North Korea has unwelded a new battle tank. The state news agency claims that the country's leader Kim Jong-un even drove this new tank and the heavy armored fighting vehicle was unveiled during a training match between tank units.

North Korea: Kim Jong-un inspects battle tank drills

North Korea has unwelded a new battle tank. The state news agency claims that the country's leader Kim Jong-un even drove this new tank and the heavy armored fighting vehicle was unveiled during a training match between tank units. Watch to know more!

North Korea: Kim Jong Un leads new war tank training in mock battle

Kim Jong Un, the North Korean leader, on Wednesday&nbsp;visited a major military operations base in the western region of the country. There, the supreme leader issued directives for heightened readiness for a potential war, reported state KCNA news agency on Thursday.

<h2>US-South Korea drills</h2>

As per a Reuters report, the tour of the base — the location of which was not identified — coincided with the start of annual joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea, a move that has historically irked North Korea.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-exploited-loophole-to-quietly-sell-weapons-to-israel-amidst-gaza-bloodshed-report-697423">US exploited 'loophole' to quietly sell weapons to Israel amidst Gaza bloodshed: Report</a>

This year's US-South Korea drills feature twice the number of troops taking part compared to last year.

During his visit, Kim emphasised the need for the military to be fully prepared for any eventuality, and said that the army must "dynamically usher in a new heyday of intensifying the war preparations in line with the requirements of the prevailing situation."

"Our army should … steadily intensify the actual war drills aimed at rapidly improving its combat capabilities for perfect war preparedness," he told the troops, as quoted by KCNA.

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At the undisclosed location, he inspected troops conducting actual manoeuvres under conditions simulating actual war. The report does not mention whether the supreme North Korean leader directly referred to the US-South Korea drills.

(With inputs from agencies)

Kim Jong Un, the North Korean leader, on Wednesday visited a major military operations base in the western region of the country. There, the supreme leader issued directives for heightened readiness for a potential war, reported state KCNA news agency on Thursday.

Kim Jong Un, the North Korean leader, on Wednesday visited a major military operations base in the western region of the country. There, the supreme leader issued directives for heightened readiness for a potential war, reported state KCNA news agency on Thursday. US-South Korea drills As per a Reuters report, the tour of the base — the location of which was not identified — coincided with the start of annual joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea, a move that has historically irked North Korea. Also read | US exploited 'loophole' to quietly sell weapons to Israel amidst Gaza bloodshed: Report This year's US-South Korea drills feature twice the number of troops taking part compared to last year. During his visit, Kim emphasised the need for the military to be fully prepared for any eventuality, and said that the army must "dynamically usher in a new heyday of intensifying the war preparations in line with the requirements of the prevailing situation." "Our army should … steadily intensify the actual war drills aimed at rapidly improving its combat capabilities for perfect war preparedness," he told the troops, as quoted by KCNA. Also read | US Presidential Election 2024: Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell endorses Trump for president At the undisclosed location, he inspected troops conducting actual manoeuvres under conditions simulating actual war. The report does not mention whether the supreme North Korean leader directly referred to the US-South Korea drills. (With inputs from agencies)

Kim Jong Un visits military base, tells North Korean military to be prepared for war: Report

A report by the Washington Post on Wednesday (Mar 6) claimed that the United States (US) made over 100 weapons sales to Israel since the war between Israel and Hamas started on October 7 last year. These transactions, however, escaped congressional approval due to a loophole — their individual amounts were below the threshold requiring such oversight.

In the US, lawmakers in Alabama passed legislation protecting In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) providers, and the state's governor is expected to sign it into law.

In other news from around the world, North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong Un visited a major military operations base in the western region of the country, issuing directives for heightened readiness for a potential war, reported the state KCNA news agency on Thursday.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-exploited-loophole-to-quietly-sell-weapons-to-israel-amidst-gaza-bloodshed-report-697423">US exploited 'loophole' to quietly sell weapons to Israel amidst Gaza bloodshed: Report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/07/416695-new-wion-33.jpg?imwidth=400" /> 
&nbsp;

Even as thousands died to Israeli retaliatory fire on Gaza, the United States, as per a damning report, made over 100 weapons sales to Israel, including thousands of bombs, since the start of the Israel-Hamas war. These transactions, however, escaped congressional approval due to a loophole — their individual amounts were below the threshold requiring such oversight.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alabama-lawmakers-approve-ivf-protection-bill-amid-conservative-backlash-697441">Alabama lawmakers approve IVF protection bill amid conservative backlash</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/07/416705-untitled-design-2024-03-07t084242725.png?imwidth=400" />

Alabama lawmakers in the United States have passed legislation protecting In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) providers. The governor is expected to sign it into law.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-visits-military-base-tells-army-to-be-prepared-for-war-report-697425">Kim Jong Un visits military base, tells army to be prepared for war: Report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/07/416696-new-wion-34.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Kim Jong Un, the North Korea leader, on Wednesday&nbsp;visited a major military operations base in the western region of the country. There, the supreme leader issued directives for heightened readiness for a potential war, reported state KCNA news agency on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-puts-focus-on-genocide-convention-over-imminent-threat-of-famine-in-gaza-697436">South Africa puts focus on Genocide Convention over 'imminent threat' of famine in Gaza</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/07/416703-untitled-design-2024-03-07t083151061.png?imwidth=400" />

South Africa asked the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to initiate more emergency measures against Israel amid the war in Gaza. In its application, President Cyril Ramaphosa-led nation said that Palestinians in Gaza are facing starvation and therefore, the court must order all parties to cease hostilities and release all hostages.&nbsp;

UK Finance Minister Jeremy Hunt presents Spring budget

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A report by the Washington Post on Wednesday (Mar 6) claimed that the United States (US) made over 100 weapons sales to Israel since the war between Israel and Hamas started on October 7 last year.

A report by the Washington Post on Wednesday (Mar 6) claimed that the United States (US) made over 100 weapons sales to Israel since the war between Israel and Hamas started on October 7 last year. These transactions, however, escaped congressional approval due to a loophole — their individual amounts were below the threshold requiring such oversight. In the US, lawmakers in Alabama passed legislation protecting In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) providers, and the state's governor is expected to sign it into law. In other news from around the world, North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong Un visited a major military operations base in the western region of the country, issuing directives for heightened readiness for a potential war, reported the state KCNA news agency on Thursday. Click on the headlines to read more: US exploited 'loophole' to quietly sell weapons to Israel amidst Gaza bloodshed: Report Even as thousands died to Israeli retaliatory fire on Gaza, the United States, as per a damning report, made over 100 weapons sales to Israel, including thousands of bombs, since the start of the Israel-Hamas war. These transactions, however, escaped congressional approval due to a loophole — their individual amounts were below the threshold requiring such oversight. Alabama lawmakers approve IVF protection bill amid conservative backlash Alabama lawmakers in the United States have passed legislation protecting In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) providers. The governor is expected to sign it into law. Kim Jong Un visits military base, tells army to be prepared for war: Report Kim Jong Un, the North Korea leader, on Wednesday visited a major military operations base in the western region of the country. There, the supreme leader issued directives for heightened readiness for a potential war, reported state KCNA news agency on Thursday. South Africa puts focus on Genocide Convention over 'imminent threat' of famine in Gaza South Africa asked the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to initiate more emergency measures against Israel amid the war in Gaza. In its application, President Cyril Ramaphosa-led nation said that Palestinians in Gaza are facing starvation and therefore, the court must order all parties to cease hostilities and release all hostages. UK Finance Minister Jeremy Hunt presents Spring budget ×

Morning brief: US 'secret' weapon sales to Israel; N Korea leader asks army to be ready for war; and more

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited a military base in the western region of the country to inspect the field training of troops and has ordered 'heightened readiness for war'.

North Korea leader Kim Jong Un orders heightened war preparations

North Korean leader Kim Jong UN orders heightened readiness for war

As leader Kim Jong Un continues to inflame tensions on the peninsula, North Korea's 100-foot-tall Arch of Reunification, erected in Pyongyang to honor friendly ties with the South, vanished from the capital's skyline sometime over the weekend, a report claims.

Escalating tensions in Korean peninsula: Pyongyang's rising nuclear & missile threats

Vladimir Putin gave Kim Jong-un a luxury Russian Aurus limousine as a gift because the North Korean leader liked the car when the Russian president showed it to him last year, the Kremlin said on Tuesday.

Kim Jong-un receives luxury Russian limo from Vladimir's Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin gifted a Russian-made car to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, said Pyongyang's state media on Tuesday (Feb 20), as the two countries bolster ties in areas of defence, tourism and others.&nbsp;

The gift has violated the multiple UN sanctions on North Korea over the nuclear and other weapons programmes of Kim Jong Un. The sanctions, passed in the past with approval also from Russia, bans the the import of any luxury goods or vehicles into the country.

Kim was "presented with a car made in Russia for his personal use by Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, president of the Russian Federation,"&nbsp;reported Pyongyang's official Korean Central News Agency.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-hold-alexei-navalnys-body-for-two-weeks-carry-out-chemical-analysis-claims-family-691827">Russia to hold Alexei Navalny’s body for two weeks, will carry out 'chemical analysis’, family told</a>

Speaking about the car, Kim's sister Yo Jong said the "gift serves as a clear demonstration of the special personal relations between the top leaders" of the two countries, added KCNA.

<h2>Kim Jong Un's love for cars</h2>

Kim is known for his affinity for lavish automobiles.

He has been seen using luxury cars, which include Lexus SUVs and Mercedes-Benz S-Class models.

According to a 2021 UN report, there was an attempted shipment of luxury vehicles, worth more than $1 million, to North Korea.&nbsp;

The list of luxury vehicles included models allegedly sent from the United Arab Emirates to Ningbo, China.

South Korea's unification ministry said that the gift from Putin, which they had classed as a luxury vehicle and was given as a gift to Kim, was a violation of UN sanctions.

"We condemn North Korea for its brazen attitude of publicly disclosing violations of the UN sanctions," said a ministry official, while speaking to the reporters.

"Russia should also be aware of its responsibility as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and stop an act that undermines international norms," the official said.

Watch:&nbsp;Alexei Navalny death: Navalny’s widow accuses Putin of killing him and vows to continue his work

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When Kim visited Russia last year, Putin had offered him the back seat of his presidential Aurus Senat limousine.

Kim had reached Moscow with his Maybach limousine, which had travelled on a special train from North Korea.&nbsp;

Seoul-based specialist site NK News reported that there was a possibility the vehicle was an Aurus Senat armoured sedan or limousine.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin gifted a Russian-made car to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, said Pyongyang's state media on Tuesday (Feb 20), as the two countries bolster ties in areas of defence, tourism and others.

Russian President Vladimir Putin gifted a Russian-made car to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, said Pyongyang's state media on Tuesday (Feb 20), as the two countries bolster ties in areas of defence, tourism and others. The gift has violated the multiple UN sanctions on North Korea over the nuclear and other weapons programmes of Kim Jong Un. The sanctions, passed in the past with approval also from Russia, bans the the import of any luxury goods or vehicles into the country. Kim was "presented with a car made in Russia for his personal use by Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, president of the Russian Federation," reported Pyongyang's official Korean Central News Agency. Also Read: Russia to hold Alexei Navalny’s body for two weeks, will carry out 'chemical analysis’, family told Speaking about the car, Kim's sister Yo Jong said the "gift serves as a clear demonstration of the special personal relations between the top leaders" of the two countries, added KCNA. Kim Jong Un's love for cars Kim is known for his affinity for lavish automobiles. He has been seen using luxury cars, which include Lexus SUVs and Mercedes-Benz S-Class models. According to a 2021 UN report, there was an attempted shipment of luxury vehicles, worth more than $1 million, to North Korea. The list of luxury vehicles included models allegedly sent from the United Arab Emirates to Ningbo, China. South Korea's unification ministry said that the gift from Putin, which they had classed as a luxury vehicle and was given as a gift to Kim, was a violation of UN sanctions. "We condemn North Korea for its brazen attitude of publicly disclosing violations of the UN sanctions," said a ministry official, while speaking to the reporters. "Russia should also be aware of its responsibility as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and stop an act that undermines international norms," the official said. Watch: Alexei Navalny death: Navalny’s widow accuses Putin of killing him and vows to continue his work When Kim visited Russia last year, Putin had offered him the back seat of his presidential Aurus Senat limousine. Kim had reached Moscow with his Maybach limousine, which had travelled on a special train from North Korea. Seoul-based specialist site NK News reported that there was a possibility the vehicle was an Aurus Senat armoured sedan or limousine. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin gifts Russian-made car to North Korea's Kim Jong Un, violating UN sanctions

North Korean on Friday extended a provocative run in weapons tests by firing cruise missiles into the sea, as leader Kim Jong Un called for his military to step up war preparations while touring a shipyard.

North Korea launches several cruise missiles

North Korea has reportedly demolished a major monument which symbolised the goal of reconciliation with South Korea following the orders of their leader Kim Jong Un who called the massive structure that his father constructed in the capital city Pyongyang, an “eyesore,” earlier this month.&nbsp;

While the move seems to be in line with the North Korean leader’s rhetoric and volatile temperament, and given the rise of tensions between Pyongyang and Seoul, it is important to know what the monument symbolised and why it’s reported razing is making the headlines.&nbsp;

<h2>About the Arch of Reunification</h2>

The Arch of Reunification, officially known as the Monument to the Three-Point Charter for National Reunification, is said to be one of the major monuments in the North Korean capital city and is located on the Pyongyang-Kaesong (reunification highway).&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;North Korea says Arch of Reunification disappeared from Pyongyang

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However, satellite imagery of Pyongyang, last week, showed that the 30 metre-tall and 61.5- metre&nbsp;wide symbol was no longer there, according to a report by NK News, an online outlet that monitors North Korea.

The American website in its report also stressed that the images are ‘hazy’ at best and one snapshot was taken Tuesday (Jan 23) by an inter-Korean rail crossing at Kaesong did not clearly show any construction crews. Therefore, a higher-definition picture is needed to be certain that the monument has in fact disappeared.&nbsp;

The arch was unveiled a year after the 2000 inter-Korea summit between Kim’s father North Korean leader Kim Jong-il, and former South Korean President Kim Dae-jung. The summit resulted in a joint declaration, in which both countries agreed to pursue reunification through peaceful means.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-calls-for-more-practical-offensive-war-deterrence-to-counter-us-south-korea-581166">North Korea’s Kim calls for more ‘practical, offensive’ war deterrence to counter US, South Korea</a>

The 30-metre-tall monument was symbolic of the three charters – self-reliance, peace and national cooperation, according to South Korean government records. The arch symbolised reunification plans through diplomacy put forward by Kim’s father.&nbsp;

Since Kim Jong Un’s grandfather, Kim Il-Sung took over the premiership of the newly formed Democratic People’s Republic of Korea &nbsp;(DPRK), North Korea’s official name, in 1948, he had hoped to reunify with South Korea. However, he took a different approach.&nbsp;

Kim Il-Sung unlike his son tried to reunify Korea by force and launched an invasion of South Korea triggering the Korean War, which ended in a stalemate three years later.&nbsp;

<h2>Rise in tensions between the two Koreas</h2>

Earlier this month, in a speech at North Korea’s rubber-stamp parliament, Kim called for the country’s constitution to be changed to ensure that South Korea is defined as “the most hostile state,” reported the state media KCNA.&nbsp;

According to Kim, the constitution should be amended to educate North Koreans that South Korea is a “primary foe and invariable principal enemy”.&nbsp;

During the same speech, on January 15, he had also called the massive monument that his father constructed in Pyongyang an “eyesore” and vowed to get rid of it.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nkoreas-kim-calls-for-skorea-to-be-seen-as-the-most-hostile-state-threatens-war-680451">&nbsp;North Korea’s Kim calls for South Korea to be seen as ‘the most hostile state’, threatens war</a>

It was around the same time that North Korea had abolished agencies that oversaw cooperation and reunification, indicating that Kim was no longer interested in seeking reconciliation with South Korea.&nbsp;

Additionally, three organisations dealing with unification and inter-Korean tourism were also shut down, the state media had reported, earlier this month. On January 15, Kim said Pyongyang would not recognise the two countries’ de facto maritime border, the Northern Limit Line (NLL).&nbsp;

Last year, in April, the South Korean Unification Ministry said that North Korea had not responded to their regularly held calls, adding that this is the first time since October 2021 that all inter-Korean military lines or liaison calls have stopped for more than a day.&nbsp;

The communication lines were first opened in 2018 when the two countries set up hotlines after a series of summits aimed at decreasing tensions in the region. However, it was not the first time that North Korea unilaterally shut down the communications links in a display of anger.

The line was restored in July 2021 following North Korea’s shutdown for nearly a year after its anger over South Korean activists sending leaflets critical of Kim’s regime across the border by balloon.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/day-after-seouls-claims-n-korea-confirms-kim-oversaw-launch-of-cruise-missiles-from-submarine-684638">Day after Seoul's claims, N Korea confirms Kim oversaw launch of cruise missiles from submarine</a>

The communication&nbsp;was cut off in 2023 also around the time when South Korea was holding drills with the United States, which North Korea has long viewed as an enemy. Pyongyang, which reportedly has nuclear weapons, also tested a record number of missiles last year.&nbsp;

It also seems like it is going to be more of the same in 2024, as within the first month of the year, North Korea has already tested a number of missiles, including a cruise missile dubbed Pulhwasal-3-3, on January 24 and again on January 28.&nbsp;

This was after North Korea had fired more than 200 artillery rounds near a disputed maritime border with South Korea prompting Seoul to take “corresponding” action with live fire drills. The exchange prompted the evacuation of nearly 2,000 residents of two remote South Korean islands to bomb shelters.&nbsp;

<h2>An ‘unachieved wish’</h2>

Kim Jong Un was 26 years old when he took over North Korea, days after his father’s death, and like his predecessors, he too has ruled the country with an iron fist ever since. However, unlike his father and grandfather, the incumbent leader does not seem to be interested in the idea of reunification.&nbsp;

Cho Han-bum, a researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification told AFP, earlier this month, that the North Korean system has long been grounded on the idea of reunification, an unachieved wish of the country’s founding leader and Kim’s grandfather Kim II Sung.

“Now he is denying everything that his predecessors have done,” said Cho.

Therefore, if confirmed, getting rid of his father’s monument would be a big step for Kim, who was known to be his favourite son and hence became his successor.

However, it seems as though since his grandfather’s invasion and his father’s diplomacy did not work, Kim is charting his own course, which involves ramping up military rhetoric and posturing.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-us-south-korea-nuclear-weapons-deal-about-is-this-end-of-peace-in-korean-peninsula-586684">Explained | What is US-South Korea nuclear weapons deal about? Is this end of peace in Korean Peninsula?</a>

While reunification has long been on the North Korean agenda, Kim, earlier this month said that he had concluded that unification with the South was no longer possible and accused Seoul of seeking the collapse of his regime and unification by absorption.&nbsp;

The Korea Institute for National Unification, a think-tank, said Kim has all but removed the ‘concept of unity’ from North Korean policy, reported Metro newspaper.&nbsp;

Therefore, by reportedly removing the Arch of Reunification ‘the history of inter-Korean relations was completely denied’ and the ‘geopolitical risks’ to South Korea will continue to rise, analysts added.

<h2>The US factor</h2>

Pyongyang’s hatred towards Washington can be traced back to the Korean War where then-US President Harry Truman’s declaration prompted nearly two dozen countries to send troops and medical units to back South Korea, during the war.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-thousands-of-north-koreans-holds-rallies-denouncing-us-609023">'Vow of revenge': North Koreans rally to mark 73rd anniversary of Korean War, denounce US</a>

Meanwhile, North Korea was supported by both the Soviet Union and China. Therefore, the alliances over the years have not changed all that much. Even today, Pyongyang maintains good relations with Beijing and Moscow.&nbsp;

Except for Kim’s brief “bromance” with former US President Donald Trump when he was the commander-in-chief, not like the much-awaited meeting between the two leaders produced any tangible results.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the US and South Korea&nbsp;have conducted a number of drills amid Kim’s increasing military rhetoric and posturing. Last year, Washington, for the first time since the 1980s also deployed a nuclear-armed ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) to a South Korean port.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

North Korea has reportedly demolished a major monument which symbolised the goal of reconciliation with South Korea following the orders of their leader Kim Jong Un who called the massive structure that his father constructed in the capital city Pyongyang, an “eyesore,” earlier this month.

North Korea has reportedly demolished a major monument which symbolised the goal of reconciliation with South Korea following the orders of their leader Kim Jong Un who called the massive structure that his father constructed in the capital city Pyongyang, an “eyesore,” earlier this month. While the move seems to be in line with the North Korean leader’s rhetoric and volatile temperament, and given the rise of tensions between Pyongyang and Seoul, it is important to know what the monument symbolised and why it’s reported razing is making the headlines. About the Arch of Reunification The Arch of Reunification, officially known as the Monument to the Three-Point Charter for National Reunification, is said to be one of the major monuments in the North Korean capital city and is located on the Pyongyang-Kaesong (reunification highway). WATCH | North Korea says Arch of Reunification disappeared from Pyongyang However, satellite imagery of Pyongyang, last week, showed that the 30 metre-tall and 61.5- metre wide symbol was no longer there, according to a report by NK News, an online outlet that monitors North Korea. The American website in its report also stressed that the images are ‘hazy’ at best and one snapshot was taken Tuesday (Jan 23) by an inter-Korean rail crossing at Kaesong did not clearly show any construction crews. Therefore, a higher-definition picture is needed to be certain that the monument has in fact disappeared. The arch was unveiled a year after the 2000 inter-Korea summit between Kim’s father North Korean leader Kim Jong-il, and former South Korean President Kim Dae-jung. The summit resulted in a joint declaration, in which both countries agreed to pursue reunification through peaceful means. ALSO READ | North Korea’s Kim calls for more ‘practical, offensive’ war deterrence to counter US, South Korea The 30-metre-tall monument was symbolic of the three charters – self-reliance, peace and national cooperation, according to South Korean government records. The arch symbolised reunification plans through diplomacy put forward by Kim’s father. Since Kim Jong Un’s grandfather, Kim Il-Sung took over the premiership of the newly formed Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), North Korea’s official name, in 1948, he had hoped to reunify with South Korea. However, he took a different approach. Kim Il-Sung unlike his son tried to reunify Korea by force and launched an invasion of South Korea triggering the Korean War, which ended in a stalemate three years later. Rise in tensions between the two Koreas Earlier this month, in a speech at North Korea’s rubber-stamp parliament, Kim called for the country’s constitution to be changed to ensure that South Korea is defined as “the most hostile state,” reported the state media KCNA. According to Kim, the constitution should be amended to educate North Koreans that South Korea is a “primary foe and invariable principal enemy”. During the same speech, on January 15, he had also called the massive monument that his father constructed in Pyongyang an “eyesore” and vowed to get rid of it. ALSO READ | North Korea’s Kim calls for South Korea to be seen as ‘the most hostile state’, threatens war It was around the same time that North Korea had abolished agencies that oversaw cooperation and reunification, indicating that Kim was no longer interested in seeking reconciliation with South Korea. Additionally, three organisations dealing with unification and inter-Korean tourism were also shut down, the state media had reported, earlier this month. On January 15, Kim said Pyongyang would not recognise the two countries’ de facto maritime border, the Northern Limit Line (NLL). Last year, in April, the South Korean Unification Ministry said that North Korea had not responded to their regularly held calls, adding that this is the first time since October 2021 that all inter-Korean military lines or liaison calls have stopped for more than a day. The communication lines were first opened in 2018 when the two countries set up hotlines after a series of summits aimed at decreasing tensions in the region. However, it was not the first time that North Korea unilaterally shut down the communications links in a display of anger. The line was restored in July 2021 following North Korea’s shutdown for nearly a year after its anger over South Korean activists sending leaflets critical of Kim’s regime across the border by balloon. ALSO READ | Day after Seoul's claims, N Korea confirms Kim oversaw launch of cruise missiles from submarine The communication was cut off in 2023 also around the time when South Korea was holding drills with the United States, which North Korea has long viewed as an enemy. Pyongyang, which reportedly has nuclear weapons, also tested a record number of missiles last year. It also seems like it is going to be more of the same in 2024, as within the first month of the year, North Korea has already tested a number of missiles, including a cruise missile dubbed Pulhwasal-3-3, on January 24 and again on January 28. This was after North Korea had fired more than 200 artillery rounds near a disputed maritime border with South Korea prompting Seoul to take “corresponding” action with live fire drills. The exchange prompted the evacuation of nearly 2,000 residents of two remote South Korean islands to bomb shelters. An ‘unachieved wish’ Kim Jong Un was 26 years old when he took over North Korea, days after his father’s death, and like his predecessors, he too has ruled the country with an iron fist ever since. However, unlike his father and grandfather, the incumbent leader does not seem to be interested in the idea of reunification. Cho Han-bum, a researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification told AFP, earlier this month, that the North Korean system has long been grounded on the idea of reunification, an unachieved wish of the country’s founding leader and Kim’s grandfather Kim II Sung. “Now he is denying everything that his predecessors have done,” said Cho. Therefore, if confirmed, getting rid of his father’s monument would be a big step for Kim, who was known to be his favourite son and hence became his successor. However, it seems as though since his grandfather’s invasion and his father’s diplomacy did not work, Kim is charting his own course, which involves ramping up military rhetoric and posturing. ALSO READ | Explained | What is US-South Korea nuclear weapons deal about? Is this end of peace in Korean Peninsula? While reunification has long been on the North Korean agenda, Kim, earlier this month said that he had concluded that unification with the South was no longer possible and accused Seoul of seeking the collapse of his regime and unification by absorption. The Korea Institute for National Unification, a think-tank, said Kim has all but removed the ‘concept of unity’ from North Korean policy, reported Metro newspaper. Therefore, by reportedly removing the Arch of Reunification ‘the history of inter-Korean relations was completely denied’ and the ‘geopolitical risks’ to South Korea will continue to rise, analysts added. The US factor Pyongyang’s hatred towards Washington can be traced back to the Korean War where then-US President Harry Truman’s declaration prompted nearly two dozen countries to send troops and medical units to back South Korea, during the war. ALSO READ | 'Vow of revenge': North Koreans rally to mark 73rd anniversary of Korean War, denounce US Meanwhile, North Korea was supported by both the Soviet Union and China. Therefore, the alliances over the years have not changed all that much. Even today, Pyongyang maintains good relations with Beijing and Moscow. Except for Kim’s brief “bromance” with former US President Donald Trump when he was the commander-in-chief, not like the much-awaited meeting between the two leaders produced any tangible results. Meanwhile, the US and South Korea have conducted a number of drills amid Kim’s increasing military rhetoric and posturing. Last year, Washington, for the first time since the 1980s also deployed a nuclear-armed ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) to a South Korean port. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Kim Jong Un reportedly tears down father’s reunification monument. Why is it a big deal?

A day after South Korea claimed its notorious neighbour fired "several unidentified cruise missiles" off its east coast on Sunday (Jan 28), North Korea's state-run news agency KCNA confirmed its leader Kim Jong Un indeed oversaw the launch of Pulhwasal-3-31 missiles from a submarine.

A day after South Korea claimed its notorious neighbour fired "several unidentified cruise missiles" off its east coast on Sunday (Jan 28), North Korea's state-run news agency KCNA confirmed its leader Kim Jong Un indeed oversaw the launch of Pulhwasal-3-31 missiles from a submarine. The two Pulhwasal-3-31 missiles remained in the air for 7,421 seconds and 7,445 seconds, added KCNA, but refused to divulge how far they flew or whether they had been launched from above or below the water. North Korea said Sunday's test from the submarine "had no impact on the security of a neighbouring country and has nothing to do with the regional situation". The KCNA report mentioned Kim "expressed great satisfaction" with the launch. Sunday’s launches were North Korea’s third-known launch event of 2024, following a previous round of cruise missile tests on January 24 and January 14, which were the country’s first solid-fuel intermediate-range ballistic missiles. Also watch: Why did North Korea's Kim Jong Un not celebrate his 40th birthday? What did S Korea claim? On Sunday (Jan 28), the South Korean military said its neighbour had fired an unidentified cruise missile around the Sinpo area, days after it staged live-fire exercises near the tense maritime border. “Our military detected several unidentified cruise missiles fired near waters around North Korea's Sinpo area at 8:00 am today,” said the Joint Chiefs of Staff in a statement, as quoted by AFP. North Korea denounces US-South Korea drills Earlier on Sunday, Pyongyang denounced a series of military drills conducted by the US and South Korean troops in recent weeks and warned of “merciless” consequences. Also read | North Korea claims to have tested new strategic cruise missile ‘Pulhwasal-3-31’ “The reality that nuclear war exercises against our republic have been going on like crazy since the beginning of the New Year demands that we be fully prepared for a deadly war,” the dispatch said, as per Reuters. The launch also comes after Kim branded South Korea his principal enemy and warned he would not hesitate to annihilate Seoul, as he toured major weapons factories earlier this month. "The historic time has come at last when we should define as a state most hostile toward the Democratic People's Republic of Korea the entity called the Republic of Korea (South Korea)," said Kim. (With inputs from agencies)

Day after Seoul's claims, N Korea confirms Kim oversaw launch of cruise missiles from submarine

North Korea says Arch of Reunification disappeared from Pyongyang | World News | WION

North Korea has conducted a test of its underwater nuclear weapons system in a protest against this week's joint military drills by South Korea, the United States and Japan, state media KCNA said on Friday.

Tensions spiral in the Korean Peninsula | North Korea's underwater nuclear drone test

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Monday called for the constitution to be changed to ensure that South Korea is seen as the "primary foe" and warned his country did not intend to avoid war should it happen. North Korea should also plan for "Completely occupying, subjugating and reclaiming" South Korea in the event of a war, and South Koreans should also no longer be referred to as fellow countrymen, Kim added, calling for the severing of all inter-Korean communication.

North Korea's Kim Jong calls for South to be seen as 'primary foe'

Is North Korea preparing for war in 2024? North Korea's regime is once again ratcheting up its war rhetoric against South Korea and the US. This time, however, some analysts warn the threat goes beyond the usual bluster from Kim Jong-Un.

Kim Jong-Un brands South Korea primary foe & rules out unity

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Monday called for the constitution to be changed to ensure that South Korea is seen as the "primary foe" and warned his country did not intend to avoid war should it happen.

North Korea's Kim calls for South Korea to be seen as 'the most hostile state'

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for the country’s constitution to be changed to ensure that South Korea is defined as “the most hostile state,” reported the state media outlet KCNA on Tuesday (Jan 16). This comes after North Korea abolished agencies that oversaw cooperation and reunification with the South.&nbsp;

<h2>‘The most hostile state’</h2>

In a speech at the Supreme People’s Assembly – North Korea’s rubber-stamp parliament – the country’s leader made a number of remarks including a warning that he did not intend to avoid war should it happen.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;North Korea's Kim Jong calls for South to be seen as 'primary foe'

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Kim, according to KCNA, called for the framing of new legal measures to define South Korea as “the most hostile state”.

Kim also sought constitutional changes allowing the North to “occupy” Seoul in war.&nbsp;

“In my opinion, we can specify in our constitution the issue of completely occupying, subjugating and reclaiming the ROK (Republic of Korea) and annex it as a part of the territory of our Republic in case a war breaks out on the Korean peninsula,” said the North Korean leader.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-brands-seoul-principal-enemy-on-weapons-factory-tour-678716">North Korean leader Kim brands Seoul ‘principal enemy’ during weapons factory tour</a>

He also went on to threaten South Korea with war if “even 0.001 mm” of the North’s territory is violated. “If the Republic of Korea violates even 0.001 mm of our territorial land, air and waters, it will be considered a war provocation.”&nbsp;

“We don’t want war but we have no intention of avoiding it,” said Kim as quoted by KCNA.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Primary foe’</h2>

The strongly-worded speech came after Pyongyang abolished agencies that oversaw cooperation and reunification indicating that it was no longer interested in seeking reconciliation with South Korea.&nbsp;

According to the state media, three organisations dealing with unification and inter-Korean tourism would also be shut down.&nbsp;

Kim said that he had concluded that unification with the South was no longer possible and accused South Korea of seeking the collapse of his regime and unification by absorption.&nbsp;

He also said Pyongyang would not recognise the two countries’ de facto maritime border, the Northern Limit Line (NLL), reported KCNA.&nbsp;

In what could be seen as a symbolic move, Kim has vowed to get rid of the massive monument to the possible reunification of the Korean Peninsula that his father constructed in Pyongyang after calling it an “eyesore”.&nbsp;

According to Kim, the constitution should be amended to educate North Koreans that South Korea is a “primary foe and invariable principal enemy”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-to-welcome-russian-tourists-amid-backlash-over-harsh-covid-restrictions-679250">North Korea to welcome Russian tourists for first time since harsh Covid restrictions</a>

Cho Han-bum, a researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification told AFP that the North Korean system has long been grounded on the idea of reunification, an unachieved wish of the country’s founding leader and Kim’s grandfather Kim II Sung.&nbsp;

“Now he is denying everything that his predecessors have done,” said Cho.&nbsp;

<h2>South Korea to not back down</h2>

Following threats by Kim, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol told his cabinet on Tuesday (Jan 16) that should North Korea carry out a provocation, Seoul would hit back with a response “multiple times stronger”.&nbsp;

“If North Korea carries out a provocation, we will retaliate multiple times stronger,” said Yoon, in a meeting broadcast on television, pointing to their military’s “overwhelming response capabilities.”&nbsp;

He also went on to call Kim’s rejection of the NLL “a political provocative act to crack South Korea and make our people nervous.”

Earlier this month, North Korea fired around 200 artillery rounds near the disputed maritime border.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for the country’s constitution to be changed to ensure that South Korea is defined as “the most hostile state,” reported the state media outlet KCNA on Tuesday (Jan 16).

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for the country’s constitution to be changed to ensure that South Korea is defined as “the most hostile state,” reported the state media outlet KCNA on Tuesday (Jan 16). This comes after North Korea abolished agencies that oversaw cooperation and reunification with the South. ‘The most hostile state’ In a speech at the Supreme People’s Assembly – North Korea’s rubber-stamp parliament – the country’s leader made a number of remarks including a warning that he did not intend to avoid war should it happen. WATCH | North Korea's Kim Jong calls for South to be seen as 'primary foe' Kim, according to KCNA, called for the framing of new legal measures to define South Korea as “the most hostile state”. Kim also sought constitutional changes allowing the North to “occupy” Seoul in war. “In my opinion, we can specify in our constitution the issue of completely occupying, subjugating and reclaiming the ROK (Republic of Korea) and annex it as a part of the territory of our Republic in case a war breaks out on the Korean peninsula,” said the North Korean leader. ALSO READ | North Korean leader Kim brands Seoul ‘principal enemy’ during weapons factory tour He also went on to threaten South Korea with war if “even 0.001 mm” of the North’s territory is violated. “If the Republic of Korea violates even 0.001 mm of our territorial land, air and waters, it will be considered a war provocation.” “We don’t want war but we have no intention of avoiding it,” said Kim as quoted by KCNA. ‘Primary foe’ The strongly-worded speech came after Pyongyang abolished agencies that oversaw cooperation and reunification indicating that it was no longer interested in seeking reconciliation with South Korea. According to the state media, three organisations dealing with unification and inter-Korean tourism would also be shut down. Kim said that he had concluded that unification with the South was no longer possible and accused South Korea of seeking the collapse of his regime and unification by absorption. He also said Pyongyang would not recognise the two countries’ de facto maritime border, the Northern Limit Line (NLL), reported KCNA. In what could be seen as a symbolic move, Kim has vowed to get rid of the massive monument to the possible reunification of the Korean Peninsula that his father constructed in Pyongyang after calling it an “eyesore”. According to Kim, the constitution should be amended to educate North Koreans that South Korea is a “primary foe and invariable principal enemy”. ALSO READ | North Korea to welcome Russian tourists for first time since harsh Covid restrictions Cho Han-bum, a researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification told AFP that the North Korean system has long been grounded on the idea of reunification, an unachieved wish of the country’s founding leader and Kim’s grandfather Kim II Sung. “Now he is denying everything that his predecessors have done,” said Cho. South Korea to not back down Following threats by Kim, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol told his cabinet on Tuesday (Jan 16) that should North Korea carry out a provocation, Seoul would hit back with a response “multiple times stronger”. “If North Korea carries out a provocation, we will retaliate multiple times stronger,” said Yoon, in a meeting broadcast on television, pointing to their military’s “overwhelming response capabilities.” He also went on to call Kim’s rejection of the NLL “a political provocative act to crack South Korea and make our people nervous.” Earlier this month, North Korea fired around 200 artillery rounds near the disputed maritime border. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea’s Kim calls for South Korea to be seen as ‘the most hostile state’, threatens war

North Korean leader Kim warns of a war with South Korea

Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has denied claims made by South Korea that&nbsp;Pyongyang fired dozens of artillery rounds near their border on Saturday (Jan 6).&nbsp;

Seoul's military had claimed that North Korea fired over&nbsp;60 artillery rounds near Yeonpyeong Island which landed in a buffer zone, set up under an inter-Korean military accord signed on Sept&nbsp;19, 2018, to reduce border tensions.

"Our military did not fire a single shell into the water area,"&nbsp;Kim Yo Jong was quoted as saying by state news agency KCNA.&nbsp;

She added that the military had instead detonated explosives that simulated the sound of gunfire 60 times and "watched the reaction" of the South Korean forces who mistook them for missiles.&nbsp;

"The result was exactly as we expected. They misjudged the sound of explosives as gunfire, assumed it was an artillery fire provocation, and shamelessly made up a lie," she added.&nbsp;

"In the future, they will misjudge even the rumbling sound of thunder in the northern sky as artillery fire from our military," she said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tensions-in-korean-peninsula-north-korea-conducts-artillery-drills-near-south-korean-islands-wion-676856">Watch |&nbsp;Tensions in Korean Peninsula: North Korea conducts artillery drills near South Korean islands</a>

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<h2>South Korea warns civilians</h2>

Notably, South Korea on Friday told civilians on Yeonpyeong Island, located about 115 km east of Seoul in terms of aerial distance,&nbsp;to evacuate after North Korea fired around 200 artillery shells off its west coast.

"About 200 shots were fired by North Korea (near) Yeonpyeong Island," a defence ministry official said at a briefing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-sister-calls-out-usa-for-double-standards-over-n-koreas-spy-satellite-664463">Also read |&nbsp;Kim Jong Un’s sister calls out USA for 'double standards' over N Korea's spy satellite</a>

Hours later, South Korean defence ministry described it as a&nbsp;"provocative act" and urged North to stop, warning Seoul would take "appropriate measures" in response.

The shells reportedly splashed into the maritime buffer zone north of the Northern Limit Line (NLL), the de facto maritime border between both Koreas in the Yellow Sea.

On Sunday afternoon (Jan 7), South Korea media reports, citing military sources, claimed that North Korea had once again fired shots into the sea north of&nbsp;Yeonpyeong island.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has denied claims made by South Korea that Pyongyang fired dozens of artillery rounds near their border on Saturday (Jan 6).

Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has denied claims made by South Korea that Pyongyang fired dozens of artillery rounds near their border on Saturday (Jan 6). Seoul's military had claimed that North Korea fired over 60 artillery rounds near Yeonpyeong Island which landed in a buffer zone, set up under an inter-Korean military accord signed on Sept 19, 2018, to reduce border tensions. "Our military did not fire a single shell into the water area," Kim Yo Jong was quoted as saying by state news agency KCNA. She added that the military had instead detonated explosives that simulated the sound of gunfire 60 times and "watched the reaction" of the South Korean forces who mistook them for missiles. "The result was exactly as we expected. They misjudged the sound of explosives as gunfire, assumed it was an artillery fire provocation, and shamelessly made up a lie," she added. "In the future, they will misjudge even the rumbling sound of thunder in the northern sky as artillery fire from our military," she said. Watch | Tensions in Korean Peninsula: North Korea conducts artillery drills near South Korean islands × South Korea warns civilians Notably, South Korea on Friday told civilians on Yeonpyeong Island, located about 115 km east of Seoul in terms of aerial distance, to evacuate after North Korea fired around 200 artillery shells off its west coast. "About 200 shots were fired by North Korea (near) Yeonpyeong Island," a defence ministry official said at a briefing. Also read | Kim Jong Un’s sister calls out USA for 'double standards' over N Korea's spy satellite Hours later, South Korean defence ministry described it as a "provocative act" and urged North to stop, warning Seoul would take "appropriate measures" in response. The shells reportedly splashed into the maritime buffer zone north of the Northern Limit Line (NLL), the de facto maritime border between both Koreas in the Yellow Sea. On Sunday afternoon (Jan 7), South Korea media reports, citing military sources, claimed that North Korea had once again fired shots into the sea north of Yeonpyeong island. (With inputs from agencies)

Kim Jong Un’s sister claims S Korea 'misjudged' sound of explosives as artillery fire

North Korea on Friday (Jan 5) said that it had carried out naval artillery live-fire exercises as a "natural response and countermeasure" to South Korean drills, condemning Seoul's claim that it had threatened peace on the Korean Peninsula, state media reported.

Pyongyang's drills did "not even have any indirect impact on Baengnyeong Island and Yeonpyeong Island", where residents were told to evacuate by local authorities, according to KCNA's report.

South Korea had on Friday told civilians on Yeonpyeong Island, located about 115km east of Seoul in terms of aerial distance,&nbsp;to evacuate after North Korea fired around 200 artillery shells off its west coast.

"About 200 shots were fired by North Korea (near) Yeonpyeong Island," a defence ministry official said at a briefing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-us-conduct-week-long-wargames-near-north-korea-border-676450">South Korea, US conduct week-long wargames near North Korea border</a>

Yeonpyeong local officials told news agency AFP that civilians had been asked to evacuate.

Hours later, South Korean defence ministry described it as a&nbsp;"provocative act" and urged North to stop, warning Seoul would take "appropriate measures" in response.

The shells reportedly splashed into the maritime buffer zone north of the Northern Limit Line (NLL), the de facto maritime border between both Koreas in the Yellow Sea.

Also watch |&nbsp;North Korea: Allies pushing region into brink of Nuclear War

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The buffer zone was set under an inter-Korean military accord signed on Sept&nbsp;19, 2018, to reduce border tensions.

"We gravely warn that the entire responsibility of such crisis-escalating situations lies with North Korea and strongly urge for its immediate halt," JCS spokesperson Col. Lee Sung-jun said in a press conference.

"Under close coordination between South Korea and the United States, our military is tracking and monitoring related activity, and will conduct corresponding measures to North Korea's provocations."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-us-conduct-week-long-wargames-near-north-korea-border-676450">South Korea, US conduct week-long wargames near North Korea border</a>

<h2>South Korea stages live-fire drills on border island</h2>

South Korean marines on the border island of Yeonpyeong conducted live-fire artillery drills on Friday (Jan 5), as per the Yonhap news agency reports.&nbsp;

This came hours after North Korea staged an artillery barrage in the area.

The troops held "live-fire artillery drills with K9 self-propelled howitzers," Yonhap said, the first such drills in the area since both countries dropped a military accord in November.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea on Friday (Jan 5) said that it had carried out naval artillery live-fire exercises as a "natural response and countermeasure" to South Korean drills, condemning Seoul's claim that it had threatened peace on the Korean Peninsula, state media reported.

North Korea on Friday (Jan 5) said that it had carried out naval artillery live-fire exercises as a "natural response and countermeasure" to South Korean drills, condemning Seoul's claim that it had threatened peace on the Korean Peninsula, state media reported. Pyongyang's drills did "not even have any indirect impact on Baengnyeong Island and Yeonpyeong Island", where residents were told to evacuate by local authorities, according to KCNA's report. South Korea had on Friday told civilians on Yeonpyeong Island, located about 115km east of Seoul in terms of aerial distance, to evacuate after North Korea fired around 200 artillery shells off its west coast. "About 200 shots were fired by North Korea (near) Yeonpyeong Island," a defence ministry official said at a briefing. Also read | South Korea, US conduct week-long wargames near North Korea border Yeonpyeong local officials told news agency AFP that civilians had been asked to evacuate. Hours later, South Korean defence ministry described it as a "provocative act" and urged North to stop, warning Seoul would take "appropriate measures" in response. The shells reportedly splashed into the maritime buffer zone north of the Northern Limit Line (NLL), the de facto maritime border between both Koreas in the Yellow Sea. Also watch | North Korea: Allies pushing region into brink of Nuclear War × The buffer zone was set under an inter-Korean military accord signed on Sept 19, 2018, to reduce border tensions. "We gravely warn that the entire responsibility of such crisis-escalating situations lies with North Korea and strongly urge for its immediate halt," JCS spokesperson Col. Lee Sung-jun said in a press conference. "Under close coordination between South Korea and the United States, our military is tracking and monitoring related activity, and will conduct corresponding measures to North Korea's provocations." Also read: South Korea, US conduct week-long wargames near North Korea border South Korea stages live-fire drills on border island South Korean marines on the border island of Yeonpyeong conducted live-fire artillery drills on Friday (Jan 5), as per the Yonhap news agency reports. This came hours after North Korea staged an artillery barrage in the area. The troops held "live-fire artillery drills with K9 self-propelled howitzers," Yonhap said, the first such drills in the area since both countries dropped a military accord in November. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea says live-fire drills 'natural response' to South Korea threats

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un Friday (Jan 5) called for increasing the production of missile launchers while visiting a factory, said the state media.&nbsp;

The orders were given by the North Korean leader as the country prepares for a “military showdown” with South Korea as well as the United States.&nbsp;

During his factory visit, North Korea’s Kim Jong Un said that increasing the production of missile launch vehicles is an important task for completing preparations for a “military showdown” with the enemy, reported the state media.&nbsp;

Kim, who was visiting a transporter erector launcher (TEL) manufacturing factory, said that the production of different vehicles for strategic and tactical weapons was an important task in bolstering the nuclear war deterrent of the country, reported KCNA news agency.&nbsp;

"Stressing that the factory's position and role are very important ... given the prevailing grave situation that requires the country to be more firmly prepared for a military showdown with the enemy, he indicated the tasks to be fulfilled by the factory," KCNA reported.&nbsp;

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In the images released by the state media, Kim was seen touring the factory along with his young daughter Ju Ae in tow that produces transport erector launchers (TELs) which have been used in the banned intercontinental ballistic missiles of the country, before hailing a "dynamic drive for increased production" of the weapons.

Speaking to workers, Kim said that increasing TEL production capacity was important "given the prevailing grave situation that requires the country to be more firmly prepared for a military showdown with the enemy," said KCNA.

"He specified the immediate plan for the production of varieties of TELs, long-term production plan and the task of production capacity expansion" to strengthen the country's nuclear war deterrence, the report said.

<h2>White House says North Korea provides ballistic missiles and launchers to Russia</h2>

The report was published hours after the White House stated that Pyongyang had provided ballistic missiles and launchers to Russia which were used in the recent attacks carried out on cities in Ukraine.

Watch:&nbsp;South Korea, US hold firing drills near North Korea border

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For months, Washington has accused Pyongyang of providing military equipment to Moscow in return for technical support provided by Russia to North Korea for advancing its military capabilities. However, North Korea has denied transferring arms to Moscow.

In a key party meeting last week, the country's military, nuclear weapons sector and munitions industry were ordered by Kim to accelerate war preparations, as the leader said that the policies of the United States have been making war inevitable.

"(Kim) specified the immediate plan for the production of varieties of TELs, long-term production plan and task of production capacity," reported KCNA.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un Friday (Jan 5) called for increasing the production of missile launchers while visiting a factory, said the state media. The orders were given by the North Korean leader as the country prepares for a “military showdown” with South Korea as well as the United States.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un Friday (Jan 5) called for increasing the production of missile launchers while visiting a factory, said the state media. The orders were given by the North Korean leader as the country prepares for a “military showdown” with South Korea as well as the United States. During his factory visit, North Korea’s Kim Jong Un said that increasing the production of missile launch vehicles is an important task for completing preparations for a “military showdown” with the enemy, reported the state media. Kim, who was visiting a transporter erector launcher (TEL) manufacturing factory, said that the production of different vehicles for strategic and tactical weapons was an important task in bolstering the nuclear war deterrent of the country, reported KCNA news agency. "Stressing that the factory's position and role are very important ... given the prevailing grave situation that requires the country to be more firmly prepared for a military showdown with the enemy, he indicated the tasks to be fulfilled by the factory," KCNA reported. Also read: US claims North Korea supplied Russia with missiles for Ukraine attacks In the images released by the state media, Kim was seen touring the factory along with his young daughter Ju Ae in tow that produces transport erector launchers (TELs) which have been used in the banned intercontinental ballistic missiles of the country, before hailing a "dynamic drive for increased production" of the weapons. Speaking to workers, Kim said that increasing TEL production capacity was important "given the prevailing grave situation that requires the country to be more firmly prepared for a military showdown with the enemy," said KCNA. "He specified the immediate plan for the production of varieties of TELs, long-term production plan and the task of production capacity expansion" to strengthen the country's nuclear war deterrence, the report said. White House says North Korea provides ballistic missiles and launchers to Russia The report was published hours after the White House stated that Pyongyang had provided ballistic missiles and launchers to Russia which were used in the recent attacks carried out on cities in Ukraine. Watch: South Korea, US hold firing drills near North Korea border For months, Washington has accused Pyongyang of providing military equipment to Moscow in return for technical support provided by Russia to North Korea for advancing its military capabilities. However, North Korea has denied transferring arms to Moscow. In a key party meeting last week, the country's military, nuclear weapons sector and munitions industry were ordered by Kim to accelerate war preparations, as the leader said that the policies of the United States have been making war inevitable. "(Kim) specified the immediate plan for the production of varieties of TELs, long-term production plan and task of production capacity," reported KCNA. (With inputs from agencies)

Kim Jong Un calls for more production of missile launchers amid US-South Korea wargames

North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un's daughter Kim Ju Ae is his "most likely" successor, said the&nbsp;spy agency of South Korea. Kim Ju Ae has accompanied her father to missile tests and military parades in the recent past in what is&nbsp;widely interpreted as a sign of the North Korean establishment grooming Ju Ae as the next potential leader of the country.&nbsp;

But this is the first time South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) has acknowledged Kim Ju Ae as Mr Kim's heir.

The NIS also added that it was still considering "all possibilities" of&nbsp;Kim Jong Un's succession plan.

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</a>

"Based on a comprehensive analysis of public activities and the level of respect for Kim Ju Ae since her initial public appearance, at present, she appears to be the most likely successor," said the NIS.

"But we are keeping our eyes open for all possibilities because Kim Jong Un is still young, has no major health problems, and there are many variables," it added.

<h2>Kim Jong Un's succession plan</h2>

Kim&nbsp;Ju Ae is thought to be the North Korean leader's second oldest child and is believed to be about 10 years of age.

South Korea's unification minister, Kim Yung-ho had made a similar claim last month about Pyongang's succession plan.

"The continuous emphasis on Kim Jong Un's daughter can be seen as evidence that North Korea is hastening to showcase succession intentions amid difficult internal circumstances," he said.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Who will be Kim Jong-un's successor?

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Kim accompanied her father to the December launch of North Korea's Hwasong-18 solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

She was also by Kim Jong Un's side when North Korea launched its Malligyong-1 spy satellite into orbit in November 2023.

Kim Jong Un's existence was first mentioned in 2013 after retired American basketball star Dennis Rodman visited North Korea.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un's daughter Kim Ju Ae is his "most likely" successor, said the spy agency of South Korea. Kim Ju Ae has accompanied her father to missile tests and military parades in the recent past in what is widely interpreted as a sign of the North Korean establishment grooming Ju Ae as the next potential leader of the country.

North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un's daughter Kim Ju Ae is his "most likely" successor, said the spy agency of South Korea. Kim Ju Ae has accompanied her father to missile tests and military parades in the recent past in what is widely interpreted as a sign of the North Korean establishment grooming Ju Ae as the next potential leader of the country. But this is the first time South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) has acknowledged Kim Ju Ae as Mr Kim's heir. The NIS also added that it was still considering "all possibilities" of Kim Jong Un's succession plan. Also read | Kim Jong-un deliberately faked his death to expose traitors in his circle "Based on a comprehensive analysis of public activities and the level of respect for Kim Ju Ae since her initial public appearance, at present, she appears to be the most likely successor," said the NIS. "But we are keeping our eyes open for all possibilities because Kim Jong Un is still young, has no major health problems, and there are many variables," it added. Kim Jong Un's succession plan Kim Ju Ae is thought to be the North Korean leader's second oldest child and is believed to be about 10 years of age. South Korea's unification minister, Kim Yung-ho had made a similar claim last month about Pyongang's succession plan. "The continuous emphasis on Kim Jong Un's daughter can be seen as evidence that North Korea is hastening to showcase succession intentions amid difficult internal circumstances," he said. Also watch | Gravitas: Who will be Kim Jong-un's successor? × Kim accompanied her father to the December launch of North Korea's Hwasong-18 solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). She was also by Kim Jong Un's side when North Korea launched its Malligyong-1 spy satellite into orbit in November 2023. Kim Jong Un's existence was first mentioned in 2013 after retired American basketball star Dennis Rodman visited North Korea. (With inputs from agencies)

Kim Jong Un's 10-year-old daughter 'most likely' to succeed him: South Korean intelligence

Tensions are rising in the Korean peninsula and the evacuation order has been issued in South Korean border island due to North Korean provocation. The orders have been issued by the South Korean military.

Tensions in Korean Peninsula: Kim Jong-Un vows to expand North Korea's nuclear arsenal

South Korean and U.S. troops have conducted joint combat firing drills near the border with North Korea involving heavy weapons, as Pyongyang lambasted the allies for dangerous moves pushing the region to the brink of "an inferno of nuclear war."

The exercise by a South Korean Army mechanised infantry brigade and U.S. Army armoured Stryker brigade was to test and enhance combat readiness simulating enemy aggression, South Korea said in a statement on Thursday.

The drills took place over a week starting on Dec. 29 and ended on Thursday, the South Korean Army said.

The allies have dramatically increased the scale and intensity of joint drills in the past year amid escalating tension on the Korean peninsula as Pyongyang tested both long-range ballistic missiles and tactical weapons designed to strike targets in the South and the Pacific.

The U.S. has also deployed more military assets near the Korean peninsula including a nuclear missile submarine, aircraft carriers and large bombers.

Wrapping up a major ruling party meeting, leader Kim Jong Un on Saturday lashed out at Washington for deploying large weapons and vowed to increase the North's nuclear arsenal and grow attack capabilities to "pacify the South."

The North called the joint firing drills "reckless war manoeuvres" and mocked South Korea for backing Washington's hegemonic ambitions "when it has no chance of winning or survival."

"With the instinct of confrontation deep in their bones, the puppets again marked the new year by making the aggressive choice that stokes war," the North's official KCNA news agency said in a commentary.

"2024 is the year of the highest risk of conflict," it said.

The joint drills involved more than 110 large combat weapons including South Korean army tanks, anti-aircraft artillery and combat earthmovers supported by U.S. military attack aircraft and armoured fighting vehicles, the Army said.

South Korea's navy on Wednesday conducted live firing drills and anti-submarine manoeuvres in the waters in the east, west and the south involving destroyers, frigates and corvettes, the navy said.

South Korean and U.S. troops have conducted joint combat firing drills near the border with North Korea involving heavy weapons, as Pyongyang lambasted the allies for dangerous moves pushing the region to the brink of "an inferno of nuclear war.

South Korean and U.S. troops have conducted joint combat firing drills near the border with North Korea involving heavy weapons, as Pyongyang lambasted the allies for dangerous moves pushing the region to the brink of "an inferno of nuclear war." The exercise by a South Korean Army mechanised infantry brigade and U.S. Army armoured Stryker brigade was to test and enhance combat readiness simulating enemy aggression, South Korea said in a statement on Thursday. The drills took place over a week starting on Dec. 29 and ended on Thursday, the South Korean Army said. The allies have dramatically increased the scale and intensity of joint drills in the past year amid escalating tension on the Korean peninsula as Pyongyang tested both long-range ballistic missiles and tactical weapons designed to strike targets in the South and the Pacific. The U.S. has also deployed more military assets near the Korean peninsula including a nuclear missile submarine, aircraft carriers and large bombers. Wrapping up a major ruling party meeting, leader Kim Jong Un on Saturday lashed out at Washington for deploying large weapons and vowed to increase the North's nuclear arsenal and grow attack capabilities to "pacify the South." The North called the joint firing drills "reckless war manoeuvres" and mocked South Korea for backing Washington's hegemonic ambitions "when it has no chance of winning or survival." "With the instinct of confrontation deep in their bones, the puppets again marked the new year by making the aggressive choice that stokes war," the North's official KCNA news agency said in a commentary. "2024 is the year of the highest risk of conflict," it said. The joint drills involved more than 110 large combat weapons including South Korean army tanks, anti-aircraft artillery and combat earthmovers supported by U.S. military attack aircraft and armoured fighting vehicles, the Army said. South Korea's navy on Wednesday conducted live firing drills and anti-submarine manoeuvres in the waters in the east, west and the south involving destroyers, frigates and corvettes, the navy said.

South Korea, US conduct week-long wargames near North Korea border

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un ended 2023 with a list of new threats ordering his military to prepare for a war that he says can break out at any time on the Korean Peninsula. It's no shock that Kim's lengthy speech included criticism of the joint military cooperation between the United States and South Korea.

North Korea's Supreme Leader Kim Jong-Un orders military to prepare for war

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un wrapped up the year with fresh threats of a nuclear attack on Seoul and orders for a military arsenal build-up to prepare for a war that can "break out any time" on the peninsula, state media reported Sunday.

Kim lambasted the United States during a lengthy speech at the end of five days of year-end party meetings that set his country's military, political and economic policy decisions for 2024.

The meeting announced plans for further military development in the coming year, including launching three more spy satellites, building unmanned drones and developing electronic warfare capabilities, as well as strengthening nuclear and missile forces, according to the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

This year, Pyongyang successfully launched a reconnaissance satellite, enshrined its status as a nuclear power in its constitution and test-fired the most advanced intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) in its arsenal.

Kim accused the United States of posing "various forms of military threat" and ordered his armed forces to maintain the "overwhelming war response capability", according to KCNA's account of the meeting that ended on Saturday.

The meeting concluded that it is a "fait accompli that a war may break out on the Korean peninsula any time due to the enemies' reckless moves for invading the DPRK," KCNA said, using the acronym of the North's official name.

In an effort to deter Pyongyang, Washington deployed a nuclear-powered submarine in the South Korean port city of Busan this month and flew its long-range bombers in drills with Seoul and Tokyo.

The North has described the deployment of Washington's strategic weapons, such as B-52 bombers, in joint drills on the Korean peninsula as "intentional nuclear war provocative moves".

The military "should rapidly respond to any possible nuclear crisis and put continuous spurs to the preparations for a great event to suppress the whole territory of south Korea by mobilising all physical means and forces including nuclear forces in contingency," Kim said.

<h2>'Uncontrollable crisis'</h2>

Kim told the meeting he would no longer seek reconciliation and reunification with South Korea, noting the "uncontrollable crisis" that he said was triggered by Seoul and Washington.

Inter-Korean relations have deteriorated to a low point this year, with Pyongyang's spy satellite launch prompting Seoul to partially suspend a 2018 military agreement aimed at defusing tensions.

Kim said it would be a mistake to regard South Korea "who publicly defined us as the 'principal enemy'... as the partner of reconciliation and reunification", according to KCNA.

Kim also ordered the drawing-up of measures for reorganising departments handling cross-border affairs to "fundamentally change the principle".

Leif Easley, a professor of international relations at Ewha University in Seoul, said the emphasis on North Korea's "significant military capabilities" was likely aimed at hiding its poor economic achievements this year.

"Much of what state-controlled media publishes is recycled propaganda," he said, adding. "Pyongyang's bellicose rhetoric suggests its military moves are not only about deterrence but also domestic politics and international coercion."&nbsp;

Pyongyang declared itself an "irreversible" nuclear power in 2022 and has repeatedly said it will never give up its nuclear weapons programme, which the regime views as essential for its survival.

The United Nations Security Council has adopted many resolutions calling on North Korea to halt its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes since Pyongyang first conducted a nuclear test in 2006.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un wrapped up the year with fresh threats of a nuclear attack on Seoul and orders for a military arsenal build-up to prepare for a war that can "break out any time" on the peninsula, state media reported Sunday.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un wrapped up the year with fresh threats of a nuclear attack on Seoul and orders for a military arsenal build-up to prepare for a war that can "break out any time" on the peninsula, state media reported Sunday. Kim lambasted the United States during a lengthy speech at the end of five days of year-end party meetings that set his country's military, political and economic policy decisions for 2024. The meeting announced plans for further military development in the coming year, including launching three more spy satellites, building unmanned drones and developing electronic warfare capabilities, as well as strengthening nuclear and missile forces, according to the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). This year, Pyongyang successfully launched a reconnaissance satellite, enshrined its status as a nuclear power in its constitution and test-fired the most advanced intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) in its arsenal. Kim accused the United States of posing "various forms of military threat" and ordered his armed forces to maintain the "overwhelming war response capability", according to KCNA's account of the meeting that ended on Saturday. The meeting concluded that it is a "fait accompli that a war may break out on the Korean peninsula any time due to the enemies' reckless moves for invading the DPRK," KCNA said, using the acronym of the North's official name. In an effort to deter Pyongyang, Washington deployed a nuclear-powered submarine in the South Korean port city of Busan this month and flew its long-range bombers in drills with Seoul and Tokyo. The North has described the deployment of Washington's strategic weapons, such as B-52 bombers, in joint drills on the Korean peninsula as "intentional nuclear war provocative moves". The military "should rapidly respond to any possible nuclear crisis and put continuous spurs to the preparations for a great event to suppress the whole territory of south Korea by mobilising all physical means and forces including nuclear forces in contingency," Kim said. 'Uncontrollable crisis' Kim told the meeting he would no longer seek reconciliation and reunification with South Korea, noting the "uncontrollable crisis" that he said was triggered by Seoul and Washington. Inter-Korean relations have deteriorated to a low point this year, with Pyongyang's spy satellite launch prompting Seoul to partially suspend a 2018 military agreement aimed at defusing tensions. Kim said it would be a mistake to regard South Korea "who publicly defined us as the 'principal enemy'... as the partner of reconciliation and reunification", according to KCNA. Kim also ordered the drawing-up of measures for reorganising departments handling cross-border affairs to "fundamentally change the principle". Leif Easley, a professor of international relations at Ewha University in Seoul, said the emphasis on North Korea's "significant military capabilities" was likely aimed at hiding its poor economic achievements this year. "Much of what state-controlled media publishes is recycled propaganda," he said, adding. "Pyongyang's bellicose rhetoric suggests its military moves are not only about deterrence but also domestic politics and international coercion." Pyongyang declared itself an "irreversible" nuclear power in 2022 and has repeatedly said it will never give up its nuclear weapons programme, which the regime views as essential for its survival. The United Nations Security Council has adopted many resolutions calling on North Korea to halt its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes since Pyongyang first conducted a nuclear test in 2006.

Kim Jong Un accuses US of posing 'military threat', orders military to prepare for possible 'war'

Chinese leader Xi Jinping exchanged congratulations with US President Joe Biden on the 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries, the Chinese foreign ministry said in an official readout on Monday (Jan 1, 2024).&nbsp;

Xi, in his message, said both countries have "weathered the storms and moved forward in general", which has enhanced the well-being of their people&nbsp;and contributed to world peace, stability, and prosperity, according to the Chinese foreign&nbsp;ministry statement.

Xi called China and the US forming ties "a major event" in the history of bilateral relations and international relations.

<h2>China-US ties in recent past</h2>

China-US ties remain frosty&nbsp;but Biden administration officials have visited Beijing and met with their counterparts to rebuild communications. Starting with former US foreign policy hawk Henry Kissinger's Beijing visit in July amid heightened chip wars, these&nbsp;diplomatic efforts culminated in a meeting between Xi and Biden in San Francisco in November.

Xi said the summit has pointed towards a tie between both the nations, under a future-oriented vision.

"I am willing to work with President Biden to continue to steer and navigate the China-U.S. relationship for the benefit of China and the US and the two peoples, and to promote the cause of world peace and development," Xi said.

The US is scheduled to hold&nbsp;presidential election in November, in which former president and outspoken critic of China Donald Trump is campaigning against Biden to return&nbsp;for a second term.

<h2>Xi dials Kim Jong-Un, Vladimir Putin&nbsp;as well</h2>

Xi also exchanged New Year's messages with North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un. The leaders announced 2024 to be a "friendship year" for both countries, launching a series of activities for that, the Chinese foreign ministry said separately.

Also watch |&nbsp;Vladimir Putin hails Russia-China relations during his China visit

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Xi said China is willing to work with North Korea to deepen strategic mutual trust, enhance exchanges and cooperation, promote greater bilateral ties, and make new contributions to the maintenance of peace and stability in the region.

On New Year's Eve, the Chinese leader exchanged greetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin as well. This year is the 75th anniversary of China and Russia establishing diplomatic relations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-will-surely-be-reunified-says-president-xi-jinping-in-new-years-speech-675342">Xi Jinping makes most direct threat so far to annex Taiwan in New Year's speech</a>

Xi said China and Russia should "continuously consolidate" and develop ties "featuring permanent good-neighbourly friendship", along with comprehensive strategic coordination and mutually beneficial cooperation that would serve the interest of both the countries.

Xi in his New Year's address on Sunday also said that China's "reunification" with Taiwan is inevitable, threatening its sovereign existence.&nbsp;

Chinese leader Xi Jinping exchanged congratulations with US President Joe Biden on the 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries, the Chinese foreign ministry said in an official readout on Monday (Jan 1, 2024).

Chinese leader Xi Jinping exchanged congratulations with US President Joe Biden on the 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries, the Chinese foreign ministry said in an official readout on Monday (Jan 1, 2024). Xi, in his message, said both countries have "weathered the storms and moved forward in general", which has enhanced the well-being of their people and contributed to world peace, stability, and prosperity, according to the Chinese foreign ministry statement. Xi called China and the US forming ties "a major event" in the history of bilateral relations and international relations. China-US ties in recent past China-US ties remain frosty but Biden administration officials have visited Beijing and met with their counterparts to rebuild communications. Starting with former US foreign policy hawk Henry Kissinger's Beijing visit in July amid heightened chip wars, these diplomatic efforts culminated in a meeting between Xi and Biden in San Francisco in November. Xi said the summit has pointed towards a tie between both the nations, under a future-oriented vision. "I am willing to work with President Biden to continue to steer and navigate the China-U.S. relationship for the benefit of China and the US and the two peoples, and to promote the cause of world peace and development," Xi said. The US is scheduled to hold presidential election in November, in which former president and outspoken critic of China Donald Trump is campaigning against Biden to return for a second term. Xi dials Kim Jong-Un, Vladimir Putin as well Xi also exchanged New Year's messages with North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un. The leaders announced 2024 to be a "friendship year" for both countries, launching a series of activities for that, the Chinese foreign ministry said separately. Also watch | Vladimir Putin hails Russia-China relations during his China visit × Xi said China is willing to work with North Korea to deepen strategic mutual trust, enhance exchanges and cooperation, promote greater bilateral ties, and make new contributions to the maintenance of peace and stability in the region. On New Year's Eve, the Chinese leader exchanged greetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin as well. This year is the 75th anniversary of China and Russia establishing diplomatic relations. Also read | Xi Jinping makes most direct threat so far to annex Taiwan in New Year's speech Xi said China and Russia should "continuously consolidate" and develop ties "featuring permanent good-neighbourly friendship", along with comprehensive strategic coordination and mutually beneficial cooperation that would serve the interest of both the countries. Xi in his New Year's address on Sunday also said that China's "reunification" with Taiwan is inevitable, threatening its sovereign existence.

China's Xi dials Biden, Putin and Kim Jong-Un to extend New Year greetings

Top North Korean officials were seen attending leader Kim Jong Un’s year-end political meeting in swag, as several of them reportedly arrived in luxurious Mercedes S-class vehicles, despite a ban on luxury goods as a part of the United Nations imposed sanctions.&nbsp;

The 8th central committee of the North Korean Workers’ Party gathered in the country’s capital Pyongyang and kicked off its 9th plenary meeting, on Tuesday (Dec 26).&nbsp;

Kim opened the key political meeting to set new policy goals for 2024 by praising what he called achievements and victories that strengthened national power and boosted the country’s prestige this year.&nbsp;

<h2>Luxury cars seen despite UN sanctions</h2>

While top North Korean officials were seen arriving in luxurious Mercedes S-class cars, the country’s leader himself has previously made public appearances in different Mercedes-Maybach S-class vehicles, including a limousine, according to South Korean news agency Yonhap.&nbsp;

The luxury cars were seen weeks after Japanese police foiled an attempt to smuggle a nearly $70,000 Lexus car into North Korea in what was described as another one of&nbsp;Kim’s&nbsp;illegal purchases amid heavy sanctions, reported Newsweek.&nbsp;

Notably, the raid took place on the same day that North Korea recalled its ambassador to Switzerland amid an investigation into ivory trafficking.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudden-appearance-of-ghost-ships-at-dormant-north-korean-port-rings-alarm-bells-for-ukraine-674257">Sudden appearance of ghost ships at dormant North Korean port sends alarm bells ringing for Ukraine</a>

Japanese police, on December 7 raided several properties in the country’s Chiba prefecture on suspicion that the owner of a used-car showroom had attempted to transfer a Lexus to North Korea, reported South China Morning Post (SCMP).&nbsp;

The firm, as per Asahi newspaper, had submitted paperwork stating that the vehicle was being sent to Singapore via Bangladesh.&nbsp;

<h2>Kim orders military to ‘accelerate’ war preparations</h2>

The North Korean leader has ordered the country’s military, the munitions industry and the nuclear weapons sector to accelerate war preparations to counter what he called unprecedented confrontational moves by the United States, reported the state news agency KCNA, on Thursday (Dec 28).&nbsp;

The order was given during the gathering held in the capital city, on Tuesday, and comes a week after Kim said North Korea would not hesitate to launch a nuclear attack if “provoked” with nukes.

“He (Kim) set forth the militant tasks for the People’s Army and the munitions industry, nuclear weapons and civil defence sectors to further accelerate the war preparations,” reported KCNA.

The North Korean leader also highlighted that the “military situation” on the Korean peninsula had become “extreme” due to “unprecedented” confrontations with Washington.&nbsp;

In 2023, Pyongyang conducted a record-breaking number of weapons tests, prompting Seoul, Tokyo and Washington to ramp up defence cooperation. This included the US also sending nuclear-powered submarines to the South Korean port city of Busan.&nbsp;

Ahn Chan-il, a defector-turned-researcher who runs the World Institute for North Korea Studies, told AFP, that Kim is likely to “deploy tactical nuclear weapons in areas near the inter-Korean border” and further advance its nuclear program in the upcoming year.&nbsp;

He added Pyongyang would make such moves to exert “great pressure” on South Korea and the United States while maintaining close ties with traditional allies Russia and China.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-holds-wide-ranging-talks-with-lavrov-says-india-russia-relations-reflect-geopolitical-realities-674165">Lavrov hails 'mutually beneficial' India-Russia ties, Jaishankar calls Moscow a 'time-tested partner'</a>

During the gathering in the North Korean capital, Kim defined 2023 “as a year of great turn and great change both in name and reality, in which (North Korea) left a great trace in the glorious course of development in the efforts to improve the national power and enhance the prestige of the country,” as quoted by KCNA.&nbsp;

The state media also reported how North Korea has achieved a rapid advancement in its defence capability following the launch of its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-claims-launch-of-first-spy-satellite-661540">first military spy satellite</a> in November.&nbsp;

Kim, during the meeting, laid out economic goals for the upcoming year calling for “stabilising the agricultural production on a high level.”

This comes as North Korea has suffered serious food shortages in recent decades, Reuters citing experts warning that border closures during the COVID-19 pandemic worsened food security in the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Top North Korean officials were seen attending leader Kim Jong Un’s year-end political meeting in swag, as several of them reportedly arrived in luxurious Mercedes S-class vehicles, despite a ban on luxury goods as a part of the United Nations imposed sanctions.

Top North Korean officials were seen attending leader Kim Jong Un’s year-end political meeting in swag, as several of them reportedly arrived in luxurious Mercedes S-class vehicles, despite a ban on luxury goods as a part of the United Nations imposed sanctions. The 8th central committee of the North Korean Workers’ Party gathered in the country’s capital Pyongyang and kicked off its 9th plenary meeting, on Tuesday (Dec 26). Kim opened the key political meeting to set new policy goals for 2024 by praising what he called achievements and victories that strengthened national power and boosted the country’s prestige this year. Luxury cars seen despite UN sanctions While top North Korean officials were seen arriving in luxurious Mercedes S-class cars, the country’s leader himself has previously made public appearances in different Mercedes-Maybach S-class vehicles, including a limousine, according to South Korean news agency Yonhap. The luxury cars were seen weeks after Japanese police foiled an attempt to smuggle a nearly $70,000 Lexus car into North Korea in what was described as another one of Kim’s illegal purchases amid heavy sanctions, reported Newsweek. Notably, the raid took place on the same day that North Korea recalled its ambassador to Switzerland amid an investigation into ivory trafficking. ALSO READ | Sudden appearance of ghost ships at dormant North Korean port sends alarm bells ringing for Ukraine Japanese police, on December 7 raided several properties in the country’s Chiba prefecture on suspicion that the owner of a used-car showroom had attempted to transfer a Lexus to North Korea, reported South China Morning Post (SCMP). The firm, as per Asahi newspaper, had submitted paperwork stating that the vehicle was being sent to Singapore via Bangladesh. Kim orders military to ‘accelerate’ war preparations The North Korean leader has ordered the country’s military, the munitions industry and the nuclear weapons sector to accelerate war preparations to counter what he called unprecedented confrontational moves by the United States, reported the state news agency KCNA, on Thursday (Dec 28). The order was given during the gathering held in the capital city, on Tuesday, and comes a week after Kim said North Korea would not hesitate to launch a nuclear attack if “provoked” with nukes. “He (Kim) set forth the militant tasks for the People’s Army and the munitions industry, nuclear weapons and civil defence sectors to further accelerate the war preparations,” reported KCNA. The North Korean leader also highlighted that the “military situation” on the Korean peninsula had become “extreme” due to “unprecedented” confrontations with Washington. In 2023, Pyongyang conducted a record-breaking number of weapons tests, prompting Seoul, Tokyo and Washington to ramp up defence cooperation. This included the US also sending nuclear-powered submarines to the South Korean port city of Busan. Ahn Chan-il, a defector-turned-researcher who runs the World Institute for North Korea Studies, told AFP, that Kim is likely to “deploy tactical nuclear weapons in areas near the inter-Korean border” and further advance its nuclear program in the upcoming year. He added Pyongyang would make such moves to exert “great pressure” on South Korea and the United States while maintaining close ties with traditional allies Russia and China. ALSO READ | Lavrov hails 'mutually beneficial' India-Russia ties, Jaishankar calls Moscow a 'time-tested partner' During the gathering in the North Korean capital, Kim defined 2023 “as a year of great turn and great change both in name and reality, in which (North Korea) left a great trace in the glorious course of development in the efforts to improve the national power and enhance the prestige of the country,” as quoted by KCNA. The state media also reported how North Korea has achieved a rapid advancement in its defence capability following the launch of its first military spy satellite in November. Kim, during the meeting, laid out economic goals for the upcoming year calling for “stabilising the agricultural production on a high level.” This comes as North Korea has suffered serious food shortages in recent decades, Reuters citing experts warning that border closures during the COVID-19 pandemic worsened food security in the country. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korean officials attend year-end political meeting in luxury cars despite ban

The United States issued a warning to North Korea that any kind of nuclear attack against the country or its allies "is unacceptable and will result in the end of the (Kim Jong) Un regime”. The warning was issued by the country in a joint US-South Korean statement on Saturday (Dec 16). 
 
"The US&nbsp;side reiterated that any nuclear attack by the DPRK against the ROK will be met with a swift, overwhelming, and decisive response," read the statement. 
 
The second US-Republic of Korea Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) started in Washington on Friday (Dec 15) to hold talks over nuclear deterrence, as part of a commitment between the two countries where they share more insight regarding the planning if there is a conflict with North Korea.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-boasts-of-satellite-capability-warns-to-launch-more-soon-667790">North Korea boasts of satellite capability, warns to launch more soon</a>

A range of ballistic missiles have been developed and tested by Pyongyang which can reach targets in Japan, South Korea and the US mainland. 
 
South Korea's deputy national security adviser Kim Tae-hyo on Friday (Dec 16) said that North Korea is likely to test-launch an intercontinental ballistic missile in December, which is being seen as a nuclear threat regardless of its range since it has the capability of carrying a nuclear warhead. 
 
The third NCG will be held in South Korea next summer.

<h2>North Korea delegation reaches China for talks</h2>

A North Korean diplomatic delegation has reached China to hold talks which will focus on strengthening co-operation, said North Korean state media on Saturday (Dec 17), as Pyongyang is taking little steps towards opening its borders and resuming trade with its neighbouring countries after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Watch:&nbsp;US, Japan &amp; S. Korea to share missile warning data, North Korea slams the decision

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North Korean Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs Pak Myong Ho and counterpart Sun Weidong talked about increasing strategic co-operation and improving bilateral relations on Friday (Dec 16), said KCNA in a statement, without giving any further details. 
 
The visit of North Korean officials to China to discuss political issues publicly has been rare since January 2020, when the former country closed its borders to stop the spread of COVID-19. 
 
The trip of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in September was his first overseas visit since the pandemic.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States issued a warning to North Korea that any kind of nuclear attack against the country or its allies "is unacceptable and will result in the end of the (Kim Jong) Un regime”.

The United States issued a warning to North Korea that any kind of nuclear attack against the country or its allies "is unacceptable and will result in the end of the (Kim Jong) Un regime”. The warning was issued by the country in a joint US-South Korean statement on Saturday (Dec 16). "The US side reiterated that any nuclear attack by the DPRK against the ROK will be met with a swift, overwhelming, and decisive response," read the statement. The second US-Republic of Korea Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) started in Washington on Friday (Dec 15) to hold talks over nuclear deterrence, as part of a commitment between the two countries where they share more insight regarding the planning if there is a conflict with North Korea. Also read: North Korea boasts of satellite capability, warns to launch more soon A range of ballistic missiles have been developed and tested by Pyongyang which can reach targets in Japan, South Korea and the US mainland. South Korea's deputy national security adviser Kim Tae-hyo on Friday (Dec 16) said that North Korea is likely to test-launch an intercontinental ballistic missile in December, which is being seen as a nuclear threat regardless of its range since it has the capability of carrying a nuclear warhead. The third NCG will be held in South Korea next summer. North Korea delegation reaches China for talks A North Korean diplomatic delegation has reached China to hold talks which will focus on strengthening co-operation, said North Korean state media on Saturday (Dec 17), as Pyongyang is taking little steps towards opening its borders and resuming trade with its neighbouring countries after the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch: US, Japan & S. Korea to share missile warning data, North Korea slams the decision North Korean Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs Pak Myong Ho and counterpart Sun Weidong talked about increasing strategic co-operation and improving bilateral relations on Friday (Dec 16), said KCNA in a statement, without giving any further details. The visit of North Korean officials to China to discuss political issues publicly has been rare since January 2020, when the former country closed its borders to stop the spread of COVID-19. The trip of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in September was his first overseas visit since the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

US warns nuclear attack by North Korea will result in end of Kim Jong Un’s regime

Kim Jong Un broke into tears while speaking at an event for mothers in North Korea. Apparently, North Korea's declining birthrate made him cry. The dictator has called for the women of North Korea to have more children.

Gravitas: Watch: Kim Jong Un breaks down into tears

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