US intelligence officials have determined that North Korea has provided Russia with ballistic missiles and missile launchers that were used in recent attacks on Ukraine in a major escalation of support for Moscow.

Russia-Ukraine War: US says Russia using North Korean missiles for attacks on Ukraine

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

Tensions in Korean Peninsula: South Korea's evacuation orders for Yeonpyeong Island | WION

South Korean and US troops recently conducted joint combat firing drills near the North Korean border, utilizing heavy weapons in an exercise aimed at testing and enhancing combat readiness.

South Korea, US hold firing drills near North Korea border

North Korea: Allies pushing region into brink of Nuclear War

South Korea, US conduct week-long firing drills near North Korea border

Will there be another war between the Koreas? North Korea's Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un has asked his troops to prepare for war & be ready to 'annihilate' the enemy. Priyanka Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas | Will North & South Korea go to war again?

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

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

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

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

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

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

North Korea has set its policy goals for next year, including launching three additional military reconnaissance satellites and building unmanned aerial vehicles to Advance North Korea's military. However, Pyongyang has not yet released any information regarding the new satellite.

North Korea: Pyongyang aims to build unmanned aerial vehicles in 2024

North Korea  to launch 3 additional military satellites next year

North Korea sets policy goals for next year, plans to launch 3 new spy satellites

North Korea said that it will no longer seek reunification and reconciliation with South Korea as leader Kim Jong Un declared that his country vows&nbsp;to place three new military spy satellites into orbit in 2024. 
 
Speaking about inter-Korean relations, Kim said that it had become “a relationship between two hostile countries and two belligerents at war”, as reported by the state-run news agency KCNA. 
 
“It’s time for us to acknowledge the reality and clarify our relationship with the South,” said Kim, adding that if Washington and Seoul were to attempt a military confrontation with Pyongyang, its “nuclear war deterrent will not hesitate to take serious action.” 
 
“I believe that it is a mistake that we must no longer make to deal with the people who declare us as ‘the main enemy’ and seek only opportunities for ‘[our] regime collapse’ and ‘unification by absorption’ by collaborating for reconciliation and unification,” the North Korean leader added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-officials-attend-year-end-political-meeting-in-luxury-cars-despite-un-sanctions-674349">North Korean officials attend year-end political meeting in luxury cars despite ban</a>

North and South Korea have remained detached from each other after the Korean War ended in 1953 with an armistice. The two countries have been at war technically but both the governments have been seeking the goal of reunifying one day.

<h2 lang="en-US">North Korea to launch three new spy satellites in 2024</h2>

Meanwhile, North Korea's state media reported Sunday (Dec 31) that the country has planned to launch three more spy satellites in 2024 as part of its measures to ramp up its military. 
 
Last month, a spy satellite was successfully placed into an orbit by Pyongyang and since then, it has claimed to be providing images of major US and South Korean military sites. 
 
The country this year also carried out a record-breaking number of weapons tests, which included the launch of the country's most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) this month. 
 
"The task of launching three additional reconnaissance satellites in 2024 was declared" as one of the key major decisions at a year-end party meeting for next year, said the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Watch:&nbsp;Japan, US, South Korea share real-time data on North Korea's missiles

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-us-south-korea-share-real-time-data-on-north-koreas-missiles-world-news-wion-671337/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The five-day meeting, which came to an end on Saturday, also saw participation of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. 
 
"The United States, which has long caused and worsened political instability on the Korean peninsula, continues to pose various types of military threat to our country even as the year is coming to an end," said Kim. 
 
In the wake of growing missile and nuclear threats from Pyongyang this year, Seoul, Tokyo and Washington ramped up defence co-operation and also activated a system for sharing real-time data on missile launches by North Korea.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea said that it will no longer seek reunification and reconciliation with South Korea as leader Kim Jong Un declared that his country vows to place three new military spy satellites into orbit in 2024.

North Korea said that it will no longer seek reunification and reconciliation with South Korea as leader Kim Jong Un declared that his country vows to place three new military spy satellites into orbit in 2024. Speaking about inter-Korean relations, Kim said that it had become “a relationship between two hostile countries and two belligerents at war”, as reported by the state-run news agency KCNA. “It’s time for us to acknowledge the reality and clarify our relationship with the South,” said Kim, adding that if Washington and Seoul were to attempt a military confrontation with Pyongyang, its “nuclear war deterrent will not hesitate to take serious action.” “I believe that it is a mistake that we must no longer make to deal with the people who declare us as ‘the main enemy’ and seek only opportunities for ‘[our] regime collapse’ and ‘unification by absorption’ by collaborating for reconciliation and unification,” the North Korean leader added. Also read: North Korean officials attend year-end political meeting in luxury cars despite ban North and South Korea have remained detached from each other after the Korean War ended in 1953 with an armistice. The two countries have been at war technically but both the governments have been seeking the goal of reunifying one day. North Korea to launch three new spy satellites in 2024 Meanwhile, North Korea's state media reported Sunday (Dec 31) that the country has planned to launch three more spy satellites in 2024 as part of its measures to ramp up its military. Last month, a spy satellite was successfully placed into an orbit by Pyongyang and since then, it has claimed to be providing images of major US and South Korean military sites. The country this year also carried out a record-breaking number of weapons tests, which included the launch of the country's most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) this month. "The task of launching three additional reconnaissance satellites in 2024 was declared" as one of the key major decisions at a year-end party meeting for next year, said the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Watch: Japan, US, South Korea share real-time data on North Korea's missiles The five-day meeting, which came to an end on Saturday, also saw participation of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. "The United States, which has long caused and worsened political instability on the Korean peninsula, continues to pose various types of military threat to our country even as the year is coming to an end," said Kim. In the wake of growing missile and nuclear threats from Pyongyang this year, Seoul, Tokyo and Washington ramped up defence co-operation and also activated a system for sharing real-time data on missile launches by North Korea. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea rejects idea of reunification with South Korea, plans to launch spy satellites in 2024

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

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

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

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

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

In the Far East where tensions ran high this year North Korea's Relentless missile tests continued as South Korea and Japan got closer. The United States meanwhile increased its presence in the region with more drills and Military posturing in the Korean Waters. Let's take a look.

WION Rewind 2023: Tensions rose high across the Korean peninsula

The new Cheonan warship of South Korea, named after the vessel torpedoed by North Korea in 2010, has embarked on a significant mission, marked by heightened combat readiness. The sinking of the original Cheonan, resulting in the deaths of 46 sailors, remains a politically sensitive issue in South Korea, where skepticism about North Korea's involvement persists.

<h2>Symbolic support from President Yoon Suk Yeol</h2>

President Yoon Suk Yeol, known for his hawkish stance, has publicly expressed support for the victims of the Cheonan incident. Wearing a T-shirt and hat featuring the ship, President Yoon has symbolically stood by the memory of the torpedoed warship.

The new Cheonan, a 2,800-tonne frigate, signifies a considerable advancement in anti-submarine capabilities. With a mission to protect the West Sea, the vessel is equipped with long-range anti-submarine torpedoes and tactical ship-to-ship guided missiles. These enhancements enable the warship to effectively target enemy submarines from a considerable distance and strike onshore facilities commanding such submarines.

"We will be fully prepared for battle and equipped with unbeatable combat readiness posture," the Cheonan's chief said, according to the statement.

"If the enemy provokes in the West Sea, we will respond immediately and strongly until the end," the chief added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/wion-business-wrap-chinas-rare-earths-industry-talks-between-japan-and-south-korea-more-672488">Also read |&nbsp;WION Business Wrap | China’s rare earth’s industry, Talks between Japan and South Korea &amp; more</a>

The deployment of the new Cheonan comes amidst escalating nuclear and military threats from North Korea. 
 
North Korea leader Kim Jong Un's recent statement regarding the possibility of a nuclear attack if provoked adds to the heightened tensions in the region. Additionally, North Korea's recent testing of the Hwasong-18 intercontinental ballistic missile and the launch of a military spy satellite have further strained inter-Korean ties.

Also watch |&nbsp;South Korea &amp; Japan rekindle economic dialogue after 8-year pause

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korea-japan-rekindle-economic-dialogue-after-8-year-pause-672402/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The launch of the military spy satellite led to the fracture of a military agreement aimed at de-escalating tensions between North and South Korea. Both sides responded by increasing security measures along the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), exacerbating the already fragile situation on the Korean Peninsula.

(With inputs from agencies)

The new Cheonan warship of South Korea, named after the vessel torpedoed by North Korea in 2010, has embarked on a significant mission, marked by heightened combat readiness.

The new Cheonan warship of South Korea, named after the vessel torpedoed by North Korea in 2010, has embarked on a significant mission, marked by heightened combat readiness. The sinking of the original Cheonan, resulting in the deaths of 46 sailors, remains a politically sensitive issue in South Korea, where skepticism about North Korea's involvement persists. Symbolic support from President Yoon Suk Yeol President Yoon Suk Yeol, known for his hawkish stance, has publicly expressed support for the victims of the Cheonan incident. Wearing a T-shirt and hat featuring the ship, President Yoon has symbolically stood by the memory of the torpedoed warship. The new Cheonan, a 2,800-tonne frigate, signifies a considerable advancement in anti-submarine capabilities. With a mission to protect the West Sea, the vessel is equipped with long-range anti-submarine torpedoes and tactical ship-to-ship guided missiles. These enhancements enable the warship to effectively target enemy submarines from a considerable distance and strike onshore facilities commanding such submarines. "We will be fully prepared for battle and equipped with unbeatable combat readiness posture," the Cheonan's chief said, according to the statement. "If the enemy provokes in the West Sea, we will respond immediately and strongly until the end," the chief added. Also read | WION Business Wrap | China’s rare earth’s industry, Talks between Japan and South Korea & more The deployment of the new Cheonan comes amidst escalating nuclear and military threats from North Korea. North Korea leader Kim Jong Un's recent statement regarding the possibility of a nuclear attack if provoked adds to the heightened tensions in the region. Additionally, North Korea's recent testing of the Hwasong-18 intercontinental ballistic missile and the launch of a military spy satellite have further strained inter-Korean ties. Also watch | South Korea & Japan rekindle economic dialogue after 8-year pause The launch of the military spy satellite led to the fracture of a military agreement aimed at de-escalating tensions between North and South Korea. Both sides responded by increasing security measures along the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), exacerbating the already fragile situation on the Korean Peninsula. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea's upgraded warship, Cheonan, begins mission amidst North Korean tensions

A North Korean nuclear reactor at the country's Yongbyon complex appears to be operating for the very first time, said the UN nuclear watchdog and independent experts on Thursday (Dec 21).

This indicates an additional potential source of plutonium for nuclear weapons.

North Korea for years has been using spent fuel from a 5-megawatt nuclear reactor at Yongbyon to produce plutonium for its nuclear arsenal but a telltale discharge of warm water from a larger light-water reactor suggests it is coming online, too, said the International Atomic Energy Agency in a statement.

"The discharge of warm water is indicative the reactor has reached criticality," IAEA chief Rafael Grossi said in a statement, meaning the nuclear chain reaction in the reactor is self-sustaining.

The IAEA lost access to North Korea since Pyongyang expelled its inspectors in the year 2009. The agency now observes the country mainly using satellite imagery.

Grossi further added that without the access, it was difficult for the IAEA to confirm the operational status of the reactor.

The IAEA in a statement said that it had recorded a strong outflow of water from the light-water reactor's cooling system since October, suggesting ongoing commissioning of the reactor.&nbsp;

Grossi further elucidating on the current status, said that there were recent indications pointing out that the water was warm.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-court-refuses-to-drop-sedition-charges-against-pro-democracy-tycoon-jimmy-lai-672547">Hong Kong court refuses to drop sedition charges against pro-democracy tycoon Jimmy Lai</a>

"The LWR, like any nuclear reactor, can produce plutonium in its irradiated fuel, which can be separated during reprocessing, so this is a cause for concern," he said, adding that the advancement of North Korea's nuclear program was "deeply regrettable".

<h2>Surge in Plutonium</h2>

The researchers at the James Martain Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS) in California also concluded that the reactor was most likely operating, adding that it may be "a significant source of nuclear material" for the nuclear weapons program, which is banned by United Nations Security Council resolutions.&nbsp;

In the report that came out in the month of April, the DC-based Institute for Science and International Security estimated the light-water reactor "could allow a surge in plutonium quantities at an estimated rate of about 20 kilograms of plutonium per year, a rate of four to five times larger than that of the small adjacent reactor".

The study suggested that North Korea may have anywhere from 31 to 96 nuclear warheads, depending on the types of devices being built and which fuel is being used.

(With inputs from agencies)

A North Korean nuclear reactor at the country's Yongbyon complex appears to be operating for the very first time, said the UN nuclear watchdog and independent experts on Thursday (Dec 21).

A North Korean nuclear reactor at the country's Yongbyon complex appears to be operating for the very first time, said the UN nuclear watchdog and independent experts on Thursday (Dec 21). This indicates an additional potential source of plutonium for nuclear weapons. North Korea for years has been using spent fuel from a 5-megawatt nuclear reactor at Yongbyon to produce plutonium for its nuclear arsenal but a telltale discharge of warm water from a larger light-water reactor suggests it is coming online, too, said the International Atomic Energy Agency in a statement. "The discharge of warm water is indicative the reactor has reached criticality," IAEA chief Rafael Grossi said in a statement, meaning the nuclear chain reaction in the reactor is self-sustaining. The IAEA lost access to North Korea since Pyongyang expelled its inspectors in the year 2009. The agency now observes the country mainly using satellite imagery. Grossi further added that without the access, it was difficult for the IAEA to confirm the operational status of the reactor. The IAEA in a statement said that it had recorded a strong outflow of water from the light-water reactor's cooling system since October, suggesting ongoing commissioning of the reactor. Grossi further elucidating on the current status, said that there were recent indications pointing out that the water was warm. Also read: Hong Kong court refuses to drop sedition charges against pro-democracy tycoon Jimmy Lai "The LWR, like any nuclear reactor, can produce plutonium in its irradiated fuel, which can be separated during reprocessing, so this is a cause for concern," he said, adding that the advancement of North Korea's nuclear program was "deeply regrettable". Surge in Plutonium The researchers at the James Martain Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS) in California also concluded that the reactor was most likely operating, adding that it may be "a significant source of nuclear material" for the nuclear weapons program, which is banned by United Nations Security Council resolutions. In the report that came out in the month of April, the DC-based Institute for Science and International Security estimated the light-water reactor "could allow a surge in plutonium quantities at an estimated rate of about 20 kilograms of plutonium per year, a rate of four to five times larger than that of the small adjacent reactor". The study suggested that North Korea may have anywhere from 31 to 96 nuclear warheads, depending on the types of devices being built and which fuel is being used. (With inputs from agencies)

Second North Korean nuclear reactor appears to be operating, says IAEA

On Thursday, the International Atomic Energy Agency's General Conference approved a resolution that gives the State of Palestine more participation rights and benefits. With 91 votes in favor, 5 against, and 21 abstentions, the motion was approved.

North Korea may have 31-96 Nuclear warheads; nuclear watchdog IAEA expresses concerns

North Korea launched a long-range ballistic missile into the sea off Japan's west coast on February 18 after warning of a strong response to upcoming military drills by South Korea and the United States. A day later, North Korea confirmed it was an ICBM, tested in a "surprising launch" drill aimed at confirming the weapons' reliability, its state media reported. Watch this video to find out why is North Korea developing solid-fuel missiles.

What are solid-fuel missiles, and why is North Korea developing them?

After overseeing the third test of his nation's most advanced missile, which is intended to target the U.S. mainland, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un warned "more offensive actions" to counter what he called growing military threats from the United States, state media said on Tuesday.

Japan, US, South Korea share real-time data on North Korea's missiles | World News | WION

North Korea: Kim Jong-Un sees Hwasong-18 missile launch, images released a day after test firing

North Korea launches missile to warn US? Kim and daughter watch long-range missile test

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Monday (Dec 18) that North Korea's latest missile launches violated resolutions of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and were a threat to peace and stability.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Monday (Dec 18) that North Korea's latest missile launches violated resolutions of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and were a threat to peace and stability. The launches are "not only a clear violation of UN Security Council resolutions but also a threat to peace and stability of the region and we strongly condemn" them, Kishida told a gathering of South-East Asian leaders in Tokyo, the news agency AFP reported. On Monday, North Korea launched a long-range ballistic missile with the potential capability of striking the United States, South Korea's capital Seoul and Japan's capital Tokyo. This firing followed the test of a shorter-range missile on Sunday night. Missile launches pose a threat to Pyongyang's neighbours: US Apart from Japan, the US also condemned North Korea's latest missile launches. Speaking to AFP, a State Department spokesperson said, "These launches, like the other ballistic missile launches Pyongyang has conducted this year, are in violation of multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions." The spokesperson added that the launches posed a threat to Pyongyang's neighbours and undermined regional security. On Monday, the South Korean military said that it detected the launch of a long-range ballistic missile from the Pyongyang area on Monday that flew 1,000 kilometres before splashing down in the East Sea. According to the Japanese defence ministry, the missile was an ICBM-class missile with a potential range covering all of the United States. "The ICBM-class ballistic missile launched this time, if calculated based on the trajectory, depending on weight of warhead, could have a flying range of over 15,000 kilometres (9,320 miles)," said Shingo Miyake, parliamentary vice-minister of defence. In 2023, North Korea fired four ICBMs, with the last launch in July. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea's missile launches a threat to peace and stability: Japanese PM Kishida

It looks like NATO is very interested in extending its strategic influence, all the way to Asia. The major player in this Asian NATO, if you will, is Japan. Over the weekend, North Korea conducted back-to-back missile tests, capable of hitting the United States of America. Amid threats from China, North Korea and Russia, NATO members have sought to forge closer ties with its Asian allies.

Gravitas: China, N. Korea bonhomie worries NATO | North Atlantic-Pacific Treaty Organisation soon?

North Korea launched a ballistic projectile on Sunday (Dec 17), a statement by Seoul's army read, after the United States and South Korea warned any nuclear attack by Pyongyang would lead to the end of its regime.

"Our military detected a suspected short-range ballistic missile launched from the Pyongyang area towards the East Sea at around 22:38 today," Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said, referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan.

It further added that the military had amplified its alert stance and was "closely sharing information regarding North Korea's ballistic missile with the United States and Japan".

Japan's defence ministry also stated North Korea launched "what appears to be a ballistic missile", with its coastguard adding that it seemed to have already fallen.

Kyodo News, citing unnamed Japanese government sources, said it was a short-range missile and had fallen outside Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-weighs-options-to-retaliate-against-houthi-attacks-in-red-sea-report-670514">US weighs options to retaliate against Houthi attacks in Red Sea: Report</a>

<h2>US, South Korea warn North Korea&nbsp;</h2>

The United States and South Korea issued a warning to North Korea that any kind of nuclear attack against Seoul and Washington "is unacceptable and will result in the end of the (Kim Jong) Un regime”.&nbsp;

"The US side reiterated that any nuclear attack by the DPRK against the ROK will be met with a swift, overwhelming, and decisive response," read the statement.

Both allies held their second session of the Nuclear Consultative Group in Washington on Friday (Dec 15), where they discussed nuclear deterrence in the event of conflict with the North.

Earlier on Sunday (Dec 17), a spokesperson for the North's defence ministry slammed the US and South Korea's plans to expand a key annual joint military drill next year to include a nuclear operation drill and warned of "a preemptive and deadly counteraction".

"This is an open declaration on nuclear confrontation to make the use of nuclear weapons against the DPRK a fait accompli," the statement carried by the KCNA news agency said, using the official acronym for North Korea.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea launched a ballistic projectile on Sunday (Dec 17), a statement by Seoul's army read, after the United States and South Korea warned any nuclear attack by Pyongyang would lead to the end of its regime.

North Korea launched a ballistic projectile on Sunday (Dec 17), a statement by Seoul's army read, after the United States and South Korea warned any nuclear attack by Pyongyang would lead to the end of its regime. "Our military detected a suspected short-range ballistic missile launched from the Pyongyang area towards the East Sea at around 22:38 today," Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said, referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan. It further added that the military had amplified its alert stance and was "closely sharing information regarding North Korea's ballistic missile with the United States and Japan". Japan's defence ministry also stated North Korea launched "what appears to be a ballistic missile", with its coastguard adding that it seemed to have already fallen. Kyodo News, citing unnamed Japanese government sources, said it was a short-range missile and had fallen outside Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone. Also read: US weighs options to retaliate against Houthi attacks in Red Sea: Report US, South Korea warn North Korea The United States and South Korea issued a warning to North Korea that any kind of nuclear attack against Seoul and Washington "is unacceptable and will result in the end of the (Kim Jong) Un regime”. "The US side reiterated that any nuclear attack by the DPRK against the ROK will be met with a swift, overwhelming, and decisive response," read the statement. Both allies held their second session of the Nuclear Consultative Group in Washington on Friday (Dec 15), where they discussed nuclear deterrence in the event of conflict with the North. Earlier on Sunday (Dec 17), a spokesperson for the North's defence ministry slammed the US and South Korea's plans to expand a key annual joint military drill next year to include a nuclear operation drill and warned of "a preemptive and deadly counteraction". "This is an open declaration on nuclear confrontation to make the use of nuclear weapons against the DPRK a fait accompli," the statement carried by the KCNA news agency said, using the official acronym for North Korea. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea has fired ballistic projectile, says South Korea

North Korea fired what appeared to be a long-range ballistic missile on Monday, South Korea and Japan said, its second missile launch in less than 12 hours as Pyongyang condemned a U.S.led show of force against the nuclear armed state.

North Korea fires long-range ballistic missile | US warns against nuclear attacks

The US, Japan and South Korea have ramped up security cooperation with a system for real-time sharing of north Korean ballistic missile warning data. The system will become operational in the next few days. It comes in the backdrop of growing nuclear and missile threats from north Korea.

North Korea condemns US for raising tensions

North Korea fires ballistic missile, Japan PM Fuio Kishida says 'We strongly condemn these actions'

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Israeli forces battling Hamas said they had uncovered an unusually large concrete and iron-girded tunnel, designed to carry carloads of militant fighters from Gaza right up to the border.

Israel uncovers 'biggest Hamas tunnel' near Gaza| N.Korea's ballistic missile

North Korea fires ballistic missile, informs Seoul and shares information with US

US, S. Korea to share missile warning data, North Korea slams the decision

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