North Korea has officially unveiled its latest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Hwasong-20, which according to KCNA, has the capability to strike the mainland United States. This new missile marks a significant advancement in North Korea’s military capabilities and escalates tensions in the region.


North Korea unveils Hwasong-20, its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile

Kim Jong Un is likely to show off new weapons systems at a parade in Pyongyang, with Chinese and Russian guests of honor, in their latest display of solidarity.


North Korea: Delegations from Russia, China, Vietnam join the parade 

This week, Kim Jong Un has extended a warm welcome to foreign dignitaries, preparing to showcase North Korea's latest military advancements during the 80th anniversary of the Workers' Party of Korea. Despite the secretive nature of the regime, reports suggest that the celebrations will feature a grand parade, potentially held at night, in Pyongyang. This display will likely involve tens of thousands of people, with highly coordinated performances—a hallmark of North Korean spectacles.&nbsp;The Workers’ Party, the country's sole ruling party, blends the ideology of communism with the cult of personality surrounding the Kim dynasty, which has maintained its tight grip on power for three generations. Military analysts are particularly focused on what new weaponry might be unveiled at the event. Speculation points toward the unveiling of advanced weapons systems, including the Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) and the Hwasong-11 Ma hypersonic glide vehicle. These technologies would represent significant advancements in North Korea’s military capabilities.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-approves-first-phase-of-trump-s-gaza-plan-for-ceasefire-hostage-release-but-these-questions-remain-unanswered-1760056421325">Israel approves first phase of Trump’s Gaza plan for ceasefire, hostage release but THESE questions remain unanswered</a>&nbsp;Kim's anniversary celebrations follow a significant diplomatic move last month, when he visited China for a large military parade. There, he strengthened ties with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, solidifying alliances with Beijing and Moscow. These countries have become key partners in North Korea’s growing missile and nuclear ambitions, with Russia also receiving military aid from Pyongyang.&nbsp;Chinese and Russian officials have already arrived in Pyongyang for the event, underscoring the importance of the growing political and military relationships between these countries. Recent images show Kim meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, and Vietnam's Communist Party chief, To Lam, at a cultural event. In terms of the military display, observers expect the introduction of new advanced weaponry, including short-range ballistic missiles and potentially unmanned systems or AI-powered technologies. North Korea's past parades have been opportunities to showcase innovations designed to threaten the US and its allies, and this one could be no different.&nbsp;Kim’s focus on solid-fuel missiles, such as the Hwasong-20, reflects North Korea's push to develop more reliable and mobile missile systems. This would allow for quicker deployment and launch, a strategic advantage over previous liquid-fueled missiles. While the Hwasong-20 has not been fully tested, there is anticipation that the North may attempt a live launch during or around the anniversary celebrations.&nbsp;Kim’s nuclear program, though condemned worldwide, has propelled North Korea to the top of the global sanctions list. However, Pyongyang continues to press forward with expanding its missile capabilities and constructing a secret missile base near China’s border, raising concerns about the potential threats it poses to East Asia and the US. As usual, North Korea maintains a shroud of secrecy around its military developments, especially when such high-profile events take place, ensuring that much of what is unveiled remains a closely guarded surprise.

North Korea plans massive military parade as Kim Jong Un celebrates Workers’ Party 80th anniversary

This week, Kim Jong Un has extended a warm welcome to foreign dignitaries, preparing to showcase North Korea's latest military advancements during the 80th anniversary of the Workers' Party of Korea. Despite the secretive nature of the regime, reports suggest that the celebrations will feature a grand parade, potentially held at night, in Pyongyang. This display will likely involve tens of thousands of people, with highly coordinated performances—a hallmark of North Korean spectacles. The Workers’ Party, the country's sole ruling party, blends the ideology of communism with the cult of personality surrounding the Kim dynasty, which has maintained its tight grip on power for three generations. Military analysts are particularly focused on what new weaponry might be unveiled at the event. Speculation points toward the unveiling of advanced weapons systems, including the Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) and the Hwasong-11 Ma hypersonic glide vehicle. These technologies would represent significant advancements in North Korea’s military capabilities. Also Read: Israel approves first phase of Trump’s Gaza plan for ceasefire, hostage release but THESE questions remain unanswered Kim's anniversary celebrations follow a significant diplomatic move last month, when he visited China for a large military parade. There, he strengthened ties with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, solidifying alliances with Beijing and Moscow. These countries have become key partners in North Korea’s growing missile and nuclear ambitions, with Russia also receiving military aid from Pyongyang. Chinese and Russian officials have already arrived in Pyongyang for the event, underscoring the importance of the growing political and military relationships between these countries. Recent images show Kim meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, and Vietnam's Communist Party chief, To Lam, at a cultural event. In terms of the military display, observers expect the introduction of new advanced weaponry, including short-range ballistic missiles and potentially unmanned systems or AI-powered technologies. North Korea's past parades have been opportunities to showcase innovations designed to threaten the US and its allies, and this one could be no different. Kim’s focus on solid-fuel missiles, such as the Hwasong-20, reflects North Korea's push to develop more reliable and mobile missile systems. This would allow for quicker deployment and launch, a strategic advantage over previous liquid-fueled missiles. While the Hwasong-20 has not been fully tested, there is anticipation that the North may attempt a live launch during or around the anniversary celebrations. Kim’s nuclear program, though condemned worldwide, has propelled North Korea to the top of the global sanctions list. However, Pyongyang continues to press forward with expanding its missile capabilities and constructing a secret missile base near China’s border, raising concerns about the potential threats it poses to East Asia and the US. As usual, North Korea maintains a shroud of secrecy around its military developments, especially when such high-profile events take place, ensuring that much of what is unveiled remains a closely guarded surprise.

Kim Jong Un is set to host foreign dignitaries for North Korea's 80th Workers' Party anniversary, with a major military parade and new weapons likely to be showcased

North Korea has revealed the Hwasong-11Ma, a new hypersonic missile system, at its annual arms exhibition in Pyongyang. Mounted on a 10-wheeled transporter-erector-launcher capable of carrying two missiles, the Hwasong-11Ma uses a boost-glide vehicle in place of a traditional warhead. While its design is based on the Hwasong-11 series, doubts remain over the actual capability of North Korea’s hypersonic weapons program.

North Korea Unveils NEW Hypersonic Missile! 

North Korea’s leader Kim Jong-un warns South Korea that no area is safe, claiming the North can strike anywhere using advanced weapons, including hypersonic missiles, escalating regional tensions.


North Korea’s Kim Jong-Un Says No South Korean Territory Is Safe From Hypersonic Missiles

North Korea’s Kim Jong-un says no South Korean territory is safe

#Gravitas South Korea has strengthened its skies with tougher defences. The United States has positioned a cutting-edge air defence system on South Korean soil, nicknamed America’s version of the Israeli Iron Dome. 

South Korea Strengthens Skies With US ‘Iron Dome’

North Korea Conducts Final Ground Test of ICBM, South Korea Cautions US

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has overseen a test of a new rocket engine designed for intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) that he described as marking a “significant change in expanding and strengthening” the country’s strategic nuclear forces.


North Korea Conducts Final Ground Test of ICBM, South Korea Cautions US 

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung reveals that North Korea is almost ready to deploy an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capable of delivering a nuclear weapon to the United States. Though re-entry technology remains a challenge, it could be resolved soon. Lee urges diplomatic talks to reduce nuclear threats amid rising tensions in the region.

South Korea sounds alarm as North Korea nears completion of nuclear-capable ICBM

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said if the US accepts reality, then there will be no reason to avoid dialogue. As Washington has been insisting that the former give up on nuclear weapons. North Korean state news agency KCNA reported on Monday (September 22). In his speech at the Supreme People's Assembly, Kim reminisced on his fond memories of US President Donald Trump. During Trump’s first presidency, the two leaders had had three engagements.

North Korea’s Kim Jong Un Says Open To US Talks If Denuclearisation Demands Dropped

North Korea: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reportedly banned words such as “ice cream,” “hamburger” and “karaoke” for being “too Western.” In a push to promote local culture and values, the regime has introduced its own alternative terms to replace these expressions.


North Korea: Kim Jong Un Orders Ban on Words ‘Hamburgers,’ ‘Ice Cream’ to Promote Local Terms

North Korea is known for its bizarre rules and regulations thanks to its leader, Kim Jong Un. From hairstyle to vehicle possession to the education system, the country has been subject to numerous unusual rules. This time, Kim Jong Un has launched another crackdown, but on the words his people will use while talking. The leader has banned the words - ice cream, hamburger, and karaoke. The reason? The words are too "Western", according to the North Korean leader. So what will North Koreans do when they have to use these words while talking? Kim Jong Un has given his own terminology for these words.&nbsp;Daily NK reported that tour guides in the country are advised not to use English words that are widely used in the West or its not-so-favorite neighbour, South Korea. It was also reported that an official advisory was issued saying that &nbsp;tour guides are being strictly trained to adopt the North Korean terminology.&nbsp;Here are the North Korean words for some English words that have been banned by Kim Jong Un:&nbsp;1. Hamburger - dahin-gogi gyeopppang (Which means double bread with ground beef).2. Ice cream - eseukimo.&nbsp;Around 20 to 30 guides have been appointed for an intense training programme by the Workers’ Party of Korea’s Cadre Department in Kangwon province.&nbsp;“Trainees must say dajin-gogi gyeopppang (double bread with ground beef) for hamburger and eseukimo (Eskimo) for ice cream. And karaoke machines, widespread in South Korea, should be called “on-screen accompaniment machines," the Daily NK reported, citing the official order.&nbsp;Kim Jong Un will not stop there. The appointed trainers will also have to take an exam to complete the training.&nbsp;Recently, North Korea has been in the headlines for its intense crackdown against the West. As per a recent report, the country is now reportedly using death penalties for people watching or sharing foreign films and TV dramas.

Daily NK reported that tour guides in the country are advised not to use English words that are widely used in the West or its not-so-favorite neighbour, South Korea. 

North Korea is known for its bizarre rules and regulations thanks to its leader, Kim Jong Un. From hairstyle to vehicle possession to the education system, the country has been subject to numerous unusual rules. This time, Kim Jong Un has launched another crackdown, but on the words his people will use while talking. The leader has banned the words - ice cream, hamburger, and karaoke. The reason? The words are too "Western", according to the North Korean leader. So what will North Koreans do when they have to use these words while talking? Kim Jong Un has given his own terminology for these words. Daily NK reported that tour guides in the country are advised not to use English words that are widely used in the West or its not-so-favorite neighbour, South Korea. It was also reported that an official advisory was issued saying that tour guides are being strictly trained to adopt the North Korean terminology. Here are the North Korean words for some English words that have been banned by Kim Jong Un: 1. Hamburger - dahin-gogi gyeopppang (Which means double bread with ground beef). 2. Ice cream - eseukimo. Around 20 to 30 guides have been appointed for an intense training programme by the Workers’ Party of Korea’s Cadre Department in Kangwon province. “Trainees must say dajin-gogi gyeopppang (double bread with ground beef) for hamburger and eseukimo (Eskimo) for ice cream. And karaoke machines, widespread in South Korea, should be called “on-screen accompaniment machines," the Daily NK reported, citing the official order. Kim Jong Un will not stop there. The appointed trainers will also have to take an exam to complete the training. Recently, North Korea has been in the headlines for its intense crackdown against the West. As per a recent report, the country is now reportedly using death penalties for people watching or sharing foreign films and TV dramas.

Daily NK reported that tour guides in the country are advised not to use English words that are widely used in the West or its not-so-favorite neighbour, South Korea.&nbsp;

North Korea: Kim Jong Un’s new and bizarre ruling is here. DON’T use words like 'Hamburgers', 'Ice-Cream'. Details inside

As per a report by World Atlas, here's a look at the top five countries with largest armies in world. This list includes the likes of India, China, and United States. 

Here's a look at the top five countries with largest armies in world. This list includes the likes of India, China, and United States.&nbsp;

From North Korea to United States, 5 countries with largest active armies in world, check where India stands

Kim Ju Ae, the teenage daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has made her first international debut in Beijing.
From being revealed by Dennis Rodman in 2013 to standing beside her father at military parades and diplomatic events, her growing visibility has fueled speculation she could be the next leader of North Korea.
Here’s a timeline of her rise.

Seoul: Kim solidifying daughter's status as 'likely' successor 

Kim Ju Ae, the teenage daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has made her first international debut in Beijing.

From being revealed by Dennis Rodman in 2013 to standing beside her father at military parades and diplomatic events, her growing visibility has fueled speculation she could be the next leader of North Korea.
Here’s a timeline of her rise.

South Korea's Spy Agency Claims Kim Jong-un Preparing His Daughter For The Top Job

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the successful test of a new solid-fuel rocket engine for intercontinental ballistic missiles, hailing it as a “significant change” for the country’s strategic nuclear force. The engine, capable of producing nearly 2,000 kilonewtons of thrust, marks the final ground test before full deployment of what analysts say could target the U.S. mainland.


North Korea's Kim Jong Un Oversees ICBM Engine Test

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the successful test of a new solid-fuel rocket engine for intercontinental ballistic missiles, hailing it as a “significant change” for the country’s strategic nuclear force. The engine, capable of producing nearly 2,000 kilonewtons of thrust, marks the final ground test before full deployment of what analysts say could target the U.S. mainland.

North Korea's new ICBM engine marks “major shift,” says Kim

In early 2019, a team of Navy SEALs slipped into North Korea on a high-stakes mission to plant a device capable of intercepting Kim Jong-un’s communications during tense nuclear talks with President Trump. Watch this report for more details!


How a top secret SEAL Team 6 mission into North Korea fell apart 

After his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s aides carried out an unusually thorough clean-up operation, drawing international attention. Footage shared on social media showed staff members quickly moving in once the talks finished. They removed the glass Kim had drunk from, wiped down the chair’s upholstery and armrests, and meticulously cleaned the table and other surfaces he had touched. The scene resembled a forensic sweep, with aides ensuring that no physical trace of the leader was left behind.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/chatgpt-faces-fresh-global-outage-users-flock-to-social-media-with-complaints-1756894113103">ChatGPT faces fresh global outage, users flock to social media with complaints</a>&nbsp;Russian journalist Alexander Yunashev, who witnessed the process, described the clean-up as “remarkable” in its detail. Reports said the two leaders had wrapped up their formal discussions and later continued in a more relaxed setting over tea. The reasoning behind such a rigorous effort remains unclear. Analysts suggest it could be aimed at eliminating any chance of foreign agencies collecting Kim’s DNA or biological samples. Others see it as part of Pyongyang’s broader security culture, which places extraordinary emphasis on protecting the leader’s health and cultivating his image of invulnerability.<h2>Watch the video here:</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The staff accompanying the North Korean leader meticulously erased all traces of Kim&#39;s presence. They took the glass he drank from, wiped down the chair&#39;s upholstery, and cleaned the parts of the furniture the Korean leader had touched. <a href="https://t.co/JOXVxg04Ym">pic.twitter.com/JOXVxg04Ym</a>&mdash; Russian Market (@runews) <a href="https://twitter.com/runews/status/1963149343759683951?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Earlier in the day, a meeting took place at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse following a grand military parade in central Beijing, where President Xi Jinping led commemorations in Tiananmen Square to mark 80 years since the end of World War II and Japan’s surrender. The parade, featuring thousands of troops and heavy weaponry, was attended by several global leaders—though Western participation was notably absent, underscoring the geopolitical undertone of the event.According to the Kremlin, Putin and Kim arrived for the talks together in the same car after a formal reception. Images from North Korean state media also showed Kim accompanied by his daughter, Kim Ju Ae.

North Korean staff scrub Kim’s chair and glass post-Putin meet: Was it done to leave no trace of Kim Jong Un?

After his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s aides carried out an unusually thorough clean-up operation, drawing international attention. Footage shared on social media showed staff members quickly moving in once the talks finished. They removed the glass Kim had drunk from, wiped down the chair’s upholstery and armrests, and meticulously cleaned the table and other surfaces he had touched. The scene resembled a forensic sweep, with aides ensuring that no physical trace of the leader was left behind. Also Read: ChatGPT faces fresh global outage, users flock to social media with complaints Russian journalist Alexander Yunashev, who witnessed the process, described the clean-up as “remarkable” in its detail. Reports said the two leaders had wrapped up their formal discussions and later continued in a more relaxed setting over tea. The reasoning behind such a rigorous effort remains unclear. Analysts suggest it could be aimed at eliminating any chance of foreign agencies collecting Kim’s DNA or biological samples. Others see it as part of Pyongyang’s broader security culture, which places extraordinary emphasis on protecting the leader’s health and cultivating his image of invulnerability. Watch the video here:

Clips which have gone viral on social media platforms showed Kim Jong Un’s aides scrubbing his meeting spot with Putin in Beijing, erasing all traces to prevent DNA collection

China’s Victory Parade: China showcased its military strength in a grand Victory Parade, highlighting advanced weaponry, disciplined troops, and national pride. The display underlined China’s growing defense capabilities

Chinese Victory-day parade: China set to showcase next-gen weapons 

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un traveled to China in his signature bulletproof train to attend a high-profile military parade. Watch to know more on this!


Kim Jong-Un travels in bulletproof train to China for military parade

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited a newly inaugurated missile production line featuring advanced automation systems, as he prepares for a rare diplomatic trip to China. The inspection, aimed at accelerating mass missile production, underscores Pyongyang’s push for military readiness. It comes just before Kim attends a major military parade in Beijing with Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin, signaling a strengthening of strategic ties.

N Korea's new missile factory undergoes Kim Jong Un's inspection, ahead of China visit

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised the test launch of two “new” air defense missiles on Sunday (August 24, 2025), following Pyongyang’s accusations that Seoul is escalating border tensions, according to state media.


North Korea Launches Two ‘New’ Air Defense Missiles

North Korean state TV aired rare emotional footage of Kim Jong Un presiding over a solemn ceremony for soldiers killed while fighting for Russia — reportedly in the Ukraine war.
Broadcast on August 22, the visuals show Kim bowing, laying flowers, and embracing children of fallen troops. The ceremony praised the "victorious conclusion" of overseas operations, raising questions over North Korea’s direct involvement in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

North Korea: Kim in tears, hugs soldiers back from Russia-Ukraine war

A new report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) has revealed a secret North Korean missile base near the Chinese border. Known as the Sinpung-dong facility, it allegedly houses 6 to 9 nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and could pose a serious threat to East Asia and the continental United States. 

Pyongyang's secret military base: N Korea undeclared ballistic missiles

South Korea has conducted its first nationwide civil defense drill in six years, signaling renewed urgency in the face of North Korea's escalating missile threats. The 20-minute simulation, based on an air raid scenario, instructed citizens across the country to evacuate to designated shelters — including subway stations and underground spaces.

South Korea holds first nationwide air raid drill in 6 years amid rising North Korea threat 

North Korea’s Kim Jong Un vows to speed up nuclear arsenal expansion in response to U.S.-South Korea joint military drills. Calling the exercises a provocation, Kim warns of increased tensions as Pyongyang strengthens its deterrence.


North Korea: Kim Jong Un kick-starts nuclear pedal | 'US-S Korea drill has nuclear element'

Hackers Expose North Korean Spy’s Data in Unprecedented Leak 

South Korea’s active-duty military has dropped by 20% in the last six years and now stands at about 450,000 troops. The reason behind the decline of the army is the unavailability of young men for the country’s compulsory military service, according to a defence ministry report. One of the major problems for the decline is South Korea's low birth rate (the lowest in the world), and the shortage is making it harder to recruit soldiers and threatening operational readiness..The report, shared with Democratic Party lawmaker Choo Mi-ae, shows that the active military had around 563,000 troops in 2019, which is down from roughly 690,000 in the early 2000s. The number of 20-year-old men, the usual age for enlistment in the army, has fallen sharply, dropping 30% between 2019 and 2025 to about 230,000.&nbsp;In comparison with North Korea, it is believed that North Korea have an army of about 1.2 million active-duty soldiers.&nbsp;South Korea is considered one of the fastest ageing populations in the world and has the lowest birth rate ratio (only 0.75 babies expected per woman in 2024). According to the government data, the population, which reached 51.8 million in 2020, is projected to fall to 36.2 million by 2072.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-fake-starving-children-netanyahu-slams-gaza-famine-claims-introduces-three-step-plan-to-improve-aid-distribution-1754839172593">‘Fake starving children’: Netanyahu slams Gaza famine claims; introduces three-step plan to improve aid distribution</a>The country's armed forces have cited better technology, strong ties with the United States (US), and a growing defence industry (major arms exporter) are the main reasons for shortening service periods. Back in 1953, when the Korean War ended in an armistice, able-bodied men served for 36 months.&nbsp;The defence budget of South Korea in 2025 is over 61 trillion (£33bn), which is bigger than North Korea’s entire estimated economy. However, the armed forces in South Korea are still short by 50,000 troops, according to the report by the defence ministry.&nbsp;

The defence budget of South Korea in 2025 is over 61 trillion (£33bn), which is bigger than the North Korea’s entire estimated economy. 

South Korea’s active-duty military has dropped by 20% in the last six years and now stands at about 450,000 troops. The reason behind the decline of the army is the unavailability of young men for the country’s compulsory military service, according to a defence ministry report. One of the major problems for the decline is South Korea's low birth rate (the lowest in the world), and the shortage is making it harder to recruit soldiers and threatening operational readiness.. The report, shared with Democratic Party lawmaker Choo Mi-ae, shows that the active military had around 563,000 troops in 2019, which is down from roughly 690,000 in the early 2000s. The number of 20-year-old men, the usual age for enlistment in the army, has fallen sharply, dropping 30% between 2019 and 2025 to about 230,000. In comparison with North Korea, it is believed that North Korea have an army of about 1.2 million active-duty soldiers. South Korea is considered one of the fastest ageing populations in the world and has the lowest birth rate ratio (only 0.75 babies expected per woman in 2024). According to the government data, the population, which reached 51.8 million in 2020, is projected to fall to 36.2 million by 2072. Also Read: ‘Fake starving children’: Netanyahu slams Gaza famine claims; introduces three-step plan to improve aid distribution The country's armed forces have cited better technology, strong ties with the United States (US), and a growing defence industry (major arms exporter) are the main reasons for shortening service periods. Back in 1953, when the Korean War ended in an armistice, able-bodied men served for 36 months. The defence budget of South Korea in 2025 is over 61 trillion (£33bn), which is bigger than North Korea’s entire estimated economy. However, the armed forces in South Korea are still short by 50,000 troops, according to the report by the defence ministry.

The defence budget of South Korea in 2025 is over 61 trillion (£33bn), which is bigger than the North Korea’s entire estimated economy.&nbsp;

South Korea’s military shrinks by 20% in six years due to drops in male population

A North Korean defector who swam across the maritime border off the western coast of the Korean peninsula on the night of July 30 had been taken into custody by South Korea. Authorities in Seoul reported this development on August 7. The man reportedly tied himself to plastic foam for buoyancy. According to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, he was rescued in a 10-hour-long operation and taken into custody at 4 am on July 31.The border is known as the northern limit line and has occasionally served as a route for North Korean defectors swimming to South Korea's Ganghwa Island. According to the local media report, he was waving for help and expressed his desire to defect.Direct sea crossing remains one of the most dangerous ways to defect, as the maritime border is heavily fortified. This is also the reason why it remains so rare. In 2021, &nbsp;a case featured a swimmer using diving gear, paddled for hours without getting noticed. &nbsp;President Lee Jae Myung has shifted towards a more diplomatic approach. This includes suspending loudspeaker propaganda and halting balloon-based leaflet campaigns.&nbsp;Ganghwa Island is located in the Northwest of Seoul and is one of the closest South Korean territories. It is to be noted that North Korea has not responded to any of these defection claims. Previously, there were cases when North Korean fishermen strayed to the other side of the border, and South Korea was able to repatriate them. For example, in July 2025, six North Koreans who were rescued at sea earlier and requested to return home, not stay in the South, were sent back, Seoul's unification ministry said.On rare occasions, for example, in 1997, after Hwang Jang-yop defected, Kim Jong-un reportedly responded via the state media, calling them cowards for running away from the red revolution.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

South Korean authorities have claimed that they have rescued a North Korean man who was attempting to cross to the other side of the Korean Peninsula, tying Styrofoam across his body.

A North Korean defector who swam across the maritime border off the western coast of the Korean peninsula on the night of July 30 had been taken into custody by South Korea. Authorities in Seoul reported this development on August 7. The man reportedly tied himself to plastic foam for buoyancy. According to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, he was rescued in a 10-hour-long operation and taken into custody at 4 am on July 31. The border is known as the northern limit line and has occasionally served as a route for North Korean defectors swimming to South Korea's Ganghwa Island. According to the local media report, he was waving for help and expressed his desire to defect. Direct sea crossing remains one of the most dangerous ways to defect, as the maritime border is heavily fortified. This is also the reason why it remains so rare. In 2021, a case featured a swimmer using diving gear, paddled for hours without getting noticed. President Lee Jae Myung has shifted towards a more diplomatic approach. This includes suspending loudspeaker propaganda and halting balloon-based leaflet campaigns. Ganghwa Island is located in the Northwest of Seoul and is one of the closest South Korean territories. It is to be noted that North Korea has not responded to any of these defection claims. Previously, there were cases when North Korean fishermen strayed to the other side of the border, and South Korea was able to repatriate them. For example, in July 2025, six North Koreans who were rescued at sea earlier and requested to return home, not stay in the South, were sent back, Seoul's unification ministry said. On rare occasions, for example, in 1997, after Hwang Jang-yop defected, Kim Jong-un reportedly responded via the state media, calling them cowards for running away from the red revolution.

South Korean authorities have claimed that they have rescued a North Korean man who was attempting to cross to the other side of the Korean Peninsula, tying Styrofoam across his body. The man reportedly requested to defect.

North Korean defector swims across maritime border with foam tied to his body, rescued by South Korea

Kim Jong-un, the North Korean supreme leader, on Sunday (Jul 27), vowed that his nation would achieve victory in "anti-imperialist, anti-US" battles. Kim made this statement as Pyongyang marked the 72nd anniversary of the armistice of the Korean War. State media reports suggest that the North Korean leader insisted that "our state and its people would surely achieve the great cause of building a rich country with a strong army and become honourable victors in the anti-imperialist, anti-US showdown".<h2>Kim Jong-un pays respects to Kim II-sung and Chinese People's volunteers</h2>On Saturday, Kim Jong-un visited the Friendship Tower in Pyongyang, where he laid a wreath. There he pledged that North Korea would "never forget the militant feats and merits of the fallen fighters of the Chinese People's Volunteers", reported the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).According to a Yonhap news agency report citing Lim Eul-chul, a professor at Kyungnam University's Institute for Far Eastern Studies, "By keeping mentions of its friendly relationship with China to a minimum, North Korea is sending a message that it can maintain its system and sovereignty on its own, and wants to show its diplomatic and military autonomy without provoking China".He also paid his respects by laying a basket of flowers before the statue of North Korea's founder Kim II-sung, he praised the "victory of the outstanding military ideology, Juche-oriented war methods and superb strategy and tactics" of the nation's founder.While he said that the nation and its people would build a country with a "strong army and become honourable victors in the anti-imperialist, anti-US showdown," he did not make any hostile remarks towards the United States or South Korea.<h2>What was the armistice of the Korean War?</h2>Signed on July 27, 1953, the Korean War armistice brought an end to the three-year Korean War. U.S. generals signed the agreement representing the United Nations forces that backed South Korea. Since 1996, North Korea has celebrated the day as "Victory Day" and claims that it won the Liberation war against what it called US-led aggression.&nbsp;

Kim Jong-un, the North Korean supreme leader said that the nation and its people would build a country with a “strong army and become honourable victors in the anti-imperialist, anti-US showdown”.

Kim Jong-un, the North Korean supreme leader, on Sunday (Jul 27), vowed that his nation would achieve victory in "anti-imperialist, anti-US" battles. Kim made this statement as Pyongyang marked the 72nd anniversary of the armistice of the Korean War. State media reports suggest that the North Korean leader insisted that "our state and its people would surely achieve the great cause of building a rich country with a strong army and become honourable victors in the anti-imperialist, anti-US showdown". Kim Jong-un pays respects to Kim II-sung and Chinese People's volunteers On Saturday, Kim Jong-un visited the Friendship Tower in Pyongyang, where he laid a wreath. There he pledged that North Korea would "never forget the militant feats and merits of the fallen fighters of the Chinese People's Volunteers", reported the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). According to a Yonhap news agency report citing Lim Eul-chul, a professor at Kyungnam University's Institute for Far Eastern Studies, "By keeping mentions of its friendly relationship with China to a minimum, North Korea is sending a message that it can maintain its system and sovereignty on its own, and wants to show its diplomatic and military autonomy without provoking China". He also paid his respects by laying a basket of flowers before the statue of North Korea's founder Kim II-sung, he praised the "victory of the outstanding military ideology, Juche-oriented war methods and superb strategy and tactics" of the nation's founder. While he said that the nation and its people would build a country with a "strong army and become honourable victors in the anti-imperialist, anti-US showdown," he did not make any hostile remarks towards the United States or South Korea. What was the armistice of the Korean War? Signed on July 27, 1953, the Korean War armistice brought an end to the three-year Korean War. U.S. generals signed the agreement representing the United Nations forces that backed South Korea. Since 1996, North Korea has celebrated the day as "Victory Day" and claims that it won the Liberation war against what it called US-led aggression.