North Korea fired multiple ballistic missiles from the Pyongyang area toward the East Sea (Sea of Japan) on October 12, 2026, according to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff.


North Korea fires multiple ballistic missiles into Eastern Sea

Donald Trump has reopened the door to a new meeting with North Korea's Kim Jong Un. The two leaders have history, and any fresh sit-down would get global attention. We look at what Trump said, what a meeting could mean for the Korean peninsula, and why Pyongyang's answer matters. Watch the full breakdown, and tell us in the comments: would Kim say yes?


Donald Trump reopens the door to a new meeting with Kim Jong Un

North Korea has moved beyond simple missile testing, fusing drones, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles and rocket launchers into one coordinated strike force. Saturday's drill combined five artillery and missile units, firing simultaneously to overwhelm enemy air defences, with KCNA claiming "100% accuracy" (unverified). Notably, Kim Jong Un wasn't present. The exercise came a day after US-South Korea-Japan wrapped up trilateral drills, and despite Trump scaling back joint exercises to court Kim diplomatically, Pyongyang shows no sign of slowing down.


North Korea's missile arsenal: Kim shifts from testing to coordinated strike drills

A study has found that North Korean nuclear tests reactivated fault lines that had been quiet for a long time. This triggered hundreds of earthquakes that kept getting stronger, even years after its last test in 2017. Under Mount Mantap, the country detonated six nuclear devices between 2006 and 2017. Nuclear tests send reverberations through the ground, but in this case, they weren't temporary.&nbsp;Seismologist Kwang-Hee Kim of Pusan National University in South Korea told ScienceAlert that earthquakes after underground nuclear tests are not the surprising thing here, but how the seismicity evolved. "Instead of being strongest immediately after the explosion and then fading, the activity increased over several years," he said.&nbsp;North Korea's Punggye-ri nuclear test site sits under the 7,234-foot Mount Mantap. The first test happened in October 2006, and the last one came on 3 September 2017, which was the largest of all. It unleashed an estimated 100 to 250 kilotons of energy, enough to trigger a 6.3 magnitude earthquake.&nbsp;Such an explosion likely carved an underground cavity and sent intense stresses through the rock. It is believed to have crashed after cooling down just 8.5 minutes after the explosion. Experts point to the detection of a magnitude 4.1 seismic event at the time as proof.&nbsp;<h2>Earthquakes recorded weeks after the last nuclear test</h2>The test was over, and the cavity had collapsed. North Korea was not testing any more weapons. The earthquakes from Punggye-ri should have also slowly ebbed. However, more unexplained seismic activity was recorded three weeks later.&nbsp;Kim said, "The sustained tectonic seismicity began about 20 days later and then intensified over the following years." Scientists went through 17 years of seismic data recorded by stations in China and South Korea between 2008 and 2025.<h2>Mount Mantap had barely any earthquakes over hundreds of years</h2>Using a technique called matched-filter detection, they stumbled upon 1,399 tiny earthquakes which had been missed all this time. To figure out whether they had occurred from natural processes, the researchers gathered historical records on earthquakes in Mount Mantap, which isn't seismically active. They found almost nothing despite going back hundreds of years, barring a 6.7 magnitude quake in 1810 around 100 kilometres from the area. A few local events also happened after the 2013 nuclear test.&nbsp;The silence was ultimately broken on September 23, 2017. Several earthquakes were recorded in the following months, and continued to intensify instead of showing a drop.<h2>Perfect pattern of earthquake locations</h2>A total of 955 of the earthquakes were precisely traced to various locations, which mapped out two roughly parallel structures running north-northwest from the test site. This pattern showed that the tests had disturbed old weaknesses in the crust. To answer why the ground was still shaking years after the last test, the team inferred “that the repeated tests altered the mechanical balance of a heterogeneous crust that was already close to failure.”<h2>Why were earthquakes still occurring?</h2>&nbsp;The repeated explosions continued to have cumulative effects that caused earthquakes several kilometres away, which intensified years later. Kim added that the topography of Mount Mantap created variations in the stresses that were already affecting the shallow crust. So can a bigger earthquake happen one day?&nbsp;Researchers say theoretically this action could produce an earthquake of around magnitude 6.4, although this is merely a hypothesis. The finding shows that how underground nuclear tests affect the geology needs to be studied for much longer. The main problem is distinguishing between a natural earthquake and one that happens from nuclear testing.&nbsp;

North Korea's nuclear tests set off a chain of earthquakes that continue to shake the ground even today, years after the last test in a mountain region. They are not slowing down or falling in number and are instead becoming more intense, creating a puzzle. 

A study has found that North Korean nuclear tests reactivated fault lines that had been quiet for a long time. This triggered hundreds of earthquakes that kept getting stronger, even years after its last test in 2017. Under Mount Mantap, the country detonated six nuclear devices between 2006 and 2017. Nuclear tests send reverberations through the ground, but in this case, they weren't temporary. Seismologist Kwang-Hee Kim of Pusan National University in South Korea told ScienceAlert that earthquakes after underground nuclear tests are not the surprising thing here, but how the seismicity evolved. "Instead of being strongest immediately after the explosion and then fading, the activity increased over several years," he said. North Korea's Punggye-ri nuclear test site sits under the 7,234-foot Mount Mantap. The first test happened in October 2006, and the last one came on 3 September 2017, which was the largest of all. It unleashed an estimated 100 to 250 kilotons of energy, enough to trigger a 6.3 magnitude earthquake. Such an explosion likely carved an underground cavity and sent intense stresses through the rock. It is believed to have crashed after cooling down just 8.5 minutes after the explosion. Experts point to the detection of a magnitude 4.1 seismic event at the time as proof. Earthquakes recorded weeks after the last nuclear test The test was over, and the cavity had collapsed. North Korea was not testing any more weapons. The earthquakes from Punggye-ri should have also slowly ebbed. However, more unexplained seismic activity was recorded three weeks later. Kim said, "The sustained tectonic seismicity began about 20 days later and then intensified over the following years." Scientists went through 17 years of seismic data recorded by stations in China and South Korea between 2008 and 2025. Mount Mantap had barely any earthquakes over hundreds of years Using a technique called matched-filter detection, they stumbled upon 1,399 tiny earthquakes which had been missed all this time. To figure out whether they had occurred from natural processes, the researchers gathered historical records on earthquakes in Mount Mantap, which isn't seismically active. They found almost nothing despite going back hundreds of years, barring a 6.7 magnitude quake in 1810 around 100 kilometres from the area. A few local events also happened after the 2013 nuclear test. The silence was ultimately broken on September 23, 2017. Several earthquakes were recorded in the following months, and continued to intensify instead of showing a drop. Perfect pattern of earthquake locations A total of 955 of the earthquakes were precisely traced to various locations, which mapped out two roughly parallel structures running north-northwest from the test site. This pattern showed that the tests had disturbed old weaknesses in the crust. To answer why the ground was still shaking years after the last test, the team inferred “that the repeated tests altered the mechanical balance of a heterogeneous crust that was already close to failure.” Why were earthquakes still occurring? The repeated explosions continued to have cumulative effects that caused earthquakes several kilometres away, which intensified years later. Kim added that the topography of Mount Mantap created variations in the stresses that were already affecting the shallow crust. So can a bigger earthquake happen one day? Researchers say theoretically this action could produce an earthquake of around magnitude 6.4, although this is merely a hypothesis. The finding shows that how underground nuclear tests affect the geology needs to be studied for much longer. The main problem is distinguishing between a natural earthquake and one that happens from nuclear testing.

North Korea's nuclear tests set off a chain of earthquakes that continue to shake the ground even today, years after the last test in a mountain region. They are not slowing down or falling in number and are instead becoming more intense, creating a puzzle.&nbsp;

North Korea's last nuclear test in 2017 set off 1,399 earthquakes over 8 years, each stronger than previous

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, has warned of a stronger response to US-led military drills in the Asia-Pacific. She accused Washington and its allies of worsening tensions on the Korean Peninsula and described the Pacific Vanguard exercise near Guam as a threatening “war game”. Kim also said Pyongyang would mobilise available means if it believes its security and military sovereignty are seriously threatened. She reaffirmed North Korea’s commitment to strengthening its nuclear deterrent.


US-North Korea tensions explode, Kim Yo Jong warns of 'more offensive' response

In its first response after missile launches on Sat, North Korea said on Mon (Sep 14) that it conducted a joint live-fire drill involving missiles, artillery and drones. The official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) in a statement said that the drills demonstrated "the huge destructive power of concentration fire." After observing the drill, Marshal Pak Jong Chon said the drill would "improve the level of specialisation to bring down the enemy's armed forces organisationally and structurally once an order is issued." He added that the drill was meant to get familiar with the procedure for the operation of the integrated firepower control system.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-unleashes-5-000-tonne-nuclear-warship-kim-vows-to-build-more-nuclear-1788801611283">North Korea unleashes 5,000-tonne nuclear warship: Kim vows to build more nuclear</a>&nbsp;On Saturday, South Korea said that North had fired an unidentified projectile toward the Sea of Japan. The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff, in a statement, said that it detected the launch from around 5:20 a.m. (2020 GMT on Friday) that flew about 250 km (155 miles), toward the body of water that Koreans call the East Sea. South Korea’s National Security Office convened an emergency security situation review meeting and urged North Korea to immediately halt ballistic missile launches, calling them a serious violation of UN Security Council resolutions. The launches came just a day after South Korea concluded five days of joint maritime drills with the United States and Japan that were focused on North Korea.&nbsp;&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><h2>US said ‘no threat’</h2>US Pacific Command reacted to the launches but said that there was no immediate threat. “We are aware of the recent missile launch and are consulting closely with our allies and partners. Based on current assessments, this event does not pose an immediate threat to U.S. personnel or territory, or to our allies. The United States remains committed to the defense of the U.S. homeland and our allies in the region,” it said in a statement.<h2>Trump wants to meet Kim</h2>The statement came as US President Donald Trump is trying to make several overtures to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Last month, Trump shortened annual Ulchi Freedom Shield military exercises between South and US and called the drills "inappropriate and hostile" towards North Korea. Trump told reporters at the White House on August 19 he plans to meet the North Korean leader this year. The US president also said it was important to "get along" with Kim, adding that Pyongyang now had 57 "very powerful" nuclear weapons. Seoul has said the North has around 80-120 nuclear weapons. &nbsp;

North Korea said it conducted a joint live-fire drill involving missiles, artillery and drones after launching a projectile toward the Sea of Japan. The drills came as Trump seeks another meeting with Kim Jong Un, amid rising tensions with South Korea and the US.

In its first response after missile launches on Sat, North Korea said on Mon (Sep 14) that it conducted a joint live-fire drill involving missiles, artillery and drones. The official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) in a statement said that the drills demonstrated "the huge destructive power of concentration fire." After observing the drill, Marshal Pak Jong Chon said the drill would "improve the level of specialisation to bring down the enemy's armed forces organisationally and structurally once an order is issued." He added that the drill was meant to get familiar with the procedure for the operation of the integrated firepower control system. Also Read: North Korea unleashes 5,000-tonne nuclear warship: Kim vows to build more nuclear On Saturday, South Korea said that North had fired an unidentified projectile toward the Sea of Japan. The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff, in a statement, said that it detected the launch from around 5:20 a.m. (2020 GMT on Friday) that flew about 250 km (155 miles), toward the body of water that Koreans call the East Sea. South Korea’s National Security Office convened an emergency security situation review meeting and urged North Korea to immediately halt ballistic missile launches, calling them a serious violation of UN Security Council resolutions. The launches came just a day after South Korea concluded five days of joint maritime drills with the United States and Japan that were focused on North Korea. Also Read: North Korea fires missiles after US, South Korea and Japan military drills but America says 'does not pose immediate threat' US said ‘no threat’ US Pacific Command reacted to the launches but said that there was no immediate threat. “We are aware of the recent missile launch and are consulting closely with our allies and partners. Based on current assessments, this event does not pose an immediate threat to U.S. personnel or territory, or to our allies. The United States remains committed to the defense of the U.S. homeland and our allies in the region,” it said in a statement. Trump wants to meet Kim The statement came as US President Donald Trump is trying to make several overtures to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Last month, Trump shortened annual Ulchi Freedom Shield military exercises between South and US and called the drills "inappropriate and hostile" towards North Korea. Trump told reporters at the White House on August 19 he plans to meet the North Korean leader this year. The US president also said it was important to "get along" with Kim, adding that Pyongyang now had 57 "very powerful" nuclear weapons. Seoul has said the North has around 80-120 nuclear weapons.

North Korea said it conducted a joint live-fire drill involving missiles, artillery and drones after launching a projectile toward the Sea of Japan. The drills came as Trump seeks another meeting with Kim Jong Un, amid rising tensions with South Korea and the US.

'Huge destructive power': North Korea calls its latest missile launches 'live-fire drill' even as US dismisses 'immediate threat'

North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles toward the sea early Saturday, just a day after the US, South Korea and Japan wrapped up five days of joint naval drills, exercises Pyongyang has long condemned as a security threat. The missiles, fired from the Wonsan area, flew about 250 km toward the East Sea. South Korea's military said it's closely sharing information on the launches with the US and Japan, and held an emergency security meeting following the incident.

North Korea fires ballistic missiles: Following US-S Korea-Japan drills

North Korea has fired an unidentified projectile toward the Sea of Japan on Saturday (Sep 12), South Korea's Defense Ministry said. This came just a day after South Korea concluded five days of joint maritime drills with the United States and Japan that were focused on North Korea. The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff, in a statement, said that it detected the launch from around 5:20 a.m. (2020 GMT on Friday) that flew about 250 km (155 miles), toward the body of water that Koreans call the East Sea. South Korea’s National Security Office convened an emergency security situation review meeting, according to a separate statement. It urged North Korea to immediately halt ballistic missile launches, calling them a serious violation of UN Security Council resolutions.&nbsp;"South Korea's military is closely monitoring North Korean activity and maintaining ​the capability and readiness to respond overwhelmingly to any provocation under its combined defence posture with ​the United States," the JCS said in a statement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/north-korea-may-have-80-to-120-nuclear-weapons-1787218219998">North Korea may have 80 to 120 nuclear weapons</a>&nbsp;North Korea had slammed plans for the drills named ‘Freedom Edge exercises’ in international waters off South Korea as a "threat" to Pyongyang and other countries of the region. North Korea’s defense minister, Kim Song Gi had warned North Korea was capable of taking “strong and reflective countermeasures from the standpoint of power."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-unleashes-5-000-tonne-nuclear-warship-kim-vows-to-build-more-nuclear-1788801611283">North Korea unleashes 5,000-tonne nuclear warship: Kim vows to build more nuclear</a><h2>How US reacted?</h2>US Pacific Command also released a statement and said that it was aware of the launches, but based on its current assessment, it declared that they did not pose an immediate threat to US personnel, territory or allies. “We are aware of the recent missile launch and are consulting closely with our allies and partners. Based on current assessments, this event does not pose an immediate threat to U.S. personnel or territory, or to our allies. The United States remains committed to the defense of the U.S. homeland and our allies in the region,” it said in a statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;The statement comes amid US President Donald Trump's makes another overture to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Trump also shortened annual Ulchi Freedom Shield military exercises between South and US and called the drills "inappropriate and hostile" towards North Korea. Trump told reporters at the White House on August 19 he plans to meet the North Korean leader this year. The US president also said it was important to "get along" with Kim, adding that Pyongyang now had 57 "very powerful" nuclear weapons. Seoul has said the North has around 80-120 nuclear weapons.

North Korea fired an unidentified projectile towards the Sea of Japan on Saturday, days after South Korea, the US and Japan concluded joint maritime drills. Seoul condemned the launch, while Washington said it posed no immediate threat to its personnel, territory or allies

North Korea has fired an unidentified projectile toward the Sea of Japan on Saturday (Sep 12), South Korea's Defense Ministry said. This came just a day after South Korea concluded five days of joint maritime drills with the United States and Japan that were focused on North Korea. The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff, in a statement, said that it detected the launch from around 5:20 a.m. (2020 GMT on Friday) that flew about 250 km (155 miles), toward the body of water that Koreans call the East Sea. South Korea’s National Security Office convened an emergency security situation review meeting, according to a separate statement. It urged North Korea to immediately halt ballistic missile launches, calling them a serious violation of UN Security Council resolutions. "South Korea's military is closely monitoring North Korean activity and maintaining the capability and readiness to respond overwhelmingly to any provocation under its combined defence posture with the United States," the JCS said in a statement. Also Read: North Korea may have 80 to 120 nuclear weapons North Korea had slammed plans for the drills named ‘Freedom Edge exercises’ in international waters off South Korea as a "threat" to Pyongyang and other countries of the region. North Korea’s defense minister, Kim Song Gi had warned North Korea was capable of taking “strong and reflective countermeasures from the standpoint of power." Also Read: North Korea unleashes 5,000-tonne nuclear warship: Kim vows to build more nuclear How US reacted? US Pacific Command also released a statement and said that it was aware of the launches, but based on its current assessment, it declared that they did not pose an immediate threat to US personnel, territory or allies. “We are aware of the recent missile launch and are consulting closely with our allies and partners. Based on current assessments, this event does not pose an immediate threat to U.S. personnel or territory, or to our allies. The United States remains committed to the defense of the U.S. homeland and our allies in the region,” it said in a statement. The statement comes amid US President Donald Trump's makes another overture to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Trump also shortened annual Ulchi Freedom Shield military exercises between South and US and called the drills "inappropriate and hostile" towards North Korea. Trump told reporters at the White House on August 19 he plans to meet the North Korean leader this year. The US president also said it was important to "get along" with Kim, adding that Pyongyang now had 57 "very powerful" nuclear weapons. Seoul has said the North has around 80-120 nuclear weapons.

North Korea fired an unidentified projectile towards the Sea of Japan on Saturday, days after South Korea, the US and Japan concluded joint maritime drills. Seoul condemned the launch, while Washington said it posed no immediate threat to its personnel, territory or allies

North Korea fires missiles after US, South Korea and Japan military drills but America says 'does not pose immediate threat'

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un has often kept his family life shrouded in secrecy. Now, South Korea's intelligence agency says it is trying to determine whether Kim has an older son. While speculation over a possible male heir has resurfaced, officials stress that even if such a son exists, he is not currently in a position to succeed the North Korean leader. The revelation has sparked fresh questions about the future of the Kim dynasty and succession plans in the isolated state.


Kim Jong Un's secret heir? South Korea hunts for evidence of an older son

North Korea has issued a strong warning to Japan, threatening what it described as “enormous misfortune” amid rising tensions between the two countries. The warning adds to growing concerns over security in East Asia and the broader tensions involving North Korea, Japan and the region.

North Korea warns Japan of enormous misfortune

North Korea has commissioned its second 5,000-tonne naval destroyer, the Kang Kon, as Kim Jong Un vows to strengthen the country’s nuclear deterrent. Kim says the warship will become part of North Korea’s nuclear response system and deliver powerful retaliatory strikes. However, Pyongyang has not explicitly confirmed that the vessel carries nuclear weapons. The launch comes as the U.S., South Korea and Japan conduct a trilateral military exercise that North Korea views as a growing security threat.

North Korea unleashes 5,000-tonne nuclear warship: Kim vows to build more nuclear

South Korea, Japan and the United States have joined forces in a fresh military drill aimed at strengthening deterrence against North Korean threats. The exercise highlights growing security cooperation among the three allies as tensions on the Korean Peninsula remain high. With Pyongyang closely watching military activity in the region, what message are Seoul, Tokyo and Washington sending to North Korea?

S. Korea, Japan, U.S. Military drill to enhance deterrence to North Korean threats 

New rules in North Korea are giving leader Kim Jong-Un greater control over the country’s ruling party leadership, potentially strengthening his grip over the political system. The changes could reshape how key party positions are managed and further consolidate power around the North Korean leader. 

New rules give North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un greater control over party leadership

South Korea's spy agency says a Trump-Kim Jong Un summit could take place "at any time," citing signs of renewed dialogue between Washington and Pyongyang — even though no concrete contact has been confirmed. This comes despite North Korea publicly branding US policy "hostile," dismissing Trump's recent scaling back of joint military drills with South Korea. In the same briefing, the National Intelligence Service also revealed that Kim Jong Un's daughter, Kim Ju Ae, appears to be entering a formal successor-designation stage.

Trump-Kim summit could happen 'any time': South Korea spy agency 

North Korea is closing the door on diplomacy. Kim Jong Un has formally rejected Donald Trump's latest overtures, declaring his nuclear program absolutely irreversible. In a hard-hitting speech to the Supreme People's Assembly, Kim said nukes are the ultimate guarantee for defending sovereignty and accused the US of global state terrorism, pointing to its actions in Iran. He vowed an exponential boost in nuclear forces, saying weapons-grade material production has more than doubled in 5 years. Pyongyang says it will only talk if Washington recognizes it as a nuclear power and drops its hostile policy. No denuclearization, no compromise.


Kim Jong Un formally rejects Donald Trump's diplomatic overtures 

U.S. President Donald Trump is making a fresh push to revive diplomacy with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The move comes amid ongoing tensions on the Korean Peninsula and concerns over Pyongyang's expanding missile and nuclear programs. Trump, who previously held historic summits with Kim, is seeking to re-engage in dialogue as part of a broader effort to reduce regional tensions. However, major challenges remain, including sanctions, security guarantees, and North Korea's nuclear ambitions.


US President Donald Trump pushes to revive talks with North Korea's Kim Jong Un

 North Korea denied any direct communication between leader Kim Jong Un and U. S. President Donald Trump. The statement rejects Trump's claim of recent contact. 


North Korea 'snubs' Trump, has no desire to talk to America 

#Gravitas North Korea denied any direct communication between leader Kim Jong Un and U. S. President Donald Trump. The statement rejects Trump's claim of recent contact. 


North Korea has fired a suspected ballistic missile, Japanese authorities said, in another show of force by Pyongyang. The launch comes amid heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula and growing concern over North Korea's missile capabilities. Japan and South Korea are closely monitoring the situation as officials assess the missile's trajectory and other details.

North Korea fires ballistic missile ahead of major US-South Korea war drills

Donald Trump has once again highlighted his relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, saying it is "very important" for the two leaders to get along. Trump reaffirmed that he shares good ties with Kim and pointed to North Korea's growing nuclear arsenal, claiming Pyongyang possesses 57 nuclear weapons. His remarks also included praise for North Korea while drawing criticism toward South Korea, sparking fresh debate over Washington's approach to the Korean Peninsula and regional security.


Trump reveals North Korea's nuclear strength, says ties with Kim are 'very important' 

North Korea on Wednesday said that the move by US President Donald Trump to "substantially reduce" joint military exercises with South Korea does not change what it sees as the provocative nature of the drills. The comment was made by Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.&nbsp;"We think it's not worth making comments on that and we have no interest in it at all," Kim Yo Jong said in a statement carried by state media.&nbsp;"The provocative, aggressive nature of the drills won't change even though their duration and size were reduced," she added citing a series of other military drills carried out by the US and South Korea earlier this year.&nbsp;Kim Yo Jong also denied claims made by Trump that both the leaders are having any kind of communication. Earlier this week, Trump replying to a question by a reporter whether he had a conversation with Kim Jong Un, Trump said that Kim had responded to his request for a conversation.&nbsp;Trump &nbsp;on Aug 17 had said the US will "substantially reduce" joint military exercises with South Korea, citing his "very good relationship" with North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un. He said that these exercise costs a lot to the US.&nbsp;"Based on my very good relationship with Kim Jong Un, of North Korea, I am not happy with the fact that the United States has, long ago, agreed to participate in Joint Military Exercises with South Korea. These exercises are not only costly, with much of these costs paid for by the United States of America (as usual!), but send a signal that is totally inappropriate and hostile, to a Country that, as long as Donald J. Trump has been President, has been unthreatening and respectful," wrote Trump. &nbsp;

Kim Yo Jong, he powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, also denied claims made by Trump that both the leaders are having any kind of communication.

North Korea on Wednesday said that the move by US President Donald Trump to "substantially reduce" joint military exercises with South Korea does not change what it sees as the provocative nature of the drills. The comment was made by Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. "We think it's not worth making comments on that and we have no interest in it at all," Kim Yo Jong said in a statement carried by state media. "The provocative, aggressive nature of the drills won't change even though their duration and size were reduced," she added citing a series of other military drills carried out by the US and South Korea earlier this year. Kim Yo Jong also denied claims made by Trump that both the leaders are having any kind of communication. Earlier this week, Trump replying to a question by a reporter whether he had a conversation with Kim Jong Un, Trump said that Kim had responded to his request for a conversation. Trump on Aug 17 had said the US will "substantially reduce" joint military exercises with South Korea, citing his "very good relationship" with North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un. He said that these exercise costs a lot to the US. "Based on my very good relationship with Kim Jong Un, of North Korea, I am not happy with the fact that the United States has, long ago, agreed to participate in Joint Military Exercises with South Korea. These exercises are not only costly, with much of these costs paid for by the United States of America (as usual!), but send a signal that is totally inappropriate and hostile, to a Country that, as long as Donald J. Trump has been President, has been unthreatening and respectful," wrote Trump.

Kim Yo Jong, he powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, also denied claims made by Trump that both the leaders are having any kind of communication.

'No interest in it at all': North Korea on Trump's scaled-back drills with South Korea

United States President Donald Trump has emphasized the critical importance of maintaining a positive personal rapport with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, stating that their mutual understanding helps stabilize the Korean Peninsula. In recent statements, Trump highlighted that Kim has consistently treated him with respect and noted that ongoing diplomatic engagement remains a priority for constructive bilateral relations.


US-North Korea ties: Trump says very important for him and Kim to get along

North Korea on Wednesday (Aug 19) denounced joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea as a direct threat to its security. Notably, Pyongyang's state media made no mention of US President Donald Trump's surprise decision to scale back the drills.A commentary published by the state-run Korean Central News Agency described the exercises as "the most immediate and open threat" to North Korea and regional security. The commentary, titled "We Will Exercise Our Right to Self-defence for Neutralizing Military Threat from Hostile Forces through More Transparent Action," repeated Pyongyang's long-standing accusation that the drills are rehearsals for an invasion.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-wartime-operational-control-transfer-us-1787060539278">South Korea to press ahead with wartime operational control transfer from US</a><h2>Pyongyang ignores Trump's decision</h2>The North Korean statement came after Trump ordered the Pentagon on Sunday to reduce the scale of the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises, just one day before they were scheduled to begin.Trump described the exercises as "inappropriate and hostile" and has also spoken positively about North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. He criticised South Korea for not backing his administration's war against Iran.Despite the change ordered by Trump, KCNA did not acknowledge the decision in its latest commentary. It also made no reference to Trump's stated interest in restarting talks with Kim.Trump said Monday that Kim had responded to his recent overtures, although he did not disclose details about the communication.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inane-senator-jack-reed-slams-trump-s-decision-to-downsize-us-south-korea-military-drills-1786979125833">'Inane’: Senator Jack Reed slams Trump’s decision to downsize US-South Korea military drills</a><h2>US troops remain in South Korea</h2>The United States maintains about 28,500 troops in South Korea, part of the longstanding US military presence established after the 1950-53 Korean War. The war ended with an armistice rather than a formal peace treaty, leaving the Korean Peninsula technically in a state of conflict.North Korea has consistently opposed US-South Korean military exercises, arguing that they threaten its security. Washington and Seoul, however, have maintained that the drills are defensive and designed to prepare their forces for a potential conflict.

Trump has scaled back the annual US-South Korea military drills, but North Korea is not backing down. Pyongyang has called the exercises an immediate threat to its security while making no mention of the US president's surprise decision.

North Korea on Wednesday (Aug 19) denounced joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea as a direct threat to its security. Notably, Pyongyang's state media made no mention of US President Donald Trump's surprise decision to scale back the drills. A commentary published by the state-run Korean Central News Agency described the exercises as "the most immediate and open threat" to North Korea and regional security. The commentary, titled "We Will Exercise Our Right to Self-defence for Neutralizing Military Threat from Hostile Forces through More Transparent Action," repeated Pyongyang's long-standing accusation that the drills are rehearsals for an invasion. Also read | South Korea to press ahead with wartime operational control transfer from US Pyongyang ignores Trump's decision The North Korean statement came after Trump ordered the Pentagon on Sunday to reduce the scale of the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises, just one day before they were scheduled to begin. Trump described the exercises as "inappropriate and hostile" and has also spoken positively about North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. He criticised South Korea for not backing his administration's war against Iran. Despite the change ordered by Trump, KCNA did not acknowledge the decision in its latest commentary. It also made no reference to Trump's stated interest in restarting talks with Kim. Trump said Monday that Kim had responded to his recent overtures, although he did not disclose details about the communication. Also read | 'Inane’: Senator Jack Reed slams Trump’s decision to downsize US-South Korea military drills US troops remain in South Korea The United States maintains about 28,500 troops in South Korea, part of the longstanding US military presence established after the 1950-53 Korean War. The war ended with an armistice rather than a formal peace treaty, leaving the Korean Peninsula technically in a state of conflict. North Korea has consistently opposed US-South Korean military exercises, arguing that they threaten its security. Washington and Seoul, however, have maintained that the drills are defensive and designed to prepare their forces for a potential conflict.

Trump has scaled back the annual US-South Korea military drills, but North Korea is not backing down. Pyongyang has called the exercises an immediate threat to its security while making no mention of the US president's surprise decision.

'Most immediate threat': North Korea blasts US-South Korea drills despite Trump's surprise cut

U.S. President Donald Trump has cited his "very good relationship" with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as a key factor behind his decision to significantly scale back joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea. Trump argued that the large-scale drills send an "inappropriate and hostile" message to Pyongyang and could undermine diplomatic efforts on the Korean Peninsula.

The move has sparked debate among security experts and regional allies, with supporters viewing it as a confidence-building measure while critics warn it could affect military readiness. The decision comes amid renewed focus on U.S.-North Korea relations and broader security dynamics in East Asia.

US President: North Korea has been unthreatening

Donald Trump takes a softer stance on North Korea's Kim Jong Un, strains ties with S. Korea 

S Korea-US military drills: Trump rewards North Korea for maintaining 'very good ties'

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

The United States and South Korea are set to begin joint military drills, prompting North Korea to warn that it could respond with military action. The exercises come amid heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula and continued concerns over regional security.


North Korea condemns US-South Korea drills, threatens stronger deterrence 

North Korean defectors from the Punggye-ri area of North Hamgyong province, the country's only underground nuclear test site, have chromosomal mutations. According to a study conducted by South Korea's unification ministry, radiation has led to genetic changes in 64 of 214 North Koreans. This means every one in three of the defectors has mutations. The study was carried out over five years, with the latest series of tests being conducted last year.&nbsp;The researchers noted that 26 out of 59 North Koreans who lived in eight cities and counties near Punggye-ri had chromosomal abnormalities. Notably, at least 800 people who resided in that part of North Korea have now settled in South Korea. An official at the National Radiation Emergency Medical Centre said that radiation from the nuclear tests carried out in the area was the most likely cause of these mutations.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-reveals-ambitious-plan-for-nuclear-armed-north-korean-navy-1782263767554">Kim Jong Un reveals ambitious plan for nuclear-armed North Korean navy</a>&nbsp;While sharing the report with South Korea's National Assembly, the officials cautioned that it is possible that the changes are tied to environmental factors. More tests are needed to establish a clear link between the nuclear tests and the genetic changes, they said. They are now planning to carry out a fresh set of tests on 50 new defectors from North Korea, and 10 who had already been checked.<h2>Nuclear tests at North Korean site</h2>The Punggye-ri underground nuclear test site is no longer functional. The first nuclear test here was carried out in 2006, although it isn't clear whether it was a successful test of a small device or simply a fizzle. North Korea conducted two nuclear tests at the site in 2016. The next year, a collapse killed 200 workers. This led to warnings of radiation leaks by South Korea and China.&nbsp;Seoul said that further tests might cause a mountain to crash and trigger the release of radioactive material into the environment, while China cautioned that this release might spread across "an entire hemisphere". The government's mouthpiece KCNA said that the nuclear test ground had been dismantled and the tunnel entrances had closed. In 2022, analysts said that North Korea could be fixing it for nuclear cruise missile warhead tests.&nbsp;

Nuclear tests at the Punggye-ri area of North Korea likely left people with genetic mutations, according to a new report. People from the area who defected to the South have been affected by nuclear tests carried out at the site over the years. 

North Korean defectors from the Punggye-ri area of North Hamgyong province, the country's only underground nuclear test site, have chromosomal mutations. According to a study conducted by South Korea's unification ministry, radiation has led to genetic changes in 64 of 214 North Koreans. This means every one in three of the defectors has mutations. The study was carried out over five years, with the latest series of tests being conducted last year. The researchers noted that 26 out of 59 North Koreans who lived in eight cities and counties near Punggye-ri had chromosomal abnormalities. Notably, at least 800 people who resided in that part of North Korea have now settled in South Korea. An official at the National Radiation Emergency Medical Centre said that radiation from the nuclear tests carried out in the area was the most likely cause of these mutations. Also Read: Kim Jong Un reveals ambitious plan for nuclear-armed North Korean navy While sharing the report with South Korea's National Assembly, the officials cautioned that it is possible that the changes are tied to environmental factors. More tests are needed to establish a clear link between the nuclear tests and the genetic changes, they said. They are now planning to carry out a fresh set of tests on 50 new defectors from North Korea, and 10 who had already been checked. Nuclear tests at North Korean site The Punggye-ri underground nuclear test site is no longer functional. The first nuclear test here was carried out in 2006, although it isn't clear whether it was a successful test of a small device or simply a fizzle. North Korea conducted two nuclear tests at the site in 2016. The next year, a collapse killed 200 workers. This led to warnings of radiation leaks by South Korea and China. Seoul said that further tests might cause a mountain to crash and trigger the release of radioactive material into the environment, while China cautioned that this release might spread across "an entire hemisphere". The government's mouthpiece KCNA said that the nuclear test ground had been dismantled and the tunnel entrances had closed. In 2022, analysts said that North Korea could be fixing it for nuclear cruise missile warhead tests.

Nuclear tests at the Punggye-ri area of North Korea likely left people with genetic mutations, according to a new report. People from the area who defected to the South have been affected by nuclear tests carried out at the site over the years.&nbsp;

North Korean nuclear site at risk of radiation release left residents with mutations: Report

Japan has marked the 81st anniversary of the Hiroshima atomic bombing, with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba reaffirming the country's commitment to its long-standing non-nuclear principles.

Thousands gathered at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park to honor the victims of the world's first atomic bombing on August 6, 1945. During the ceremony, Japan pledged to continue supporting global nuclear disarmament while maintaining its commitment to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

The commemoration comes as Japan undertakes its largest military buildup since World War II, citing growing regional security challenges from China, North Korea, and closer Russia-China-North Korea cooperation. The country recently conducted its first live-fire test of a U.S.-made Tomahawk cruise missile, highlighting its expanding conventional defense capabilities.

Japan Honors Hiroshima Victims While Expanding Military Capabilities | Hiroshima Anniversary

North Korea on Wednesday accused Japan of turning itself into a "war state" as Tokyo continues to strengthen its military capabilities across the Pacific.&nbsp;The remarks came from Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, after Japan stepped up defence spending, expanded military partnerships and increased deployments on its outer islands.&nbsp;A day earlier, Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said the country must strengthen its military with a "sense of urgency and crisis" following a new government assessment that identified China, Russia and North Korea as growing security threats.&nbsp;In a statement published by the Korean Central News Agency, Kim Yo Jong said Pyongyang's "leadership will set up additional military options which are obviously due to Japan's transformation"."Japan, a war criminal state, is accelerating its transformation into a war state," the statement said.North Korea cites military drills and missile tests&nbsp;Kim pointed to Japan's recent Tomahawk long-range cruise missile test and its participation in United States-led military exercises in the Philippines in May as signs of Washington's support for what she described as "dangerous military moves" in the Pacific.&nbsp;She also accused Tokyo of moving "to formulate the possession of the capability for preemptive attack", adding, "We will never remain a passive onlooker to the military evolution of Japan which may pose a grave threat."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-draws-up-new-nuclear-strategy-in-the-event-of-war-with-russia-and-china-1785952387235">Pentagon draws up new nuclear strategy in the event of war with Russia and China</a><h2>Japan defends military build-up</h2>Japan's Defence Ministry declined to respond directly to Kim's remarks but said the country's defence capabilities "remain bare minimum" and "are not meant to threaten other countries".&nbsp;"Ours isn't the defence meant to wage wars, but to prevent new wars, strictly kept to self-defence and within the scope of our (pacifist) Constitution and international laws," the ministry said.&nbsp;The ministry also confirmed that last week's Tomahawk missile test was Japan's first and said the country plans to acquire up to 400 Tomahawk missiles by the end of fiscal 2027.&nbsp;Japan ruled the Korean Peninsula until its surrender in the Second World War in 1945, after which Korea was divided into two states along the 38th parallel. The legacy of that colonial period continues to influence relations between Japan and both North and South Korea.&nbsp;Kim also warned, "If the descendants of militarism, who have inherited the genes of cunning and aggression, have seized deadly weapons in their hands, something unpleasant will happen."&nbsp;Japan increased its military spending by 9.7 per cent to $62.2 billion in 2025, taking defence expenditure to 1.4 per cent of its GDP, the highest share since 1958.

North Korea accused Japan of becoming a "war state" and warned of additional military measures after Tokyo expanded its defence capabilities and increased military activities in the Pacific.

North Korea on Wednesday accused Japan of turning itself into a "war state" as Tokyo continues to strengthen its military capabilities across the Pacific. The remarks came from Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, after Japan stepped up defence spending, expanded military partnerships and increased deployments on its outer islands. A day earlier, Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said the country must strengthen its military with a "sense of urgency and crisis" following a new government assessment that identified China, Russia and North Korea as growing security threats. In a statement published by the Korean Central News Agency, Kim Yo Jong said Pyongyang's "leadership will set up additional military options which are obviously due to Japan's transformation". "Japan, a war criminal state, is accelerating its transformation into a war state," the statement said. North Korea cites military drills and missile tests Kim pointed to Japan's recent Tomahawk long-range cruise missile test and its participation in United States-led military exercises in the Philippines in May as signs of Washington's support for what she described as "dangerous military moves" in the Pacific. She also accused Tokyo of moving "to formulate the possession of the capability for preemptive attack", adding, "We will never remain a passive onlooker to the military evolution of Japan which may pose a grave threat." Also Read: Pentagon draws up new nuclear strategy in the event of war with Russia and China Japan defends military build-up Japan's Defence Ministry declined to respond directly to Kim's remarks but said the country's defence capabilities "remain bare minimum" and "are not meant to threaten other countries". "Ours isn't the defence meant to wage wars, but to prevent new wars, strictly kept to self-defence and within the scope of our (pacifist) Constitution and international laws," the ministry said. The ministry also confirmed that last week's Tomahawk missile test was Japan's first and said the country plans to acquire up to 400 Tomahawk missiles by the end of fiscal 2027. Japan ruled the Korean Peninsula until its surrender in the Second World War in 1945, after which Korea was divided into two states along the 38th parallel. The legacy of that colonial period continues to influence relations between Japan and both North and South Korea. Kim also warned, "If the descendants of militarism, who have inherited the genes of cunning and aggression, have seized deadly weapons in their hands, something unpleasant will happen." Japan increased its military spending by 9.7 per cent to $62.2 billion in 2025, taking defence expenditure to 1.4 per cent of its GDP, the highest share since 1958.

North Korea accused Japan of becoming a "war state" and warned of additional military measures after Tokyo expanded its defence capabilities and increased military activities in the Pacific.

North Korea accuses Japan of becoming a 'war state' amid military buildup

north-korea

North Korea, News on North Korea, stories on North Korea, articles on North Korea, North Korea stories at Wion, North Korea news, North Korea latest news

north korea

North Korea fires multiple ballistic missiles into Eastern Sea

Donald Trump reopens the door to a new meeting with Kim Jong Un

North Korea's missile arsenal: Kim shifts from testing to coordinated strike drills

North Korea's last nuclear test in 2017 set off 1,399 earthquakes for 8 years

US-North Korea tensions explode, Kim Yo Jong warns of 'more offensive' response

North Korea calls missile launches 'live-fire drill' but US dismisses 'threat'

North Korea fires ballistic missiles: Following US-S Korea-Japan drills

North Korea fires missiles toward sea but US says 'no immediate threat'

Kim Jong Un's secret heir? South Korea hunts for evidence of an older son

North Korea warns Japan of enormous misfortune

North Korea unleashes 5,000-tonne nuclear warship: Kim vows to build more nuclear

S. Korea, Japan, U.S. Military drill to enhance deterrence to North Korean threats

New rules give North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un greater control over party leadership

Trump-Kim summit could happen 'any time': South Korea spy agency

Kim Jong Un formally rejects Donald Trump's diplomatic overtures

US President Donald Trump pushes to revive talks with North Korea's Kim Jong Un

North Korea 'snubs' Trump, has no desire to talk to America

North Korea 'snubs' Trump, has no desire to talk to America

North Korea fires ballistic missile ahead of major US-South Korea war drills

Trump reveals North Korea's nuclear strength, says ties with Kim are 'very important'

'No interest at all': North Korea on Trump's scaled-back drills with South Korea

US-North Korea ties: Trump says very important for him and Kim to get along

'Most immediate threat': North Korea blasts US-South Korea drills

US President: North Korea has been unthreatening

Donald Trump takes a softer stance on North Korea's Kim Jong Un, strains ties with S. Korea

S Korea-US military drills: Trump rewards North Korea for maintaining 'very good ties'