website that monitors North Korea, noted that his watch appeared to be fastened more tightly than before around an apparently slimmer wrist. Given Kim's tight grip on power in North Korea - and the uncertainty over any plans for a successor - international media, spy agencies, and specialists closely watch his health. Early last year speculation about Kim’s health exploded after he missed the birth anniversary celebrations of state founder Kim Il Sung on April 15, only to reappear in public in early May. Also read | Kim Jong Un tightens ruling party discipline, appoints new politburo members In 2014, state media reported that Kim was suffering from "discomfort", after a prolonged period out of the public eye.

North Koreans worry over 'emaciated' Kim Jong Un, says state media

Almost a day after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/defector-group-launches-anti-north-korea-leaflets-despite-ban-381740">defector group</a> launched anti-North Korea leaflets, Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo-jong, has warned South Korea about the incident.

On April 30, Park Sang-hak, an activist who had led a similar campaign in 2000, announced that he launched 10 advertising balloons carrying 500,000 leaflets, 500 mini booklets and nearly 5,000 $1 bills in border provinces. The act took place between Sunday and Thursday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-sister-kim-yo-jong-slams-south-korea-for-criticising-recent-missile-test-374160">Kim Jong Un's sister Kim Yo Jong slams South Korea for criticising recent missile test</a>

"We regard the manoeuvres committed by the human&nbsp;scum in the south&nbsp;as a serious provocation against our state and will look into an action corresponding to them," Kim Yo-jong warned.

"We have already seriously warned the South Korean authorities of the consequences to be entailed by their wrong act of giving a silent approval to the human scum's wild moves for North-South relations," she added.

The act took place despite a ban from South Korea against spreading anti-Pyongyang literature after North Korea had warned that it will cut all communication with South Korea if any leaflets or other literature material against Kim Jong Un or the country is circulated.

Any violation of the law is punishable by up to three years in prison or 30 million won ($27,500) in fines.

Almost a day after a defector group launched anti-North Korea leaflets, Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo-jong, has warned South Korea about the incident. On April 30, Park Sang-hak, an activist who had led a similar campaign in 2000, announced that he launched 10 advertising balloons carrying 500,000 leaflets, 500 mini booklets and nearly 5,000 $1 bills in border provinces.

Almost a day after a defector group launched anti-North Korea leaflets, Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo-jong, has warned South Korea about the incident. On April 30, Park Sang-hak, an activist who had led a similar campaign in 2000, announced that he launched 10 advertising balloons carrying 500,000 leaflets, 500 mini booklets and nearly 5,000 $1 bills in border provinces. The act took place between Sunday and Thursday. Also read | Kim Jong Un's sister Kim Yo Jong slams South Korea for criticising recent missile test "We regard the manoeuvres committed by the human scum in the south as a serious provocation against our state and will look into an action corresponding to them," Kim Yo-jong warned. "We have already seriously warned the South Korean authorities of the consequences to be entailed by their wrong act of giving a silent approval to the human scum's wild moves for North-South relations," she added. The act took place despite a ban from South Korea against spreading anti-Pyongyang literature after North Korea had warned that it will cut all communication with South Korea if any leaflets or other literature material against Kim Jong Un or the country is circulated. Any violation of the law is punishable by up to three years in prison or 30 million won ($27,500) in fines.

Kim Jong Un's sister warns South Korea after anti-North Korea leaflets circulated

South Korean and US intelligence suspect that North Korea has completed the assembly of a 3,000-tonne submarine and is ready to launch it when the time is right, media reported on Sunday.

"Both South Korea and US intelligence authorities made the assessment that North Korea has already finished building the 3,000-tonne submarine unveiled in July 2019," as per the state Yonhap News Agency.

According to the agency, the news comes from a US think tank that said North Korea had moved a submersible missile test barge to a new position, likely hinting at an upcoming submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) test to take place.

"The authorities assess that North Korea is reviewing the right timing to roll out the submarine for a strategic effect, including maximizing pressure against the United States," said a source, as quoted by Yonhap.

According to the US think tank, this would be North Korea's first true ballistic missile submarine. During an annual military parade late last year, Pyongyang showcased a beefed-up nuclear-capable missiles arsenal, with upgraded SLBMs as the main addition.&nbsp;

South Korean and US intelligence suspect that North Korea has completed the assembly of a 3,000-tonne submarine and is ready to launch it when the time is right, media reported on Sunday.

South Korean and US intelligence suspect that North Korea has completed the assembly of a 3,000-tonne submarine and is ready to launch it when the time is right, media reported on Sunday. "Both South Korea and US intelligence authorities made the assessment that North Korea has already finished building the 3,000-tonne submarine unveiled in July 2019," as per the state Yonhap News Agency. According to the agency, the news comes from a US think tank that said North Korea had moved a submersible missile test barge to a new position, likely hinting at an upcoming submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) test to take place. "The authorities assess that North Korea is reviewing the right timing to roll out the submarine for a strategic effect, including maximizing pressure against the United States," said a source, as quoted by Yonhap. According to the US think tank, this would be North Korea's first true ballistic missile submarine. During an annual military parade late last year, Pyongyang showcased a beefed-up nuclear-capable missiles arsenal, with upgraded SLBMs as the main addition.

North Korea completes assembly of 3,000-tonne submarine: Report

Kim Jong-Nam — the half-brother of North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un and once the favoured heir apparent of their late father and former North Korean leader Kim Jong-il — was assassinated in 2017.&nbsp;The confusing circumstances surrounding the murder and subsequent prosecution of the two women accused of the crime is examined in director Ryan White’s real-life crime thriller documentary 'Assassins'.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/documentary-assassins-tells-the-strange-story-of-the-murder-of-kim-jong-uns-half-brother-359987">The&nbsp;trailer opens on the disbelief that a “happy-go-lucky” woman could be one of two women accused of assassinating Kim Jong-nam.</a>&nbsp;As details unfold in the clip, it discusses the threat Kim Jong-nam posed to King Jong-un’s “legitimacy,” which lends motive to what comes next.

Kim Jong-Nam was assassinated at a busy Malaysian airport after being exposed to VX nerve agent. In the trailer, footage from the airport shows a woman wrapping her hands around his eyes in a seemingly playful manner. Two women were arrested following the assassination, but the women claimed they thought they were part of a TV prank show.

U.S. director Ryan White spent 2-1/2 years investigating the case for 'Assassins'.

The film focuses on the two women - Indonesian Siti Aisyah and Vietnamese Doan Thi Huong - who were charged with poisoning Kim by smearing his face with the banned chemical weapon VX and had at one point faced a mandatory death penalty in Malaysia. 
&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CmyVSZ2yDeo" width="560"></iframe>

Defense lawyers maintained they were pawns in an assassination orchestrated by North Korean agents. The women said they thought they were part of a reality prank show and did not know they were poisoning Kim.

Siti was freed in March 2019 after a Malaysian court dropped charges against her. Prosecutors dropped a murder charge against Huong, who pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of causing harm using dangerous means, and she went free the following May. 
 
&nbsp;
<img alt="A still from Youtube. Image: Youtube/Greenwich Entertainment" data-caption="A still from Youtube. Image: Youtube/Greenwich Entertainment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9b0c12ff-d895-439b-be9f-597f1d0e03c1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/kim%20jong.JPG" />
 
In an interview with Rolling Stones, filmmaker Ryan White revealed,&nbsp;“Trump was just taking office when Kim Jong-nam was assassinated in 2017,” White tells Rolling Stone. “So, this murder was a top story for a couple of days, but then it basically disappeared as Trump dominated the airwaves. Almost everybody I talk to remembers the headline, but few people know what happened after or what the truth is.” 
 
&nbsp;
<img alt="A still from Youtube. Image: Youtube/Greenwich Entertainment" data-caption="A still from Youtube. Image: Youtube/Greenwich Entertainment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17f451cc-5c16-4dc8-a9dc-97fbd6c0cbbe" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/kim%20jong%202.JPG" />
He said, “We knew these two women were facing execution for the crime, and most people on the ground in Malaysia were telling us that they were going to be convicted,” White says. “I had never made a film in which the stakes were truly life-or-death, so the need to make the film quickly and thoroughly was paramount. 
 
&nbsp;
<img alt="A still from Youtube. Image: Youtube/Greenwich Entertainment" data-caption="A still from Youtube. Image: Youtube/Greenwich Entertainment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2231bdf6-5558-4d1b-8e0f-622916a562b2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/kim%20jong3.JPG" />
“I also wasn’t able to directly access the women for the majority of the filmmaking process, because they were in prison,” he continues. “I’d see them every day on their way into trial, handcuffed and surrounded by machine guns, but it was the first time I’d made a film about people I hadn’t met.” White concluded

Kim Jong-Nam — the half-brother of North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un and once the favoured heir apparent of their late father and former North Korean leader Kim Jong-il — was assassinated in 2017.

Kim Jong-Nam — the half-brother of North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un and once the favoured heir apparent of their late father and former North Korean leader Kim Jong-il — was assassinated in 2017. The confusing circumstances surrounding the murder and subsequent prosecution of the two women accused of the crime is examined in director Ryan White’s real-life crime thriller documentary 'Assassins'. The trailer opens on the disbelief that a “happy-go-lucky” woman could be one of two women accused of assassinating Kim Jong-nam. As details unfold in the clip, it discusses the threat Kim Jong-nam posed to King Jong-un’s “legitimacy,” which lends motive to what comes next. Kim Jong-Nam was assassinated at a busy Malaysian airport after being exposed to VX nerve agent. In the trailer, footage from the airport shows a woman wrapping her hands around his eyes in a seemingly playful manner. Two women were arrested following the assassination, but the women claimed they thought they were part of a TV prank show. U.S. director Ryan White spent 2-1/2 years investigating the case for 'Assassins'. The film focuses on the two women - Indonesian Siti Aisyah and Vietnamese Doan Thi Huong - who were charged with poisoning Kim by smearing his face with the banned chemical weapon VX and had at one point faced a mandatory death penalty in Malaysia. Defense lawyers maintained they were pawns in an assassination orchestrated by North Korean agents. The women said they thought they were part of a reality prank show and did not know they were poisoning Kim. Siti was freed in March 2019 after a Malaysian court dropped charges against her. Prosecutors dropped a murder charge against Huong, who pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of causing harm using dangerous means, and she went free the following May. In an interview with Rolling Stones, filmmaker Ryan White revealed, “Trump was just taking office when Kim Jong-nam was assassinated in 2017,” White tells Rolling Stone. “So, this murder was a top story for a couple of days, but then it basically disappeared as Trump dominated the airwaves. Almost everybody I talk to remembers the headline, but few people know what happened after or what the truth is.” He said, “We knew these two women were facing execution for the crime, and most people on the ground in Malaysia were telling us that they were going to be convicted,” White says. “I had never made a film in which the stakes were truly life-or-death, so the need to make the film quickly and thoroughly was paramount. “I also wasn’t able to directly access the women for the majority of the filmmaking process, because they were in prison,” he continues. “I’d see them every day on their way into trial, handcuffed and surrounded by machine guns, but it was the first time I’d made a film about people I hadn’t met.” White concluded

Inside 'Assassins': A documentary that talks about the strange murder of Kim Jong Un's half-brother

From pompous parades to grand group photos North Korea&nbsp;celebrated&nbsp;the conclusion of its eighth party congress.

During the grand show, North Korea has unveiled the latest addition in its weapon arsenal. A submarine-launched ballistic missile with black and white cones.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-sister-lashes-out-at-idiot-south-korean-authorities-kcna-356431">Kim Jong Un's sister lashes out at 'idiot' South Korean authorities: KCNA</a>

At least 4 of them were put on exhibit. According to the state media, it is the world's most powerful weapon. &nbsp;It's a solid-fuel short-range ballistic missile. More mobile and more quickly deployed than liquid-fuelled versions. It could enable Pyongyang to launch a surprise attack on the United States.

This military extravaganza is being seen as a message to the incoming. Biden administration to extract concessions and this could explain why.

US President-elect, Joe Biden said: "What has he done? He’s legitimized North Korea, he’s talked about his good buddy, who’s a thug, a thug. Now, he talks about how we’re better off, and they have much more capable missiles, able to reach US territory much more easily than ever before."

Not only did Joe Biden called Kim Jong Un a thug, he even compared him with Hitler.

The comparison has not gone down well with the supreme leader of North Korea. This show of strength could be a carefully calibrated message to America to watch out.

From pompous parades to grand group photos North Korea celebrated the conclusion of its eighth party congress. During the grand show, North Korea has unveiled the latest addition in its weapon arsenal.

From pompous parades to grand group photos North Korea celebrated the conclusion of its eighth party congress. During the grand show, North Korea has unveiled the latest addition in its weapon arsenal. A submarine-launched ballistic missile with black and white cones. Also read| Kim Jong Un's sister lashes out at 'idiot' South Korean authorities: KCNA At least 4 of them were put on exhibit. According to the state media, it is the world's most powerful weapon. It's a solid-fuel short-range ballistic missile. More mobile and more quickly deployed than liquid-fuelled versions. It could enable Pyongyang to launch a surprise attack on the United States. This military extravaganza is being seen as a message to the incoming. Biden administration to extract concessions and this could explain why. US President-elect, Joe Biden said: "What has he done? He’s legitimized North Korea, he’s talked about his good buddy, who’s a thug, a thug. Now, he talks about how we’re better off, and they have much more capable missiles, able to reach US territory much more easily than ever before." Not only did Joe Biden called Kim Jong Un a thug, he even compared him with Hitler. The comparison has not gone down well with the supreme leader of North Korea. This show of strength could be a carefully calibrated message to America to watch out.

North Korea unveil submarine-launched ballistic missile

US Democrats are preparing to impeach outgoing President Donald Trump after the violence at Capitol Hill last week. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she will move a resolution to impeach the current US president.

Meanwhile, as the coronavirus pandemic continued to surge in Europe, several governments including France, Germany and Spain have ramped up their vaccination drive in a bit to contain the virus amid growing criticism over the slow pace of inoculation.

In North Korea, Kim Jong-Un has assumed the title of "general secretary" a title held by his late father in a move widely seen to bolster his authority. The KCNA news agency said that the move received "stormy applause" during the congress on Sunday.

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-democrats-plan-vote-on-monday-for-removing-trump-over-capitol-riots-355859">US House Democrats plan vote on Monday for removing Trump over Capitol riots</a>

<img alt="Trump-Pelosi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ef62c280-205b-4665-90ec-afa0d517f250" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/TrumpP_0.jpg" />

Five people had died in the rampage through the seat of government by Trump's backers after a fiery speech denouncing the November 3 election results by the Republican president.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-ramps-up-vaccination-drive-amid-surge-in-cases-355858">Europe ramps up vaccination drive amid surge in cases</a> 
&nbsp;

<img alt="Coronavirus in London" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c0b47970-0161-48f4-ae83-8d9612dcd063" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/London1.jpg" />

Britain has been vaccinating 200,000 people per day as German Chancellor&nbsp;Angela Merkel&nbsp;warned that "the coming weeks will be the hardest phase of the pandemic".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-move-to-bolster-authority-north-korea-leader-kim-jong-un-assumes-late-fathers-title-355867">In move to bolster authority, Kim Jong-Un assumes late father's title</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-move-to-bolster-authority-north-korea-leader-kim-jong-un-assumes-late-fathers-title-355867"><img alt="Kim Jong-un" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9b0cc446-04a1-43ca-a095-0439980f5585" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/KIM1.jpg" /></a>

North Korea's state media said that the &nbsp;Workers' Party had adopted a resolution to elect its leader&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-jong-un-pledges-to-strengthen-defence-capabilities-at-rare-party-congress-354970">Kim Jong-Un&nbsp;</a>as "general secretary"

Watch:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/josef-stalin-themed-moscow-doner-shop-faces-backlash-355868">Josef Stalin themed Moscow Doner shop faces backlash</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/josef-stalin-themed-moscow-doner-shop-faces-backlash-355868/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-impact-bangkoks-iconic-tourist-sited-are-empty-355866/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

US Democrats are preparing to impeach outgoing President Donald Trump after the violence at Capitol Hill last week. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she will move a resolution to impeach the current US president.

US Democrats are preparing to impeach outgoing President Donald Trump after the violence at Capitol Hill last week. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she will move a resolution to impeach the current US president. Meanwhile, as the coronavirus pandemic continued to surge in Europe, several governments including France, Germany and Spain have ramped up their vaccination drive in a bit to contain the virus amid growing criticism over the slow pace of inoculation. In North Korea, Kim Jong-Un has assumed the title of "general secretary" a title held by his late father in a move widely seen to bolster his authority. The KCNA news agency said that the move received "stormy applause" during the congress on Sunday. Click on headlines to read more US House Democrats plan vote on Monday for removing Trump over Capitol riots Five people had died in the rampage through the seat of government by Trump's backers after a fiery speech denouncing the November 3 election results by the Republican president. Europe ramps up vaccination drive amid surge in cases Britain has been vaccinating 200,000 people per day as German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned that "the coming weeks will be the hardest phase of the pandemic". In move to bolster authority, Kim Jong-Un assumes late father's title North Korea's state media said that the Workers' Party had adopted a resolution to elect its leader Kim Jong-Un as "general secretary" Watch: Josef Stalin themed Moscow Doner shop faces backlash Watch:

Morning news brief: Trump impeachment, coronavirus vaccination in Europe & more

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