North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Saturday (Oct 4) confirmed launch of a missile that allegedly uses artificial intelligence (AI) to adjust its trajectory. He said that he oversaw the launch with his daughter Kim Ju Ae, state media reported. The AI technology means the missile is "capable of changing its flight orbit at a low altitude", Kim's sister Kim Yo Jong said, adding this meant there was "no way to avoid" the attack. The photos by KCNA showed a missile soaring into the sky in a burst of orange flame. Another photo showed Kim smiling, flanked by his daughter Ju Ae and wife Ri Sol Ju, who is seen clapping her hands in celebration.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-missiles-toward-sea-but-us-says-no-immediate-threat-1789172294113">North Korea fires missiles after US, South Korea and Japan military drills but America says 'does not pose immediate threat'</a>&nbsp;"Through today's launching drill, the strategic missile soldiers have fully demonstrated their professional qualifications and counterattack posture," Kim said after overseeing the launch, according to an English-language dispatch by the official Korean Central News Agency. "We must continue our responsible efforts nonstop to constantly and repeatedly make the enemy recognize the reliability and fatality of our strategic offensive means," he added. The launch was conducted to help train soldiers operating the "hypersonic strategic weapon system", according to KCNA.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-ballistic-missile-into-sea-japan-and-south-korea-confirm-launch-1789887007367">North Korea fires ballistic missiles into sea, Japan and South Korea confirm launch</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, &nbsp;South Korea's military said that the missile was launched from an area around the eastern coastal city of Wonsan and flew more than 700 kilometres (435 miles). It came days after Seoul's military demanded an apology from Pyongyang for a blast that wounded three South Korean soldiers in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), which it blamed on the North. Pyongyang has denied responsibility for last month's explosion and called South Korea "despicable" on Friday, undercutting overtures by Seoul's civilian leadership seeking a return to dialogue.&nbsp;Last month, US Pacific Command said that it was aware of the launches by the North, but based on its current assessment, it declared that they ‘did not pose an immediate threat’ to US personnel, territory or allies. Earlier, US President Donald Trump hinted at meeting Kim Jong Un.&nbsp;

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a missile launch with his daughter Ju Ae, as state media claimed AI technology allows the weapon to alter its flight path at low altitude. The missile flew over 700 km from Wonsan during a drill for a hypersonic strategic weapon system.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Saturday (Oct 4) confirmed launch of a missile that allegedly uses artificial intelligence (AI) to adjust its trajectory. He said that he oversaw the launch with his daughter Kim Ju Ae, state media reported. The AI technology means the missile is "capable of changing its flight orbit at a low altitude", Kim's sister Kim Yo Jong said, adding this meant there was "no way to avoid" the attack. The photos by KCNA showed a missile soaring into the sky in a burst of orange flame. Another photo showed Kim smiling, flanked by his daughter Ju Ae and wife Ri Sol Ju, who is seen clapping her hands in celebration. Also Read: North Korea fires missiles after US, South Korea and Japan military drills but America says 'does not pose immediate threat' "Through today's launching drill, the strategic missile soldiers have fully demonstrated their professional qualifications and counterattack posture," Kim said after overseeing the launch, according to an English-language dispatch by the official Korean Central News Agency. "We must continue our responsible efforts nonstop to constantly and repeatedly make the enemy recognize the reliability and fatality of our strategic offensive means," he added. The launch was conducted to help train soldiers operating the "hypersonic strategic weapon system", according to KCNA. Also Read: North Korea fires ballistic missiles into sea, Japan and South Korea confirm launch Meanwhile, South Korea's military said that the missile was launched from an area around the eastern coastal city of Wonsan and flew more than 700 kilometres (435 miles). It came days after Seoul's military demanded an apology from Pyongyang for a blast that wounded three South Korean soldiers in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), which it blamed on the North. Pyongyang has denied responsibility for last month's explosion and called South Korea "despicable" on Friday, undercutting overtures by Seoul's civilian leadership seeking a return to dialogue. Last month, US Pacific Command said that it was aware of the launches by the North, but based on its current assessment, it declared that they ‘did not pose an immediate threat’ to US personnel, territory or allies. Earlier, US President Donald Trump hinted at meeting Kim Jong Un.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a missile launch with his daughter Ju Ae, as state media claimed AI technology allows the weapon to alter its flight path at low altitude. The missile flew over 700 km from Wonsan during a drill for a hypersonic strategic weapon system.

'No way to avoid attack': Kim Jong Un confirms North Korea's AI-powered missile launch

Can nuclear testing result in an uncharacteristic rise in seismic activity and that too for the long term? While this theory has remained in the realm of speculation, a new study has thrown up a startling revelation in this regard. The study published in, the science journal by researchers from China and South Korea, analysed seismic recordings collected between 2008 and 2025.&nbsp;They used wave forms of known earthquakes as templates to find much fainter events buried in background noise.The study found that North Korea's six underground nuclear tests conducted from 2006 to 2017, at mount mantap were followed by close to 1,400 local earthquakes until 2025.&nbsp;It is worth noting that the country's final nuclear nuclear test, with an explosive yield of 160 kilo tonnes, unleashed an earthquake of 6.3 magnitude, and is believed to have resulted in an on-site collapse of a tunnel.&nbsp;While nuclear tests have long been known to cause small earthquakes, the effects are typically shortlived. Additionally, the area had been quiet tectonically, with earthquakes virtually unheard of.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/gravitas/australia-mulls-ban-on-smart-glasses-in-govt-offices-amid-privacy-concerns-gravitas-1789753691089">Australia mulls ban on smart glasses in govt offices amid privacy concerns | Gravitas</a>&nbsp;Then what explains the north Korean phenomenon?&nbsp;According to the study, repeated explosions progressively damaged the earth's crust, and increased seismicity as at least two pre-existing intraplate faults became active.&nbsp;According to some experts, nuclear tests may have fractured a large volume of rock creating new cracks. According to the study's authors, the discovery that underground nuclear tests can trigger intensified seismic activity could complicate long-term monitoring of nuclear test sites.&nbsp;This manifested earlier this year, after at least 17 earthquakes struck near the highly classified. Area 51 in nevada within a period of 24 hours in late April.&nbsp;As this was close to the nevada test site, where u.S. Conducted nuclear tests from 1951 until 1992. conspiracy theories about covert nuclear testing gained traction.

It is worth noting that the country's final nuclear nuclear test, with an explosive yield of 160 kilo tonnes, unleashed an earthquake of 6.3 magnitude, and is believed to have resulted in an on-site collapse of a tunnel.

Can nuclear testing result in an uncharacteristic rise in seismic activity and that too for the long term? While this theory has remained in the realm of speculation, a new study has thrown up a startling revelation in this regard. The study published in, the science journal by researchers from China and South Korea, analysed seismic recordings collected between 2008 and 2025. They used wave forms of known earthquakes as templates to find much fainter events buried in background noise. The study found that North Korea's six underground nuclear tests conducted from 2006 to 2017, at mount mantap were followed by close to 1,400 local earthquakes until 2025. It is worth noting that the country's final nuclear nuclear test, with an explosive yield of 160 kilo tonnes, unleashed an earthquake of 6.3 magnitude, and is believed to have resulted in an on-site collapse of a tunnel. While nuclear tests have long been known to cause small earthquakes, the effects are typically shortlived. Additionally, the area had been quiet tectonically, with earthquakes virtually unheard of. Also read: Australia mulls ban on smart glasses in govt offices amid privacy concerns | Gravitas Then what explains the north Korean phenomenon? According to the study, repeated explosions progressively damaged the earth's crust, and increased seismicity as at least two pre-existing intraplate faults became active. According to some experts, nuclear tests may have fractured a large volume of rock creating new cracks. According to the study's authors, the discovery that underground nuclear tests can trigger intensified seismic activity could complicate long-term monitoring of nuclear test sites. This manifested earlier this year, after at least 17 earthquakes struck near the highly classified. Area 51 in nevada within a period of 24 hours in late April. As this was close to the nevada test site, where u.S. Conducted nuclear tests from 1951 until 1992. conspiracy theories about covert nuclear testing gained traction.

It is worth noting that the country's final nuclear nuclear test, with an explosive yield of 160 kilo tonnes, unleashed an earthquake of 6.3 magnitude, and is believed to have resulted in an on-site collapse of a tunnel.

North Korea's nuclear tests triggered 1,399 earthquakes: Earth is still shaking | Gravitas

Russia and North Korea are further strengthening their strategic partnership, with Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reaffirming deepening ties.

The growing relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang has drawn international attention amid heightened geopolitical tensions and Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. Both sides have increasingly emphasized closer cooperation and strategic coordination.

Watch this report for the latest developments in Russia-North Korea relations and what the deepening partnership could mean for regional and global geopolitics.

Russia & North Korea Boost Ties | Putin & Kim Reaffirm Deepening Strategic Partnership

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited a martyrs’ cemetery in Pyongyang to mark the 81st anniversary of Korea’s liberation from Japanese colonial rule.

Kim Jong Un was accompanied by his wife and daughter as he paid tribute to anti-Japanese revolutionary fighters. The ceremony marked an important national occasion in North Korea, with the leadership honoring those remembered for their role in the country’s liberation struggle.

Watch the visuals from Pyongyang as North Korea commemorates Liberation Day.

Kim Jong Un Visits Pyongyang Cemetery On Korea Liberation Anniversary

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has announced plans to build a nuclear-armed navy and develop large 10,000-tonne class warships, according to state media.

The announcement was made during the commissioning of a new destroyer, as Pyongyang accelerates its military expansion despite long-standing international sanctions over its nuclear weapons programme.

Officials say the move is part of a broader strategy to enhance naval capability and operational readiness, further escalating concerns in the region over military balance and security tensions.

Kim Unveils Nuclear Navy Plan: North Korea To Build 10,000-Tonne Warships

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un received the soldiers who returned home from Russia, where they were fighting against Ukraine. In the ongoing cross-border fighting, Pyongyang lost over 600 troops. They sent over 10,000 soldiers along with artillery shells, missiles and long-range rocket systems to the Kursk region while the two countries were embroiled in fighting in August 2024. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-steps-up-attacks-on-russia-s-energy-infra-wion-breaking-1755854958404/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-steps-up-attacks-on-russia-s-energy-infra-wion-breaking-1755854958404/embed</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The North Korean leader arranged for an elaborate ceremony in which the soldiers were lauded for their effort; he also called them ‘heroes’.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;He was seen hugging them; he kneeled before the fallen soldiers and placed medals in front of their photographs. The troops were hailed for their valour.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-attempt-to-draw-hungary-into-war-ukraine-strikes-druzhba-pipeline-in-russia-hungarian-oil-supply-stopped-1755850270290">'Attempt to draw Hungary into war': Ukraine strikes Druzhba pipeline in Russia; Hungarian oil supply stopped</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;“In the speech, he wished the immortal glory to the heroic officers and men of the overseas operation unit who put the most brilliant acme on the long history of victory of our people and the absolute might of the revolutionary armed forces.” Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un received the soldiers who returned home from Russia, where they were fighting against Ukraine. 

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un received the soldiers who returned home from Russia, where they were fighting against Ukraine. In the ongoing cross-border fighting, Pyongyang lost over 600 troops. They sent over 10,000 soldiers along with artillery shells, missiles and long-range rocket systems to the Kursk region while the two countries were embroiled in fighting in August 2024. https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-steps-up-attacks-on-russia-s-energy-infra-wion-breaking-1755854958404/embed The North Korean leader arranged for an elaborate ceremony in which the soldiers were lauded for their effort; he also called them ‘heroes’.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un received the soldiers who returned home from Russia, where they were fighting against Ukraine.&nbsp;

North Korea's Kim Jong-Un celebrates soldiers who fought for Russia, calls them 'heroes'

North Korea’s Benidorm, the luxury resort which opened up on July 1, welcomed its first group of foreign visitors. About a dozen Russian tourists arrived in early July; additional Russian tourists are scheduled to arrive in August. With an estimated capacity of 20,000 guests, the Wonsan-Kalma Beach Resort features artificial white sand beaches, hotels, waterparks, surf pools, rides and a tram/electric car system. The initial reports from the Russian media indicated that it was primarily for Russians and North Koreans. This is an initiative by the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to boost tourism in the politically isolated country.The visiting guests have left a surreal response about &nbsp;“North Korea’s Waikiki”, the project is a prestigious tourism initiative driven by Kim Jong Un. Some guests reported being 'chaperoned constantly', with staff following them around always, even when they were at the beaches. They raised issues of surveillance and lack of privacy. Some of the guests were paranoid about their phones being bugged, and communication was reportedly disrupted. Each mail supposedly costs £1.65, sent only through hotel accounts.The tourists were flown to Pyongyang but then transferred to Wonsan by private train. Thus providing a rare view of the rural North Korea. The tourists praised the cleanliness and infrastructure of the resort. There were attractive facilities like electric cars and trams ferrying guests around the spacious, but often nearly empty, beach areas.However, analysts are critical about long-term success, particularly due to limited visibility, isolated travel conditions and political control over the guests. The site reportedly hosted Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in mid-July. This hints at a potential diplomatic usage of the site to repair some of the damage of North Korea on the global stage.&nbsp;

The bizarre reality of the Wonsan-Kalma beach resort, a luxury seaside paradise where there are spotless beaches, modern amenities and persistent surveillance.

North Korea’s Benidorm, the luxury resort which opened up on July 1, welcomed its first group of foreign visitors. About a dozen Russian tourists arrived in early July; additional Russian tourists are scheduled to arrive in August. With an estimated capacity of 20,000 guests, the Wonsan-Kalma Beach Resort features artificial white sand beaches, hotels, waterparks, surf pools, rides and a tram/electric car system. The initial reports from the Russian media indicated that it was primarily for Russians and North Koreans. This is an initiative by the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to boost tourism in the politically isolated country. The visiting guests have left a surreal response about “North Korea’s Waikiki”, the project is a prestigious tourism initiative driven by Kim Jong Un. Some guests reported being 'chaperoned constantly', with staff following them around always, even when they were at the beaches. They raised issues of surveillance and lack of privacy. Some of the guests were paranoid about their phones being bugged, and communication was reportedly disrupted. Each mail supposedly costs £1.65, sent only through hotel accounts. The tourists were flown to Pyongyang but then transferred to Wonsan by private train. Thus providing a rare view of the rural North Korea. The tourists praised the cleanliness and infrastructure of the resort. There were attractive facilities like electric cars and trams ferrying guests around the spacious, but often nearly empty, beach areas. However, analysts are critical about long-term success, particularly due to limited visibility, isolated travel conditions and political control over the guests. The site reportedly hosted Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in mid-July. This hints at a potential diplomatic usage of the site to repair some of the damage of North Korea on the global stage.

The bizarre reality of the Wonsan-Kalma beach resort, a luxury seaside paradise where there are spotless beaches, modern amenities and persistent surveillance.

Inside North Korea's secret beach paradise where tourists are watched 24/7

The practice of parading replica equipment is not unique to North Korea, but its apparent frequency and ambition have prompted questions about the true strength of the country's defence forces.

The practice of parading replica equipment is not unique to North Korea, but its apparent frequency and ambition have prompted questions about the true strength of the country's defence forces.

Does North Korea’s Air Force use fake fighter jets during parades?

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who is on a three-day visit to North Korea met his counterpart at costal city Wonsan, where a massive beach resort recently opened. During his meeting with Choe Son-hui, Lavrov thanked North Korean leadership for "a very important contribution to the just cause of liberating Russian territories", reported the state media.&nbsp;Lavrov highlighted the support of North Korean troops in Russia’s Kursk region, where Kremlin forces have reclaimed most of the territories from Ukraine. He hailed it as an “invincible brotherhood” between the nations.&nbsp;He also said that Moscow will help in increasing tourist flows to North Korea from Russia.Lavrov also mention that Belarus on the basis of Russian support has invited North Korea to take part in the third conference on Eurasian security architecture likely to be held in Minsk in October, reported the Business Standard.&nbsp;The meeting between Lavrov and his North Korean counterpart Choe Son-hui comes after Pyongyang agreed to send an additional 6,000 military workers to the Kursk region in a meeting between Kim and Sergei Shoigu, Putin’s top security aide last month.&nbsp;The two countries have strengthened ties after signing a military treaty last year. The move is being seen by analysts as a way by both the countries fight mounting international sanctions. Russia and North Korea are also looking at relaunching maritime transport with each other. &nbsp;

Lavrov highlighted the support of North Korean troops in Russia’s Kursk region, where Kremlin forces have reclaimed most of the territories from Ukraine

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who is on a three-day visit to North Korea met his counterpart at costal city Wonsan, where a massive beach resort recently opened. During his meeting with Choe Son-hui, Lavrov thanked North Korean leadership for "a very important contribution to the just cause of liberating Russian territories", reported the state media. Lavrov highlighted the support of North Korean troops in Russia’s Kursk region, where Kremlin forces have reclaimed most of the territories from Ukraine. He hailed it as an “invincible brotherhood” between the nations. He also said that Moscow will help in increasing tourist flows to North Korea from Russia. Lavrov also mention that Belarus on the basis of Russian support has invited North Korea to take part in the third conference on Eurasian security architecture likely to be held in Minsk in October, reported the Business Standard. The meeting between Lavrov and his North Korean counterpart Choe Son-hui comes after Pyongyang agreed to send an additional 6,000 military workers to the Kursk region in a meeting between Kim and Sergei Shoigu, Putin’s top security aide last month. The two countries have strengthened ties after signing a military treaty last year. The move is being seen by analysts as a way by both the countries fight mounting international sanctions. Russia and North Korea are also looking at relaunching maritime transport with each other.

Lavrov highlighted the support of North Korean troops in Russia’s Kursk region, where Kremlin forces have reclaimed most of the territories from Ukraine.

Lavrov hails North Korea for 'liberating Russian territories' from Ukraine

Security experts have warned that following US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities last month could step up North Korea to extend the development and procurement of nuclear weapons for its survival. They also noted that the attacks could weaken efforts toward denuclearisation on the Korean peninsula, a goal which China also supports. In addition, experts said the mounting pressure of the US on North Korea could destabilise the region and fuel nuclear proliferation.“North Korean leaders may confirm their previous assessment: that [US President Donald] Trump acts for reasons that are not ‘security’ or geopolitical-related. He is therefore an emotional, unpredictable force, and not one that is trustworthy at all," Stephen Costello, a non-resident fellow at the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, said, the South China Morning Post reported.Niklas Swanstrom, executive director of the Stockholm-based Institute for Security and Development Policy, suggested that US strikes on Iran might prompt North Korea to make its nuclear weapons more mobile and harder to target, strengthen its second-strike capabilities, and invest significantly in underground bunkers and backup production infrastructure.“Any remaining possibility of North Korean denuclearisation will be effectively terminated, as the regime will view nuclear weapons as the ultimate guarantee of survival,” Swanstrom said.During the first term, US President Donald Trump held a series of historic conversations with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un over the nuclear proliferation. In 2018, the first summit in Singapore concluded with a joint statement with vague commitments to denuclearisation. Later in Hanoi, Vietnam, the talks ended abruptly without a deal.<h3>Why is China worried?</h3>Meanwhile, experts warned that increased US pressure was expected to create regional instability that would be unfavourable for China, where it can face a complex strategic environment. An expert on North Korea at the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies said that the impact on China is quite “evident” adding that it deepened concerns in Beijing about the possibility of future strikes targeting North Korea, according to a report in the South China Morning Post.“China will also warily watch out for any particular US actions that could increase the escalation ladder, such as US-led joint military exercises or other provocative military posture,” Niu said.China and North Korea share a border covering more than 1,300 km (808 miles), mostly along the Yalu and Tumen rivers and a mountain range. This close geographical connection means Beijing is highly sensitive to any instability or security threats near its border.“China’s primary interest is maintaining stability on the Korean peninsula to prevent refugee flows, economic disruption, and potential conflict near its borders,” Niklas Swanstrom said.China backs the denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula and supports resolving tensions through dialogue, while maintaining regional stability as a top priority. It also maintains that North Korea’s security, economic, and political concerns must be addressed in any nuclear discussions.Beijing has promoted a "dual suspension" strategy, calling for South Korea and the US to stop joint military exercises in exchange for North Korea pausing its nuclear and missile activities.However, nuclear non-proliferation efforts could be jeopardised, as China's stance on denuclearisation is also driven by concerns that Pyongyang’s nuclear advancements might push South Korea or Japan to consider building their own nuclear weapons, according to analyst Niu. &nbsp;

During the first term, US President Donald Trump held a series of historic conversations with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un over the nuclear proliferation. In 2018, the first summit in Singapore concluded with a joint statement with vague commitments to denuclearisation.

Security experts have warned that following US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities last month could step up North Korea to extend the development and procurement of nuclear weapons for its survival. They also noted that the attacks could weaken efforts toward denuclearisation on the Korean peninsula, a goal which China also supports. In addition, experts said the mounting pressure of the US on North Korea could destabilise the region and fuel nuclear proliferation. “North Korean leaders may confirm their previous assessment: that [US President Donald] Trump acts for reasons that are not ‘security’ or geopolitical-related. He is therefore an emotional, unpredictable force, and not one that is trustworthy at all," Stephen Costello, a non-resident fellow at the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, said, the South China Morning Post reported. Niklas Swanstrom, executive director of the Stockholm-based Institute for Security and Development Policy, suggested that US strikes on Iran might prompt North Korea to make its nuclear weapons more mobile and harder to target, strengthen its second-strike capabilities, and invest significantly in underground bunkers and backup production infrastructure. “Any remaining possibility of North Korean denuclearisation will be effectively terminated, as the regime will view nuclear weapons as the ultimate guarantee of survival,” Swanstrom said. During the first term, US President Donald Trump held a series of historic conversations with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un over the nuclear proliferation. In 2018, the first summit in Singapore concluded with a joint statement with vague commitments to denuclearisation. Later in Hanoi, Vietnam, the talks ended abruptly without a deal. Why is China worried? Meanwhile, experts warned that increased US pressure was expected to create regional instability that would be unfavourable for China, where it can face a complex strategic environment. An expert on North Korea at the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies said that the impact on China is quite “evident” adding that it deepened concerns in Beijing about the possibility of future strikes targeting North Korea, according to a report in the South China Morning Post. “China will also warily watch out for any particular US actions that could increase the escalation ladder, such as US-led joint military exercises or other provocative military posture,” Niu said. China and North Korea share a border covering more than 1,300 km (808 miles), mostly along the Yalu and Tumen rivers and a mountain range. This close geographical connection means Beijing is highly sensitive to any instability or security threats near its border. “China’s primary interest is maintaining stability on the Korean peninsula to prevent refugee flows, economic disruption, and potential conflict near its borders,” Niklas Swanstrom said. China backs the denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula and supports resolving tensions through dialogue, while maintaining regional stability as a top priority. It also maintains that North Korea’s security, economic, and political concerns must be addressed in any nuclear discussions. Beijing has promoted a "dual suspension" strategy, calling for South Korea and the US to stop joint military exercises in exchange for North Korea pausing its nuclear and missile activities. However, nuclear non-proliferation efforts could be jeopardised, as China's stance on denuclearisation is also driven by concerns that Pyongyang’s nuclear advancements might push South Korea or Japan to consider building their own nuclear weapons, according to analyst Niu.

During the first term, US President Donald Trump held a series of historic conversations with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un over the nuclear proliferation. In 2018, the first summit in Singapore concluded with a joint statement with vague commitments to denuclearisation.

Did US strikes on Iran push North Korea to expand nuclear arsenal? Here's what reports suggest

Leader of North Korea, Kim Jong Un, has directed the military to "accelerate" war preparations, including the nuclear program, in response to what he described as unprecedented aggressive actions by the United States.

North Korea’s Kim Jong Un calls on military to ‘accelerate’ war preparations

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

The tensions between North Korea and South Korea escalated big time over the weekend as it was reported Monday (Nov 27) that Pyongyang has rushed its troops near the border with the South.

North Korea rushes troops, heavy weapons near border

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un has unveiled what he claimed is the country's first tactical nuclear attack submarine. Western analyst claim Pyongyang has remodeled an old submarine. South Korea is questioning the capability of the sub.

Gravitas: North Korea's Kim Jong Un unveils tactical nuclear attack submarine

North Korea has launched a rocket shortly after it announced it was planning to send its first satellite into space. However, Tokyo claims it is a ballistic missile. The US condemned North Korea's launch saying that it raises tensions. However, North Korean officials on Wednesday said the launch ended in failure after the rocket's second stage malfunctioned. Pyongyang reported that the new "chollima-1" satellite launch rocket failed due to in-stability in the engine and fuel system. It said there was abnormal start of the two stage engine after stage one separation.

North Korea rocket launch ends in failure: State media reports

North Korea claims conducting another test of a nuclear-capable underwater attack drone. Pyongyang says the underwater strategic weapon system cruised 1,000 km (621 miles)for 71 hours and 6 minutes and successfully hit a simulated target.

North Korea claims testing nuclear-capable underwater drone

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un called for the country to stand ready to conduct nuclear attacks at any time to deter war, accusing the U.S. and South Korea of expanding joint military drills involving American nuclear assets.

Kim Jong Un calls for nuclear attack readiness against U.S, South Korea

South Korea and the United States are discussing planning and implementation of U.S. nuclear operations to counter North Korea, Seoul's presidential office said on Tuesday.

South Korea and U.S. discuss nuclear planning operations

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un unveiled new goals for the country's military for 2023 at an ongoing meeting of the ruling Workers' Party, hinting at another year of intensive weapons tests and tension.

North Korea's Kim unveils new military goals at key party meeting

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un kicked off a key meeting of the ruling Workers' Party, state media reported on Tuesday (December 27), at a venue he has often used to announce major policy decisions marking the New Year.

North Korea's Kim kicks off key party meeting ahead of New Year

North Korea celebrated the 110th anniversary of the birth of late founder Kim Il Sung on Friday with fireworks, a procession, and an evening gala in Pyongyang's main square, with thousands of people in colourful traditional dress singing and dancing.

North Korea celebrates founder's birthday with dance, music but no military parade

Amid global condemnation from world powers, North Korea tests Hypersonic missile in a bid to upgrade its missile arsenal.

North Korea tests Hypersonic missile in a bid to upgrade its missile arsenal

In the first missile test this year, North Korea has fired an unidentified projectile into the sea east of the peninsula. Now it is suspected to be a ballistic missile.

North Korea starts the year 2022 with a missile launch into the sea

#NorthKorea The Hermit Kingdom is facing an acute food crisis - its citizens are starving. The totalitarian state functions on bizarre rules laid down by #KimJongUn. Take one false step, and... Watch 'North Korea: The Real #SquidGame?' on #WIONWideangle

Wion Wideangle: North Korea: the real Squid Game?

North Korea once again fired a ballistic missile into the sea. This comes hours after the U.S. reaffirmed its offer to resume diplomacy on North Korea's nuclear weapons program

North Korea: Pyongyang continues it's missile testing spree

The leader of nuclear-armed North Korea has blamed the united state for tensions in the Korean peninsula. He has defended Pyongyang's weapon program, claiming it is necessary in the face of hostile united States.

Kim Jong Un: US reason for tension in Korean peninsula

In 2018-2019, Kim held a series of high-stakes summit meetings with Biden's predecessor, Donald Trump, to discuss the future of his advancing nuclear arsenal.

N Korea's Kim vows to be ready for confrontation with US

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;on Wednesday dubbed the global atomic watchdog "a marionette dancing to the tune of the West" rejecting its information about the country's nuclear programme as “grossly distorted” and based on “guesswork and fabrication.”

North Korean Ambassador Kim Song delivered the rebuke at a UN General Assembly meeting where the International Atomic Energy Agency''s executive director, Rafael Grossi, called Pyongyang''s nuclear activities “deeply regrettable" and “a clear violation” of Security Council resolutions.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/satellite-images-suggest-north-korea-may-be-preparing-to-launch-submarine-missile-us-think-tank-325354">Satellite images suggest North Korea may be preparing to launch submarine missile</a>

The Vienna-based IAEA has not had access to&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;since the isolated Asian state expelled IAEA inspectors in 2009. Since then Pyongyang has pressed ahead with its nuclear weapons program, conducting its last nuclear test in September 2017.

The U.N. specialised agency has been monitoring&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;from afar, including satellite imagery.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-nuclear-missile-programs-serious-threat-to-security-pentagon-chief-335325">North Korea's nuclear, missile programs 'serious threat' to security: Pentagon chief</a>

"The DPRK's nuclear activities remain a cause for serious concern. The continuation of the country's nuclear program is a clear violation of relevant Security Council resolutions and is deeply regrettable," IAEA Director-General Rafael Mariano Grossi told the 193-member U.N. General Assembly on Wednesday.

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;is formally known as the Democratic People's Republic of&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;(DPRK).

North&nbsp;Korea's U.N. Ambassador Kim Song rejected an annual IAEA report submitted to the General Assembly

"The DPRK delegation categorically rejects the report of the IAEA containing grossly distorted contents with regard to the DPRK," said Kim.

"We left the IAEA long ago and have not forgotten its despicable acts of having sided with the hostile forces in their maneuvers to put pressure on us," Kim said. "The DPRK will never have any business to deal with the IAEA so long as it runs short of impartiality and objectivity ... and remains a marionette dancing to the tune of the hostile forces against the DPRK."

It is known that North Korea has facilities to produce both plutonium and highly enriched uranium, two key ingredients to manufacture bombs, at its main Yongbyon nuclear complex north of the capital, Pyongyang.

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has been subjected to U.N. Security Council sanctions since 2006 over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. The 15-member council has steadily strengthened sanctions in a bid to cut off funding for those programs.

North&nbsp;Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US&nbsp;President Donald Trump have met three times since 2018, but failed to make progress on the US&nbsp;calls for Pyongyang to give up its nuclear weapons and&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea's demands for an end to sanctions.

North Korea on Wednesday dubbed the global atomic watchdog "a marionette dancing to the tune of the West" rejecting its information about the country's nuclear programme as “grossly distorted” and based on “guesswork and fabrication.

North Korea on Wednesday dubbed the global atomic watchdog "a marionette dancing to the tune of the West" rejecting its information about the country's nuclear programme as “grossly distorted” and based on “guesswork and fabrication.” North Korean Ambassador Kim Song delivered the rebuke at a UN General Assembly meeting where the International Atomic Energy Agency''s executive director, Rafael Grossi, called Pyongyang''s nuclear activities “deeply regrettable" and “a clear violation” of Security Council resolutions. Also read| Satellite images suggest North Korea may be preparing to launch submarine missile The Vienna-based IAEA has not had access to North Korea since the isolated Asian state expelled IAEA inspectors in 2009. Since then Pyongyang has pressed ahead with its nuclear weapons program, conducting its last nuclear test in September 2017. The U.N. specialised agency has been monitoring North Korea from afar, including satellite imagery. Also read| North Korea's nuclear, missile programs 'serious threat' to security: Pentagon chief "The DPRK's nuclear activities remain a cause for serious concern. The continuation of the country's nuclear program is a clear violation of relevant Security Council resolutions and is deeply regrettable," IAEA Director-General Rafael Mariano Grossi told the 193-member U.N. General Assembly on Wednesday. North Korea is formally known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). North Korea's U.N. Ambassador Kim Song rejected an annual IAEA report submitted to the General Assembly "The DPRK delegation categorically rejects the report of the IAEA containing grossly distorted contents with regard to the DPRK," said Kim. "We left the IAEA long ago and have not forgotten its despicable acts of having sided with the hostile forces in their maneuvers to put pressure on us," Kim said. "The DPRK will never have any business to deal with the IAEA so long as it runs short of impartiality and objectivity ... and remains a marionette dancing to the tune of the hostile forces against the DPRK." It is known that North Korea has facilities to produce both plutonium and highly enriched uranium, two key ingredients to manufacture bombs, at its main Yongbyon nuclear complex north of the capital, Pyongyang. North Korea has been subjected to U.N. Security Council sanctions since 2006 over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. The 15-member council has steadily strengthened sanctions in a bid to cut off funding for those programs. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump have met three times since 2018, but failed to make progress on the US calls for Pyongyang to give up its nuclear weapons and North Korea's demands for an end to sanctions.

North Korea dubs UN nuclear watchdog a 'dancing marionette of the West'

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;is building two new submarines, including one capable of firing ballistic missiles, a South&nbsp;Korean lawmaker said on Tuesday, following a closed-door briefing by the South's National Intelligence Service.

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has a large submarine fleet but only one known experimental submarine capable of carrying a ballistic missile.

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"One of the submarines&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;is building can carry a submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM)," Ha Tae-keung, an opposition party lawmaker on parliament’s intelligence committee, told Reuters. "One is a modified Romeo Class and the other is a new medium-large size one."

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has been subject to UN&nbsp;Security Council sanctions since 2006 over its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/disappointing-us-slams-north-korea-over-icbm-display-in-military-parade-334519">'Disappointing': US slams North Korea over ICBM display in military parade</a>

North&nbsp;Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US&nbsp;President Donald Trump have met three times since 2018, but failed to make progress on US&nbsp;calls for Pyongyang to give up its nuclear weapons and&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea's demands for an end to sanctions.

In July 2019 state media showed Kim inspecting a large, newly built submarine. While&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;did not describe the submarine’s weapons systems, analysts said the apparent size of the vessel indicated it was designed to carry missiles.

Later that year&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;said it had successfully test-fired a new SLBM from the sea, and last month it showcased a new SLBM design during a military parade in Pyongyang.

Kim's vow to unveil new strategic weapons this year also led to speculation that&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;could soon deploy an operational ballistic missile submarine.

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;showcased a total of 76 missiles in nine different types at a military parade on October&nbsp;10, including the country’s long-range weapons for the first time in two years, Yonhap news agency reported, citing Ha.

After months of speculation over Kim's health, South&nbsp;Korea's spies said there were no signs that the young leader was suffering from health problems, Yonhap reported.

The lawmaker also said there was circumstantial evidence indicating that Kim had ordered an investigation into the&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korean troops who shot dead a South&nbsp;Korean fisheries official who went missing in late September, Yonhap reported.

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;last week said the shooting of the South&nbsp;Korean man in its waters last month was a self-defensive measure amid concerns about the coronavirus.

North Korea is building two new submarines, including one capable of firing ballistic missiles, a South Korean lawmaker said on Tuesday, following a closed-door briefing by the South's National Intelligence Service.

North Korea is building two new submarines, including one capable of firing ballistic missiles, a South Korean lawmaker said on Tuesday, following a closed-door briefing by the South's National Intelligence Service. North Korea has a large submarine fleet but only one known experimental submarine capable of carrying a ballistic missile. "One of the submarines North Korea is building can carry a submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM)," Ha Tae-keung, an opposition party lawmaker on parliament’s intelligence committee, told Reuters. "One is a modified Romeo Class and the other is a new medium-large size one." North Korea has been subject to UN Security Council sanctions since 2006 over its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes. Also read| 'Disappointing': US slams North Korea over ICBM display in military parade North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump have met three times since 2018, but failed to make progress on US calls for Pyongyang to give up its nuclear weapons and North Korea's demands for an end to sanctions. In July 2019 state media showed Kim inspecting a large, newly built submarine. While North Korea did not describe the submarine’s weapons systems, analysts said the apparent size of the vessel indicated it was designed to carry missiles. Later that year North Korea said it had successfully test-fired a new SLBM from the sea, and last month it showcased a new SLBM design during a military parade in Pyongyang. Kim's vow to unveil new strategic weapons this year also led to speculation that North Korea could soon deploy an operational ballistic missile submarine. North Korea showcased a total of 76 missiles in nine different types at a military parade on October 10, including the country’s long-range weapons for the first time in two years, Yonhap news agency reported, citing Ha. After months of speculation over Kim's health, South Korea's spies said there were no signs that the young leader was suffering from health problems, Yonhap reported. The lawmaker also said there was circumstantial evidence indicating that Kim had ordered an investigation into the North Korean troops who shot dead a South Korean fisheries official who went missing in late September, Yonhap reported. North Korea last week said the shooting of the South Korean man in its waters last month was a self-defensive measure amid concerns about the coronavirus.

North Korea building two submarines capable of firing ballistic missiles

North Korea has warned its citizens to stay indoors over fears that "yellow dust" which blows in from China could infect the population with COVID-19.

Yellow dust&nbsp;contains harmful ingredients&nbsp;and directly acts on the human respiratory system.&nbsp;

Yellow dust refers to sand from Mongolian and Chinese deserts that blow into North and South Korea at certain times of the year. It is intermingled with toxic dust that for years has raised health concerns in both countries.

However, Okryu-gwan, a restaurant in the capital Pyongyang, well known for serving&nbsp;North Korea's signature cuisine "Pyongyang naengmyeon",&nbsp;is operating at full capacity and is violating social distancing norms imposed due to the surge in coronavirus cases.

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The famous restaurant is cramped up with&nbsp;customers without any booths to separate one from another. It is still working at a full capacity at a time when most eateries in the world are shutting down amid concerns of a second wave.

Jong Sol Hung, one of the&nbsp;restaurant's&nbsp;managers, said&nbsp;"We will continue to work more closely on our emergency quarantine projects, while serving the people more actively, and thereby do our best to inspire the strong will of our people by the time the 80-day campaign is over."

Despite claiming the country has no cases of coronavirus, there are deep fears about COVID-19 in North Korea and leader Kim Jong-un has been holding high-level meetings to ensure tight restrictions remain in place.

Analysts have said it is highly unlikely that North Korea has not experienced any coronavirus cases at all.

The behavior of&nbsp;Kim Jong-un's regime raises the question that what is likely to spread the Wuhan virus more?

A&nbsp;wave of yellow dust from miles away&nbsp;based on unproven science or hundreds of people packed into a single restaurant.

North Korea has warned its citizens to stay indoors over fears that "yellow dust" which blows in from China could infect the population with COVID-19. Yellow dust contains harmful ingredients and directly acts on the human respiratory system.

North Korea has warned its citizens to stay indoors over fears that "yellow dust" which blows in from China could infect the population with COVID-19. Yellow dust contains harmful ingredients and directly acts on the human respiratory system. Yellow dust refers to sand from Mongolian and Chinese deserts that blow into North and South Korea at certain times of the year. It is intermingled with toxic dust that for years has raised health concerns in both countries. However, Okryu-gwan, a restaurant in the capital Pyongyang, well known for serving North Korea's signature cuisine "Pyongyang naengmyeon", is operating at full capacity and is violating social distancing norms imposed due to the surge in coronavirus cases. × The famous restaurant is cramped up with customers without any booths to separate one from another. It is still working at a full capacity at a time when most eateries in the world are shutting down amid concerns of a second wave. Jong Sol Hung, one of the restaurant's managers, said "We will continue to work more closely on our emergency quarantine projects, while serving the people more actively, and thereby do our best to inspire the strong will of our people by the time the 80-day campaign is over." Despite claiming the country has no cases of coronavirus, there are deep fears about COVID-19 in North Korea and leader Kim Jong-un has been holding high-level meetings to ensure tight restrictions remain in place. Analysts have said it is highly unlikely that North Korea has not experienced any coronavirus cases at all. The behavior of Kim Jong-un's regime raises the question that what is likely to spread the Wuhan virus more? A wave of yellow dust from miles away based on unproven science or hundreds of people packed into a single restaurant.

North Korea on high alert due to yellow dust coming from China

A human&nbsp;rights group on Monday said that&nbsp;North Korean justice system treats people ''less than an animal''.

US-based Human Rights Watch called&nbsp;out the country's&nbsp;pretrial detention system and legal processes for the torture, humiliation and coerced confessions on&nbsp;detainees and officials.

North Korea has been&nbsp;accused of widespread rights abuses by the United Nations and other critics, is a "closed" country and little is known about its criminal justice system.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-top-aide-executed-by-north-korean-death-squad-reports-26770">Kim Jong-un's top aide executed by North Korean death squad: Reports</a>

The rights group&nbsp;drew on interviews with dozens of former North Korean detainees and officials to highlight what it called inhuman conditions at detention facilities that often amount to torture.

Mistreatment of detainees,&nbsp;beating with a stick or kicking,&nbsp;was "especially harsh" in the early stages of pretrial detention, interviewees said.

"The regulations say there shouldn't be any beatings, but we need confessions during the investigation and early stages of the preliminary examination," a former police officer said. "So you have to hit them in order to get the confession."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-officials-to-be-punished-after-typhoon-causes-dozens-of-casualties-325465">North Korea officials to be punished after typhoon causes 'dozens of casualties'</a>

Former detainees said they were forced to sit still on the floor, kneeling or with their legs crossed, for as long as 16 hours a day, with even a flicker of movement leading to punishment.

The punishments ranged from hitting,&nbsp;using hands, sticks, or leather belts,&nbsp;to forcing them to run in circles around a yard up to 1,000 times.

"If I or others moved (in the cell), the guards would order me or all the cellmates to extend our hands through the cell bars and would step on them repeatedly with their boots," said former detainee Park Ji Cheol.

Yoon Young Cheol, another former detainee, added: "There, you are just treated like you are worth less than an animal, and that's what you end up becoming."

Some female interviewees testified to rampant sexual violence at the facilities.

Kim Sun Young, a former trader in her 50s who fled North Korea in 2015 said she had been raped by her interrogator at a detention centre.

Another police officer sexually assaulted her by touching her underneath her clothes while interrogating her, Kim added, but said she had been "powerless to resist".

The report called on Pyongyang to "end endemic torture and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment in detention" and urged South Korea, the United States and other UN member states to "publicly and privately pressure the North Korean government".

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is the third generation of his family to rule the country, where state surveillance is widespread and dissent not tolerated.

The country already stands accused by the UN of "systematic, widespread and gross" human rights violations that range from torture, extrajudicial killings to running prison camps.

Pyongyang maintains that it protects and promotes "genuine human rights", and says there is no justification for the West to try to set human rights standards for the rest of the world.

It condemns international criticism on the issue as a smear campaign to undermine its "sacred socialist system".

A human rights group on Monday said that North Korean justice system treats people ''less than an animal''. US-based Human Rights Watch called out the country's pretrial detention system and legal processes for the torture, humiliation and coerced confessions on detainees and officials.

A human rights group on Monday said that North Korean justice system treats people ''less than an animal''. US-based Human Rights Watch called out the country's pretrial detention system and legal processes for the torture, humiliation and coerced confessions on detainees and officials. North Korea has been accused of widespread rights abuses by the United Nations and other critics, is a "closed" country and little is known about its criminal justice system. Also read: Kim Jong-un's top aide executed by North Korean death squad: Reports The rights group drew on interviews with dozens of former North Korean detainees and officials to highlight what it called inhuman conditions at detention facilities that often amount to torture. Mistreatment of detainees, beating with a stick or kicking, was "especially harsh" in the early stages of pretrial detention, interviewees said. "The regulations say there shouldn't be any beatings, but we need confessions during the investigation and early stages of the preliminary examination," a former police officer said. "So you have to hit them in order to get the confession." Also read: North Korea officials to be punished after typhoon causes 'dozens of casualties' Former detainees said they were forced to sit still on the floor, kneeling or with their legs crossed, for as long as 16 hours a day, with even a flicker of movement leading to punishment. The punishments ranged from hitting, using hands, sticks, or leather belts, to forcing them to run in circles around a yard up to 1,000 times. "If I or others moved (in the cell), the guards would order me or all the cellmates to extend our hands through the cell bars and would step on them repeatedly with their boots," said former detainee Park Ji Cheol. Yoon Young Cheol, another former detainee, added: "There, you are just treated like you are worth less than an animal, and that's what you end up becoming." Some female interviewees testified to rampant sexual violence at the facilities. Kim Sun Young, a former trader in her 50s who fled North Korea in 2015 said she had been raped by her interrogator at a detention centre. Another police officer sexually assaulted her by touching her underneath her clothes while interrogating her, Kim added, but said she had been "powerless to resist". The report called on Pyongyang to "end endemic torture and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment in detention" and urged South Korea, the United States and other UN member states to "publicly and privately pressure the North Korean government". North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is the third generation of his family to rule the country, where state surveillance is widespread and dissent not tolerated. The country already stands accused by the UN of "systematic, widespread and gross" human rights violations that range from torture, extrajudicial killings to running prison camps. Pyongyang maintains that it protects and promotes "genuine human rights", and says there is no justification for the West to try to set human rights standards for the rest of the world. It condemns international criticism on the issue as a smear campaign to undermine its "sacred socialist system".

Human Rights Watch says North Korean justice system treats people worse than animals

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