North Korea has reportedly turned down an offer of three million doses of Chinese vaccine from UNICEF.

The UN body&nbsp;had volunteered to give China's Sinovac vaccine to Kim Jong-Un's regime but North Korean authorities reportedly said it should be given to other countries who have been hard with the virus.

North Korea was one of the first countries to seal its border with China last January amid reports of coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan. The UN agency said it will now redirect the vaccines meant for North Korea to other nations.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iaea-north-korea-seems-to-have-restarted-nuclear-reactor-409572/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom had said earlier that 5 billion vaccines have now been administered globally, however, low-income countries including Africa had received very little does with just 2 per cent adults fully vaccinated compared to nearly 50 per cent in rich nations.

The WHO head had called for a "moratorium" on booster shots asserting that millions had not got their first dose in several countries. Adhanom had also urged nations to end export restrictions and other trade barriers&nbsp;in order to facilitate the free flow of vaccines.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-develops-pcr-equipment-for-virus-tests-report-407756">Also Read:&nbsp;North Korea develops PCR equipment for virus tests</a>

Last month there were reports of disinfection work in various areas in North Korea's capital Pyongyang. Kim's regime has insisted that the country has not been hit by the virus even as he had cited a "tense" food situation.

North Korea has been hit by crop damage after the country was hit by heavy rain last month as Kim instructed troops and emergency services to ensure there was&nbsp;no shortage of food grains as North Korea's state-run news agency said the authorities had taken "countermeasures".

(With reports from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

North Korea has reportedly turned down an offer of three million doses of Chinese vaccine from UNICEF. The UN body had volunteered to give China's Sinovac vaccine to Kim Jong-Un's regime but North Korean authorities reportedly said it should be given to other countries who have been hard with the virus.

North Korea has reportedly turned down an offer of three million doses of Chinese vaccine from UNICEF. The UN body had volunteered to give China's Sinovac vaccine to Kim Jong-Un's regime but North Korean authorities reportedly said it should be given to other countries who have been hard with the virus. North Korea was one of the first countries to seal its border with China last January amid reports of coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan. The UN agency said it will now redirect the vaccines meant for North Korea to other nations. Watch: WHO chief Tedros Adhanom had said earlier that 5 billion vaccines have now been administered globally, however, low-income countries including Africa had received very little does with just 2 per cent adults fully vaccinated compared to nearly 50 per cent in rich nations. The WHO head had called for a "moratorium" on booster shots asserting that millions had not got their first dose in several countries. Adhanom had also urged nations to end export restrictions and other trade barriers in order to facilitate the free flow of vaccines. Also Read: North Korea develops PCR equipment for virus tests Last month there were reports of disinfection work in various areas in North Korea's capital Pyongyang. Kim's regime has insisted that the country has not been hit by the virus even as he had cited a "tense" food situation. North Korea has been hit by crop damage after the country was hit by heavy rain last month as Kim instructed troops and emergency services to ensure there was no shortage of food grains as North Korea's state-run news agency said the authorities had taken "countermeasures". (With reports from Agencies)

North Korea turned down vaccine offer, says UN body

The UN atomic agency has said that North Korea appears to have restarted its plutonium-producing reprocessing reactor, a possible sign that Pyongyang is expanding its banned weapons program.

IAEA: North Korea seems to have restarted nuclear reactor

Nuclear-armed North Korea appears to have restarted its plutonium-producing reprocessing reactor in a "deeply troubling" development, the UN atomic agency has said, a possible sign Pyongyang is expanding its banned weapons programme.

The development on the 5-megawatt reactor in Yongbyon, North Korea's main nuclear complex, comes with nuclear talks between Pyongyang and Washington at a standstill.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un offered to dismantle part of the Yongbyon complex at a second summit with then US president Donald Trump but not other sites, in exchange for sanctions relief, and his offer was rejected.

North Korea is under multiple sets of international sanctions over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes, which have seen rapid progress under Kim.

"Since early July, there have been indications, including the discharge of cooling water, consistent with the operation of the reactor," the International Atomic Energy Agency said in its annual report.

The Yongbyon reactor appeared to have been inactive from December 2018 until then, added the report dated Friday.

IAEA inspectors were kicked out of North Korea in 2009, and the agency has since monitored it from outside.

The possible operation of the reactor follows a recent indication that Pyongyang is also using a nearby radiochemical laboratory to separate plutonium from spent fuel previously removed from the reactor.

The signs of the reactor and laboratory operations were "deeply troubling", the IAEA said, adding the activities were a "clear violation" of UN resolutions.

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A senior US State Department official said Washington was aware of the report and was closely coordinating with partner countries.

"This report underscores the urgent need for dialogue and diplomacy so we can achieve the complete denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula," the official told AFP.&nbsp;

"We continue to seek dialogue with the DPRK so we can address this reported activity and the full range of issues related to denuclearisation."

US North Korea envoy Sung Kim last week re-iterated his willingness to meet his North Korean counterparts "anywhere, at any time".

Nuclear arsenal

The Biden administration has previously promised a "practical, calibrated approach", including diplomatic efforts, to persuade the impoverished North to give up its banned weapons programmes.

But Pyongyang has never shown any indication it would be willing to surrender its nuclear arsenal, and this month Kim's sister and key adviser Kim Yo Jong demanded the withdrawal of US troops from the peninsula.&nbsp;

Pyongyang has stayed away from nuclear talks since the collapse of the second Trump-Kim summit in Hanoi and has rebuffed South Korean efforts to revive dialogue.

About 100 kilometres&nbsp;north of Pyongyang, Yongbyon is home to the country's first nuclear reactor, and is the only known source of plutonium for North Korea's weapons programme.

Yongbyon is not believed to be North Korea's only uranium enrichment facility and closing it down would not in and of itself signal an end to the country's atomic programme.

North Korea suspended nuclear and missile testing during a diplomatic process in 2018 but said it was abandoning its self-declared moratorium in January 2020.

It has subsequently carried out a series of short-range missile launches but has not conducted a nuclear test since 2017.

Nuclear-armed North Korea appears to have restarted its plutonium-producing reprocessing reactor in a "deeply troubling" development, the UN atomic agency has said, a possible sign Pyongyang is expanding its banned weapons programme.

Nuclear-armed North Korea appears to have restarted its plutonium-producing reprocessing reactor in a "deeply troubling" development, the UN atomic agency has said, a possible sign Pyongyang is expanding its banned weapons programme. The development on the 5-megawatt reactor in Yongbyon, North Korea's main nuclear complex, comes with nuclear talks between Pyongyang and Washington at a standstill. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un offered to dismantle part of the Yongbyon complex at a second summit with then US president Donald Trump but not other sites, in exchange for sanctions relief, and his offer was rejected. North Korea is under multiple sets of international sanctions over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes, which have seen rapid progress under Kim. "Since early July, there have been indications, including the discharge of cooling water, consistent with the operation of the reactor," the International Atomic Energy Agency said in its annual report. The Yongbyon reactor appeared to have been inactive from December 2018 until then, added the report dated Friday. IAEA inspectors were kicked out of North Korea in 2009, and the agency has since monitored it from outside. The possible operation of the reactor follows a recent indication that Pyongyang is also using a nearby radiochemical laboratory to separate plutonium from spent fuel previously removed from the reactor. The signs of the reactor and laboratory operations were "deeply troubling", the IAEA said, adding the activities were a "clear violation" of UN resolutions. Also read | US conducts drone strike on explosive-laden car in Kabul A senior US State Department official said Washington was aware of the report and was closely coordinating with partner countries. "This report underscores the urgent need for dialogue and diplomacy so we can achieve the complete denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula," the official told AFP. "We continue to seek dialogue with the DPRK so we can address this reported activity and the full range of issues related to denuclearisation." US North Korea envoy Sung Kim last week re-iterated his willingness to meet his North Korean counterparts "anywhere, at any time". Nuclear arsenal The Biden administration has previously promised a "practical, calibrated approach", including diplomatic efforts, to persuade the impoverished North to give up its banned weapons programmes. But Pyongyang has never shown any indication it would be willing to surrender its nuclear arsenal, and this month Kim's sister and key adviser Kim Yo Jong demanded the withdrawal of US troops from the peninsula. Pyongyang has stayed away from nuclear talks since the collapse of the second Trump-Kim summit in Hanoi and has rebuffed South Korean efforts to revive dialogue. About 100 kilometres north of Pyongyang, Yongbyon is home to the country's first nuclear reactor, and is the only known source of plutonium for North Korea's weapons programme. Yongbyon is not believed to be North Korea's only uranium enrichment facility and closing it down would not in and of itself signal an end to the country's atomic programme. North Korea suspended nuclear and missile testing during a diplomatic process in 2018 but said it was abandoning its self-declared moratorium in January 2020. It has subsequently carried out a series of short-range missile launches but has not conducted a nuclear test since 2017.

North Korea appears to have restarted nuclear reactor: UN agency

North Korea appears to have restarted a nuclear reactor that is widely believed to have produced plutonium for nuclear weapons.

North Korea restarts nuclear activity

The US&nbsp;special envoy for North Korea was due to meet his South Korean counterpart on Monday, as the two allies look for ways to entice Pyongyang back to talks over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes. 
 
Sung Kim arrived in Seoul on Saturday for a four-day visit. He met with Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong at the minister's residence on Sunday, where they discussed ways for a speedy resumption of the peace process on the Korean peninsula, a foreign ministry official said. 
 
On Monday Kim will meet with his South Korean counterpart, Noh Kyu-duk, and on Tuesday with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov in Seoul. 
 
The visit comes as a brief thaw in inter-Korean relations in July gave way to a new standoff over US-South Korean military exercises that North Korea has warned could trigger a security crisis. 
 
The nine-day exercise began on August&nbsp;16, with silence so far from North Korean state media despite fears that the country could conduct a missile test or take other actions to underscore its disapproval. 
 
North Korea has said it is open to diplomacy, but that the American overtures appear hollow while "hostile acts" such as the drills continue. 
 
US&nbsp;President Joe Biden's administration has said it will explore diplomacy to achieve North Korean denuclearisation, but shown no willingness to ease sanctions.

The US special envoy for North Korea was due to meet his South Korean counterpart on Monday, as the two allies look for ways to entice Pyongyang back to talks over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes.

The US special envoy for North Korea was due to meet his South Korean counterpart on Monday, as the two allies look for ways to entice Pyongyang back to talks over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes. Sung Kim arrived in Seoul on Saturday for a four-day visit. He met with Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong at the minister's residence on Sunday, where they discussed ways for a speedy resumption of the peace process on the Korean peninsula, a foreign ministry official said. On Monday Kim will meet with his South Korean counterpart, Noh Kyu-duk, and on Tuesday with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov in Seoul. The visit comes as a brief thaw in inter-Korean relations in July gave way to a new standoff over US-South Korean military exercises that North Korea has warned could trigger a security crisis. The nine-day exercise began on August 16, with silence so far from North Korean state media despite fears that the country could conduct a missile test or take other actions to underscore its disapproval. North Korea has said it is open to diplomacy, but that the American overtures appear hollow while "hostile acts" such as the drills continue. US President Joe Biden's administration has said it will explore diplomacy to achieve North Korean denuclearisation, but shown no willingness to ease sanctions.

US, South Korea envoys discuss jumpstarting talks with North Korea

According to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-warns-of-security-crisis-over-us-seoul-drills-404535">North Korea's </a>state media, the authorities have developed their own Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) equipment to conduct coronavirus tests.

The state-run newspaper said technicians at the State Academy of Sciences have developed the PCR system.

North Korea hasn't reported the exact number of coronavirus infections since the pandemic began even though it sealed its borders and clampdown on travel.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-nations-north-korea-facing-harsh-lean-period-396447/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

KCNA news agency said that the country has ramped up its battle against the virus with the Delta and Lambda variants spreading rapidly worldwide.

There is also very little information on the country's vaccination campaign as the World Health Organization(WHO) had said Burundi, Eritrea and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-chides-officials-for-unspecified-pandemic-lapse-394795">North Korea</a> are the only remaining member states yet to start their vaccination campaigns.

North Korea was one of the first countries to close its border as the virus emerged in China with borders sealed in January 2020. Video footage released by KCNA this month had shown health workers carrying out disinfection work in various areas, including stores in Pyongyang to prevent the spread of the virus.

The state media had reported some months ago that Kim Jong Un had sacked several senior officials over&nbsp;a "crucial" coronavirus incident.

Kim had earlier claimed that there was not a single case of the "evil virus".

The North Korean leader Kim had earlier stated that due to "difficulties and hardship caused by the world health crisis prolonged lockdown are no less harsh for us than those in the wartime situation."

According to North Korea's state media, the authorities have developed their own Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) equipment to conduct coronavirus tests. The state-run newspaper said technicians at the State Academy of Sciences have developed the PCR system.

According to North Korea's state media, the authorities have developed their own Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) equipment to conduct coronavirus tests. The state-run newspaper said technicians at the State Academy of Sciences have developed the PCR system. North Korea hasn't reported the exact number of coronavirus infections since the pandemic began even though it sealed its borders and clampdown on travel. Watch: KCNA news agency said that the country has ramped up its battle against the virus with the Delta and Lambda variants spreading rapidly worldwide. There is also very little information on the country's vaccination campaign as the World Health Organization(WHO) had said Burundi, Eritrea and North Korea are the only remaining member states yet to start their vaccination campaigns. North Korea was one of the first countries to close its border as the virus emerged in China with borders sealed in January 2020. Video footage released by KCNA this month had shown health workers carrying out disinfection work in various areas, including stores in Pyongyang to prevent the spread of the virus. The state media had reported some months ago that Kim Jong Un had sacked several senior officials over a "crucial" coronavirus incident. Kim had earlier claimed that there was not a single case of the "evil virus". The North Korean leader Kim had earlier stated that due to "difficulties and hardship caused by the world health crisis prolonged lockdown are no less harsh for us than those in the wartime situation."

North Korea develops PCR equipment for virus tests: Report

The North Korean state television aired recorded footage of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Tuesday (August 10), which is almost two days after the Games were concluded.&nbsp;

As per the local media reports, Korean Central Television (KCTV) aired 70 minutes of a women's football group stage match between the United Kingdom and Chile, which was played on July 21.&nbsp;

It is still not clear how the footage was obtained, but the reports have mentioned that the video was without any commentary and the quality was also poor.&nbsp;

Another match between China and Brazil was also expected to air, but there is no information available yet.&nbsp;

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However, for North Korea, it is not unusual for such delays in the coverage of the Olympics or other international sports. Most of the time, the events are delayed by weeks and sometimes even by years.&nbsp;

During the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, the state-run media covered the games four days after the opening ceremony.&nbsp;

It is imperative to note that North Korea did not send any delegation to the Tokyo Games citing the threat posed by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. A website for the nation's Ministry of Sport had mentioned that North Korea would not compete to protect its athletes "from the global public health crisis."&nbsp;

This happened for the first time in 33 years, as previously North Korea skipped the Summer Olympics in 1988. Although, as a nation, the athletes have performed well at Olympics, winning 57 medals including 16 golds.&nbsp;

The Tokyo Olympics 2020 concluded on August 8 as one of the "most challenging" Games in history owing to not one, but multiple uncertainties the multi-sport event faced, such as the Covid pandemic, brutal temperatures, etc.&nbsp;

The North Korean state television aired recorded footage of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Tuesday (August 10), which is almost two days after the Games were concluded.

The North Korean state television aired recorded footage of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Tuesday (August 10), which is almost two days after the Games were concluded. As per the local media reports, Korean Central Television (KCTV) aired 70 minutes of a women's football group stage match between the United Kingdom and Chile, which was played on July 21. It is still not clear how the footage was obtained, but the reports have mentioned that the video was without any commentary and the quality was also poor. Another match between China and Brazil was also expected to air, but there is no information available yet. ALSO READ | British Olympic silver medallist CJ Ujah suspended for alleged doping However, for North Korea, it is not unusual for such delays in the coverage of the Olympics or other international sports. Most of the time, the events are delayed by weeks and sometimes even by years. During the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, the state-run media covered the games four days after the opening ceremony. It is imperative to note that North Korea did not send any delegation to the Tokyo Games citing the threat posed by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. A website for the nation's Ministry of Sport had mentioned that North Korea would not compete to protect its athletes "from the global public health crisis." This happened for the first time in 33 years, as previously North Korea skipped the Summer Olympics in 1988. Although, as a nation, the athletes have performed well at Olympics, winning 57 medals including 16 golds. The Tokyo Olympics 2020 concluded on August 8 as one of the "most challenging" Games in history owing to not one, but multiple uncertainties the multi-sport event faced, such as the Covid pandemic, brutal temperatures, etc.

Out of touch: North Korea's state TV airs Tokyo Olympics match days after closing ceremony

As the United States and South Korean military prepare their joint military drills, North Korea's Kim Yo Jong, the sister of Kim Jong Un said the US and South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;"will face a more serious security threat by ignoring our repeated warnings to push ahead with the dangerous war exercises."

"The drills are an unwelcome, self-destructive action," North Korea's state-run KCNA news agency quoted Jong as saying.

Kim Yo Jong described the military drills as "treacherous" asserting that North Korea considers it rehearsals for invasion.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-koreas-art-troupe-marks-anniversary-of-korean-war-armistice-401205/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"I take this opportunity to express my strong regret for the treacherous treatment of the South Korean authorities," the powerful sister of Kim Jong Un said.

US and South Korean military will begin their preliminary training today as they carry out full military exercises next week

However, US Department of Defense spokesman Martin Meiners asserted that the drills were a "mutual agreement". The US has several thousand troops stationed in South Korea since the 1950-1953 Korean War which is still under armistice without a permanent peace deal.

Kim Yo Jong said North Korea will strive for "practical deterrence" while stating that it was imperative for the country to "build-up power to strongly contain external threats".

Although both North and South Koren leaders had met in Singapore in 2018 during Trump's presidency but the second summit between the former US president and Kim collapsed in Hanoi as the denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula continued to remain questionable.

North Korea has largely cut off ties with its neighbours while beefing up its arsenal as Kim demanded that peace would only be possible in the Korean peninsula if the US dismantled its military force across the border.

Kim Yo Jong said North Korea will maintain "absolute deterrence" "strong pre-emptive strike capability" due to the US military threat.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As the United States and South Korean military prepare their joint military drills, North Korea's Kim Yo Jong, the sister of Kim Jong Un said the US and South Korea "will face a more serious security threat by ignoring our repeated warnings to push ahead with the dangerous war exercises.

As the United States and South Korean military prepare their joint military drills, North Korea's Kim Yo Jong, the sister of Kim Jong Un said the US and South Korea "will face a more serious security threat by ignoring our repeated warnings to push ahead with the dangerous war exercises." "The drills are an unwelcome, self-destructive action," North Korea's state-run KCNA news agency quoted Jong as saying. Kim Yo Jong described the military drills as "treacherous" asserting that North Korea considers it rehearsals for invasion. Watch: "I take this opportunity to express my strong regret for the treacherous treatment of the South Korean authorities," the powerful sister of Kim Jong Un said. US and South Korean military will begin their preliminary training today as they carry out full military exercises next week However, US Department of Defense spokesman Martin Meiners asserted that the drills were a "mutual agreement". The US has several thousand troops stationed in South Korea since the 1950-1953 Korean War which is still under armistice without a permanent peace deal. Kim Yo Jong said North Korea will strive for "practical deterrence" while stating that it was imperative for the country to "build-up power to strongly contain external threats". Although both North and South Koren leaders had met in Singapore in 2018 during Trump's presidency but the second summit between the former US president and Kim collapsed in Hanoi as the denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula continued to remain questionable. North Korea has largely cut off ties with its neighbours while beefing up its arsenal as Kim demanded that peace would only be possible in the Korean peninsula if the US dismantled its military force across the border. Kim Yo Jong said North Korea will maintain "absolute deterrence" "strong pre-emptive strike capability" due to the US military threat. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Self-destructive action': North Korea warns US, South Korea over military drills

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered the military to carry out relief work in flood-hit areas, as the country sinks into food and economic crisis.

Local state media reported that more than 1,000 homes had been damaged and nearly 5,000 people have been evacuated till now due to the floods.

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Experts of North Korea believe an early monsoon season arrived in the country last month which resulted in heightened torrential rains.

Agricultural land was damaged in the country, which has raised fears of the country facing a “tense” food situation, Kim Jong Un had warned last month.

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Considering the impending crisis, the Worker’s Party of Korea’s Central Military Commission held a meeting to assess the situation. While Kim Jong Un, reportedly, did not attend the meeting, his aides conveyed his message that the leader wanted the military to start a relief campaign as soon as possible.

Kim, reportedly, called for “awakening and arousing” the party officials and other authorities to immediately start the relief campaign “skilfully”.

The military will also help rebuild and restore the disaster-hit areas, minimise crop disasters and help people avoid the spread of coronavirus.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered the military to carry out relief work in flood-hit areas, as the country sinks into food and economic crisis. Local state media reported that more than 1,000 homes had been damaged and nearly 5,000 people have been evacuated till now due to the floods.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered the military to carry out relief work in flood-hit areas, as the country sinks into food and economic crisis. Local state media reported that more than 1,000 homes had been damaged and nearly 5,000 people have been evacuated till now due to the floods. Also read | North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's bandage sparks speculations Experts of North Korea believe an early monsoon season arrived in the country last month which resulted in heightened torrential rains. Agricultural land was damaged in the country, which has raised fears of the country facing a “tense” food situation, Kim Jong Un had warned last month. Also read | Kim Jong Un's sudden weight loss sparks rumours about his health Considering the impending crisis, the Worker’s Party of Korea’s Central Military Commission held a meeting to assess the situation. While Kim Jong Un, reportedly, did not attend the meeting, his aides conveyed his message that the leader wanted the military to start a relief campaign as soon as possible. Kim, reportedly, called for “awakening and arousing” the party officials and other authorities to immediately start the relief campaign “skilfully”. The military will also help rebuild and restore the disaster-hit areas, minimise crop disasters and help people avoid the spread of coronavirus.

Kim Jong Un orders military to start relief work in flood-hit areas of North Korea

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;continued&nbsp;developing&nbsp;its&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;and ballistic&nbsp;missile&nbsp;programs&nbsp;during the first half of&nbsp;2021&nbsp;in violation of international sanctions and despite the country's worsening economic situation, according to an excerpt of a confidential United Nations&nbsp;report&nbsp;seen by Reuters on Friday.

The&nbsp;report&nbsp;by a panel of independent sanctions monitors to the&nbsp;UN Security Council&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;sanctions committee said Pyongyang "continued to seek material and technology for these programmes overseas."

"Despite the country's focus on its worsening economic travails, the Democratic People's Republic of&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;continued to maintain and develop its&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;and ballistic&nbsp;missile&nbsp;programmes," the sanctions monitors concluded.

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;is formally known as the Democratic People's Republic of&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;(DPRK).&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea's mission to the United Nations in New York did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the&nbsp;UN report.

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The isolated Asian nation imposed a strict lockdown last year amid the coronavirus pandemic that has slashed its trade and aid access, hurting an economy already burdened by international sanctions.

In June, leader Kim Jong Un said the country faced a "tense" food situation and much would depend on this year's harvests.

"Statements made by DPRK suggested a deepening humanitarian crisis in the country, although the COVID-19 blockade means that the relative impact of sanctions on the humanitarian situation has probably decreased," the&nbsp;UN monitors wrote.

"With trade all but stopped by the blockade, and last year's harvest badly affected by floods, the current prospects of the wider DPRK population are poor," they said.

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has been subjected to&nbsp;UN sanctions since 2006 over its&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;and ballistic&nbsp;missile&nbsp;programs. The Security Council has steadily strengthened sanctions in a bid to cut off funding for the&nbsp;programs.

Among the sanctions imposed are a ban on the export of coal and other commodities and the import of oil.

"Maritime exports from DPRK of coal and other sanctioned commodities continued, but at a much reduced level. The import of oil products&nbsp;reported to the panel fell substantially in the first half of the year," according to the&nbsp;UN&nbsp;report.

Pyongyang also continued to access international financial institutions and&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korean workers continued to earn money overseas for use in state programmes, said the&nbsp;UN sanctions monitors, adding: "Officials overseas continued to feel pressure to develop revenue streams."

The monitors said they were continuing to investigate&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea's involvement in global cyber activity and collaboration by&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korean academics and universities with scientific institutes abroad, "focusing on studies with potential applications in WMD (weapons of mass destruction) programmes."

The&nbsp;UN&nbsp;sanctions monitors have previously&nbsp;reported that&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has stolen hundreds of millions of dollars using cyberattacks.

North Korea continued developing its nuclear and ballistic missile programs during the first half of 2021 in violation of international sanctions and despite the country's worsening economic situation, according to an excerpt of a confidential United Nations report seen by Reuters on Friday.

North Korea continued developing its nuclear and ballistic missile programs during the first half of 2021 in violation of international sanctions and despite the country's worsening economic situation, according to an excerpt of a confidential United Nations report seen by Reuters on Friday. The report by a panel of independent sanctions monitors to the UN Security Council North Korea sanctions committee said Pyongyang "continued to seek material and technology for these programmes overseas." "Despite the country's focus on its worsening economic travails, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea continued to maintain and develop its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes," the sanctions monitors concluded. North Korea is formally known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). North Korea's mission to the United Nations in New York did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the UN report. Also read | US State Department announces five additions to global terrorist list The isolated Asian nation imposed a strict lockdown last year amid the coronavirus pandemic that has slashed its trade and aid access, hurting an economy already burdened by international sanctions. In June, leader Kim Jong Un said the country faced a "tense" food situation and much would depend on this year's harvests. "Statements made by DPRK suggested a deepening humanitarian crisis in the country, although the COVID-19 blockade means that the relative impact of sanctions on the humanitarian situation has probably decreased," the UN monitors wrote. "With trade all but stopped by the blockade, and last year's harvest badly affected by floods, the current prospects of the wider DPRK population are poor," they said. North Korea has been subjected to UN sanctions since 2006 over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. The Security Council has steadily strengthened sanctions in a bid to cut off funding for the programs. Among the sanctions imposed are a ban on the export of coal and other commodities and the import of oil. "Maritime exports from DPRK of coal and other sanctioned commodities continued, but at a much reduced level. The import of oil products reported to the panel fell substantially in the first half of the year," according to the UN report. Pyongyang also continued to access international financial institutions and North Korean workers continued to earn money overseas for use in state programmes, said the UN sanctions monitors, adding: "Officials overseas continued to feel pressure to develop revenue streams." The monitors said they were continuing to investigate North Korea's involvement in global cyber activity and collaboration by North Korean academics and universities with scientific institutes abroad, "focusing on studies with potential applications in WMD (weapons of mass destruction) programmes." The UN sanctions monitors have previously reported that North Korea has stolen hundreds of millions of dollars using cyberattacks.

North Korea developing nuclear, missile programs in 2021- UN Report

During various public events last month, the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was spotted with a bandage at the back of his head.&nbsp;

As per an NK News site, Kim Jong Un appeared at events of the Korean People’s Army from July 24 to July 27.&nbsp;

Also, he was seen in footage of a war veterans conference and related programmes from July 27 to July 29.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-facing-its-worst-ever-situation-admits-kim-jong-un-375885">Also read |&nbsp;North Korea facing its 'worst-ever situation', admits Kim Jong Un</a>

At the above events, he was spotted with a bandage which is about the size of a few postage stamps and in some a dark greenish spot. The news site said, "The cause or nature of the large, dark green spot or bruise on the rear right side of his head, which was covered with a bandage in some footage, is still unknown and is difficult to diagnose using only images".

The Yonhap News Agency recently reported that South Korea’s National Intelligence Service believes there have been no unusual signs regarding Kim Jong Un’s health.&nbsp;

The agency cited lawmakers briefed by the spy agency, which added the patch was removed after a few days and there was no scar.

During various public events last month, the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was spotted with a bandage at the back of his head. As per an NK News site, Kim Jong Un appeared at events of the Korean People’s Army from July 24 to July 27.

During various public events last month, the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was spotted with a bandage at the back of his head. As per an NK News site, Kim Jong Un appeared at events of the Korean People’s Army from July 24 to July 27. Also, he was seen in footage of a war veterans conference and related programmes from July 27 to July 29. Also read | North Korea facing its 'worst-ever situation', admits Kim Jong Un At the above events, he was spotted with a bandage which is about the size of a few postage stamps and in some a dark greenish spot. The news site said, "The cause or nature of the large, dark green spot or bruise on the rear right side of his head, which was covered with a bandage in some footage, is still unknown and is difficult to diagnose using only images". The Yonhap News Agency recently reported that South Korea’s National Intelligence Service believes there have been no unusual signs regarding Kim Jong Un’s health. The agency cited lawmakers briefed by the spy agency, which added the patch was removed after a few days and there was no scar.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's bandage sparks speculations

North Korea is ready to resume denuclearisation talks, but in exchange, it wants the U.S. to lift sanctions on luxury goods like fine alcohol and suits. Did someone say priorities?

Gravitas: Report: North Korea ready to resume denuclearisation talks

North Korea wants a raft of international sanctions eased – including on imports of luxury items such as high-class liquors and suits – before it will restart denuclearisation talks with the United States.

North Korea says ready to hold talks on denuclearization in exchange of lifting of sanctions

South Korea said on Monday no decision has yet been made on its joint military exercises with the United States but they should not create tension, after North Korea warned the South against holding the exercises amid signs of a thaw in relations. 
 
South Korea and the United States regularly stage military exercises, mainly in the spring and summer, which North Korea routinely denounces as rehearsals for war. 
 
Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and a senior official of the ruling Workers' Party, warned Seoul on Sunday that holding the drills would undercut efforts to rebuild relations. 
 
Her warning came days after the two Koreas restored hotlines Pyongyang severed a year ago and South Korean officials said Kim and South Korean President Moon Jae-in were seeking to repair strained ties and resume summits. 
 
South Korea's defence ministry said Seoul and Washington were in talks over the drills but no decision had yet been made. 
 
"We have nothing to comment on her statement, but regarding the exercises, the timing and method have not been finalised," ministry spokesman Boo Seung-chan told a briefing. 
 
He said the allies would make a decision after considering COVID-19, joint defence posture, planned transfer of wartime operational control, and the issue of "supporting diplomatic efforts for establishing lasting peace on the Korean peninsula." 
 
Lee Jong-joo, spokeswoman of Seoul's Unification Ministry, which handles inter-Korean affairs, said the exercises should not be a "source of military tension in any case", without elaborating. 
 
The Pentagon also declined to comment on Kim Yo Jong's statement. It said it did not comment on "planned or conducted training readiness" but "combined training events" were a bilateral decision "and any decisions will be a mutual agreement." 
 
A US&nbsp;State Department spokesperson reiterated that Washington "supports inter-Korean dialogue and engagement, and welcomes the recent developments related to inter-Korean communication," adding that "diplomacy and dialogue are essential to achieving the complete denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula." 
 
At the same time, US&nbsp;State Department spokesman Ned Price told a news briefing Secretary of State Antony Blinken planned to call on Southeast Asian counterparts in a meeting this week to fully implement sanctions on North Korea. 
 
A US&nbsp;official briefing reporters ahead of a series of virtual regional meetings this week, said North Korea's foreign minister was expected to attend one, the ASEAN Regional Forum, but Blinken, who would also take part, had no plan to engage with him on any particular issue. 
 
US-South Korea exercises have been scaled back in recent years to facilitate talks between North Korea and the administration of former US&nbsp;President Donald Trump aimed at dismantling Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programmes in return for US&nbsp;sanctions relief. 
 
But the negotiations stalled following a failed second Trump-Kim summit in 2019. 
 
The pandemic has affected the drills, with the allies focusing on computerised simulations and minimising live field training without mobilising US-based troops. 
 
A high-level Unification Ministry official said on Friday the exercises should be postponed to help restart talks, but Lee declined to comment when asked if the ministry plans to make a formal recommendation. 
 
Lee said Seoul last week proposed setting up a video conference system to expedite inter-Korean dialogue and approved plans by two civilian relief groups to send humanitarian aid to North Korea.

South Korea said on Monday no decision has yet been made on its joint military exercises with the United States but they should not create tension, after North Korea warned the South against holding the exercises amid signs of a thaw in relations.

South Korea said on Monday no decision has yet been made on its joint military exercises with the United States but they should not create tension, after North Korea warned the South against holding the exercises amid signs of a thaw in relations. South Korea and the United States regularly stage military exercises, mainly in the spring and summer, which North Korea routinely denounces as rehearsals for war. Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and a senior official of the ruling Workers' Party, warned Seoul on Sunday that holding the drills would undercut efforts to rebuild relations. Her warning came days after the two Koreas restored hotlines Pyongyang severed a year ago and South Korean officials said Kim and South Korean President Moon Jae-in were seeking to repair strained ties and resume summits. South Korea's defence ministry said Seoul and Washington were in talks over the drills but no decision had yet been made. "We have nothing to comment on her statement, but regarding the exercises, the timing and method have not been finalised," ministry spokesman Boo Seung-chan told a briefing. He said the allies would make a decision after considering COVID-19, joint defence posture, planned transfer of wartime operational control, and the issue of "supporting diplomatic efforts for establishing lasting peace on the Korean peninsula." Lee Jong-joo, spokeswoman of Seoul's Unification Ministry, which handles inter-Korean affairs, said the exercises should not be a "source of military tension in any case", without elaborating. The Pentagon also declined to comment on Kim Yo Jong's statement. It said it did not comment on "planned or conducted training readiness" but "combined training events" were a bilateral decision "and any decisions will be a mutual agreement." A US State Department spokesperson reiterated that Washington "supports inter-Korean dialogue and engagement, and welcomes the recent developments related to inter-Korean communication," adding that "diplomacy and dialogue are essential to achieving the complete denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula." At the same time, US State Department spokesman Ned Price told a news briefing Secretary of State Antony Blinken planned to call on Southeast Asian counterparts in a meeting this week to fully implement sanctions on North Korea. A US official briefing reporters ahead of a series of virtual regional meetings this week, said North Korea's foreign minister was expected to attend one, the ASEAN Regional Forum, but Blinken, who would also take part, had no plan to engage with him on any particular issue. US-South Korea exercises have been scaled back in recent years to facilitate talks between North Korea and the administration of former US President Donald Trump aimed at dismantling Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programmes in return for US sanctions relief. But the negotiations stalled following a failed second Trump-Kim summit in 2019. The pandemic has affected the drills, with the allies focusing on computerised simulations and minimising live field training without mobilising US-based troops. A high-level Unification Ministry official said on Friday the exercises should be postponed to help restart talks, but Lee declined to comment when asked if the ministry plans to make a formal recommendation. Lee said Seoul last week proposed setting up a video conference system to expedite inter-Korean dialogue and approved plans by two civilian relief groups to send humanitarian aid to North Korea.

Seoul says no decision on US drills, but exercises should not create North Korea tension

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's sister, Kim Yo Jong, has slammed the planned military drills between the US and South Korea.

The leader's sister said the planned military exercise between the US and South Korea can "becloud" relations between the two countries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/use-superior-language-not-souths-slang-kim-jong-uns-north-korea-warns-young-people-399036">Use 'superior' language, not South's slang: Kim Jong-un's North Korea warns young people</a>

"I view this as an undesirable prelude which seriously undermines the will of the top leaders,"&nbsp;Kim Yo Jong said, adding that the drill "further beclouds the way ahead of the north-south relations."

This warning from Kim Jong Un’s sister came a little after the two sides restored cross-border communication after more than a year of silence from the two sides. Kim Jong Un and South Korea’s President Moon Jae-in have been exchanging personal letters, which has helped restore communication between the two nations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/n-korean-chinese-leaders-vow-greater-cooperation-in-face-of-foreign-hostility-report-397274">N Korean, Chinese leaders vow greater cooperation in face of foreign hostility: Report</a>

Meanwhile, the US and South Korea are readying for another planned military drill. The US has stationed nearly 28,500 troops in the South to protect it against the Kim Jong Un-led nation that infamously keeps showcasing its nuclear weapons.

North Korea believes that these military exercises are preparation for an invasion.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's sister, Kim Yo Jong, has slammed the planned military drills between the US and South Korea. The leader's sister said the planned military exercise between the US and South Korea can "becloud" relations between the two countries.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's sister, Kim Yo Jong, has slammed the planned military drills between the US and South Korea. The leader's sister said the planned military exercise between the US and South Korea can "becloud" relations between the two countries. Also read | Use 'superior' language, not South's slang: Kim Jong-un's North Korea warns young people "I view this as an undesirable prelude which seriously undermines the will of the top leaders," Kim Yo Jong said, adding that the drill "further beclouds the way ahead of the north-south relations." This warning from Kim Jong Un’s sister came a little after the two sides restored cross-border communication after more than a year of silence from the two sides. Kim Jong Un and South Korea’s President Moon Jae-in have been exchanging personal letters, which has helped restore communication between the two nations. Also read | N Korean, Chinese leaders vow greater cooperation in face of foreign hostility: Report Meanwhile, the US and South Korea are readying for another planned military drill. The US has stationed nearly 28,500 troops in the South to protect it against the Kim Jong Un-led nation that infamously keeps showcasing its nuclear weapons. North Korea believes that these military exercises are preparation for an invasion.

Kim Yong Un's sister slams planned military drills between US and South Korea

The United States on Friday seized a Singapore-owned oil tanker that was used to make illegal oil deliveries to North Korea, the Justice Department said.

A New York federal judge issued a judgment of forfeiture authorising the United States to take ownership of the M/T Courageous, which is currently in Cambodia.

The ship, which has a capacity of 2,734 tons, was purchased by Singaporean national Kwek Kee Seng, who remains at large, according to a Justice Department statement.

"Kwek and his co-conspirators engaged in an extensive scheme to evade... US and UN sanctions by using vessels under there control to covertly transport fuel to North Korea," the statement said.

From August to December 2019, the Courageous would illegally stop transmitting its location information. Satellite imagery showed that during that time, the tanker engaged in ship-to-ship transfers of more than $1.5 million worth of oil to a North Korean ship.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-top-cuban-police-for-suppressing-protests-401871">Also read |&nbsp;US sanctions top Cuban police for suppressing protests</a>

The Department has accused Kwek of trying to hide the scheme by using shell companies, lying to international shipping authorities and falsely identifying the Courageous to avoid detection.

Kwek has been charged with conspiracy to evade economic sanctions on North Korea and money laundering conspiracy.

Cambodian authorities seized the tanker in March 2020 on a US warrant and have held the Courageous there since.

The US attorney's office for the southern district of New York filed a civil forfeiture action against the tanker on April 23.

Relations between Washington and Pyongyang are strained, with North Korea's foreign minister in June ruling out any talks with the United States, saying such dialogue would "get us nowhere."

Negotiations between the two countries have long been stalled over the international sanctions imposed on the nuclear-armed state and what North Korea should give up in return for their lifting.

The United States on Friday seized a Singapore-owned oil tanker that was used to make illegal oil deliveries to North Korea, the Justice Department said. A New York federal judge issued a judgment of forfeiture authorising the United States to take ownership of the M/T Courageous, which is currently in Cambodia.

The United States on Friday seized a Singapore-owned oil tanker that was used to make illegal oil deliveries to North Korea, the Justice Department said. A New York federal judge issued a judgment of forfeiture authorising the United States to take ownership of the M/T Courageous, which is currently in Cambodia. The ship, which has a capacity of 2,734 tons, was purchased by Singaporean national Kwek Kee Seng, who remains at large, according to a Justice Department statement. "Kwek and his co-conspirators engaged in an extensive scheme to evade... US and UN sanctions by using vessels under there control to covertly transport fuel to North Korea," the statement said. From August to December 2019, the Courageous would illegally stop transmitting its location information. Satellite imagery showed that during that time, the tanker engaged in ship-to-ship transfers of more than $1.5 million worth of oil to a North Korean ship. Also read | US sanctions top Cuban police for suppressing protests The Department has accused Kwek of trying to hide the scheme by using shell companies, lying to international shipping authorities and falsely identifying the Courageous to avoid detection. Kwek has been charged with conspiracy to evade economic sanctions on North Korea and money laundering conspiracy. Cambodian authorities seized the tanker in March 2020 on a US warrant and have held the Courageous there since. The US attorney's office for the southern district of New York filed a civil forfeiture action against the tanker on April 23. Relations between Washington and Pyongyang are strained, with North Korea's foreign minister in June ruling out any talks with the United States, saying such dialogue would "get us nowhere." Negotiations between the two countries have long been stalled over the international sanctions imposed on the nuclear-armed state and what North Korea should give up in return for their lifting.

US seizes tanker used to deliver oil to North Korea

According to media reports, a North Korean troupe put on a musical show to mark the 68th anniversary of the armistice agreement that halted the 1950-53 Korean War.

North Korea's art troupe marks anniversary of Korean War armistice

The leaders of North and South Korea have agreed to resume suspended communication lines and enhance ties, according to South Korea.

President Moon Jae-in and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un achieved such an agreement, according to the presidential office in Seoul, following multiple rounds of letter exchanges since April.&nbsp;

Last month marked one year since the cross-border communication lines were suspended.

On June 16 last year, the North vowed to cut off all contact links with the South and even blew up an inter-Korean liaison office in its border city of Kaesong in outrage over anti-Pyongyang propaganda pamphlets coming from the South.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Gravitas Plus: How did North Korea become the world's most isolated country?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-how-did-north-korea-become-the-worlds-most-isolated-country-375342/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In response to activist defectors who have gone to the South and often launch balloons back over the border with propaganda pamphlets, North Korea had stated it was stopping relations at the time.&nbsp;

Communications lines between the Koreas have been cut and restored during previous periods of tension.

Last month, a South Korean ministry official said that "The inter-Korean communication channel must be immediately restored without any conditions... we urge North Korea to restore the inter-Korean communication lines. The inter-Korean communication channel is the most fundamental means of communication, and the two Koreas have agreed to maintain such a channel several times, ".

The Korean conflict has lasted more than 70 years, making it one of the world's longest.

Despite the increased tensions, there was no way for the North and the South to communicate.&nbsp;

The first hotline between the two Koreas was installed at Panmunjom on September 22, 1971, 26 years after the former Soviet army shut off the telephone line between Seoul and Haeju shortly after liberation on August 26, 1945.&nbsp;

A total of 50 lines have been open since 1971, including a hotline between the two Koreas' presidents, as well as military and intelligence contact lines.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The leaders of North and South Korea have agreed to resume suspended communication lines and enhance ties, according to South Korea. President Moon Jae-in and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un achieved such an agreement, according to the presidential office in Seoul, following multiple rounds of letter exchanges since April.

The leaders of North and South Korea have agreed to resume suspended communication lines and enhance ties, according to South Korea. President Moon Jae-in and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un achieved such an agreement, according to the presidential office in Seoul, following multiple rounds of letter exchanges since April. Last month marked one year since the cross-border communication lines were suspended. On June 16 last year, the North vowed to cut off all contact links with the South and even blew up an inter-Korean liaison office in its border city of Kaesong in outrage over anti-Pyongyang propaganda pamphlets coming from the South. Watch | Gravitas Plus: How did North Korea become the world's most isolated country? In response to activist defectors who have gone to the South and often launch balloons back over the border with propaganda pamphlets, North Korea had stated it was stopping relations at the time. Communications lines between the Koreas have been cut and restored during previous periods of tension. Last month, a South Korean ministry official said that "The inter-Korean communication channel must be immediately restored without any conditions... we urge North Korea to restore the inter-Korean communication lines. The inter-Korean communication channel is the most fundamental means of communication, and the two Koreas have agreed to maintain such a channel several times, ". The Korean conflict has lasted more than 70 years, making it one of the world's longest. Despite the increased tensions, there was no way for the North and the South to communicate. The first hotline between the two Koreas was installed at Panmunjom on September 22, 1971, 26 years after the former Soviet army shut off the telephone line between Seoul and Haeju shortly after liberation on August 26, 1945. A total of 50 lines have been open since 1971, including a hotline between the two Koreas' presidents, as well as military and intelligence contact lines. (With inputs from agencies)

North and South Korea agree to restore communication channels, improve ties

Representatives from both sides spoke on the phone for three minutes, according to South Korea's Ministry of Unification.

North Korea, South Korea agree to restore communication channels

Pyongyang sweltered on Wednesday as state media issued warnings about a heatwave across&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea.

This summer the country has recorded higher-than-average temperatures that are hovering around 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) in the capital.

Residents strolling Pyongyang's main streets on Wednesday beat the heat with umbrellas and hand-held fans. Some cooled off by eating a bowl of shaved ice with sweet toppings, a traditional summer dessert.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pictures-heatwaves-strike-around-the-world-scientists-say-expect-more-156821">In pictures: Heatwaves strike around the world, scientists say expect more</a>

Despite the sizzling climate, everyone sweated it out in face masks to prevent the spread of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>.

Most homes in impoverished&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;do not have air conditioning, with data suggesting that only a quarter of the population has access to electricity.

State media has issued a series of warnings about the dangerously high temperatures over the past week.

"Officials and working people in all the fields and regions across the country have turned out in the campaign for preventing the damage from fierce heat and drought," the Rodong Sinmun newspaper said last week.

The paper added that forestry officials should be on the lookout for wildfires, and agricultural workers should watch out for pests and other heat-related crop damage.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/use-superior-language-not-souths-slang-kim-jong-uns-north-korea-warns-young-people-399036">Use 'superior' language, not South's slang: Kim Jong-un's North Korea warns young people</a>

A health official told state-run KCTV last week that&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;expected another heatwave at the end of the month.

Natural disasters tend to have a greater impact on the country due to its weak infrastructure, while deforestation has left it vulnerable to flooding.

A series of typhoons last summer triggered floods that damaged farmland and destroyed thousands of homes.

Last month,&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korean leader Kim Jong Un admitted that the country's food supply situation was "getting tense" due to the lingering typhoon damage, and called for steps to minimise the impact of natural disasters.

Pyongyang sweltered on Wednesday as state media issued warnings about a heatwave across North Korea. This summer the country has recorded higher-than-average temperatures that are hovering around 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) in the capital.

Pyongyang sweltered on Wednesday as state media issued warnings about a heatwave across North Korea. This summer the country has recorded higher-than-average temperatures that are hovering around 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) in the capital. Residents strolling Pyongyang's main streets on Wednesday beat the heat with umbrellas and hand-held fans. Some cooled off by eating a bowl of shaved ice with sweet toppings, a traditional summer dessert. Also read | In pictures: Heatwaves strike around the world, scientists say expect more Despite the sizzling climate, everyone sweated it out in face masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Most homes in impoverished North Korea do not have air conditioning, with data suggesting that only a quarter of the population has access to electricity. State media has issued a series of warnings about the dangerously high temperatures over the past week. "Officials and working people in all the fields and regions across the country have turned out in the campaign for preventing the damage from fierce heat and drought," the Rodong Sinmun newspaper said last week. The paper added that forestry officials should be on the lookout for wildfires, and agricultural workers should watch out for pests and other heat-related crop damage. Also read | Use 'superior' language, not South's slang: Kim Jong-un's North Korea warns young people A health official told state-run KCTV last week that North Korea expected another heatwave at the end of the month. Natural disasters tend to have a greater impact on the country due to its weak infrastructure, while deforestation has left it vulnerable to flooding. A series of typhoons last summer triggered floods that damaged farmland and destroyed thousands of homes. Last month, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un admitted that the country's food supply situation was "getting tense" due to the lingering typhoon damage, and called for steps to minimise the impact of natural disasters.

North Korea's capital swelters in heatwave

Following the usual 'traditional' guidelines, North Korea’s younger generation has been warned by Kim Jong-un’s officials to follow the country’s standard language, rather than using slang.

Young people have been told to adhere to North Korea’s "superior" language, based on the dialect used in the capital city, Pyongyang. The warning came after officials were led to believe that the younger generation’s language and dialect were being heavily influenced by the South.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/n-korean-chinese-leaders-vow-greater-cooperation-in-face-of-foreign-hostility-report-397274">N Korean, Chinese leaders vow greater cooperation in face of foreign hostility: Report</a>

The warning was published in an editorial piece published on Sunday in the official newspaper of the ruling Workers’ party. "The ideological and cultural penetration under the colourful signboard of the bourgeoisie is even more dangerous than enemies who are taking guns," the piece read, according to South Korea’s Yonhap news agency.

It, reportedly, talked about young people trying to adapt to the less superior cultural values of several things such as hairstyles, language, spoken word, dialect, and much more.

Among the banned words, "oppa” is one of the main slang. It originally was used to address ‘older brother’ but is lately being used as slang to refer to spouse or boyfriend in South Korea.

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Kim Jong-un's government believes if the young people start mimicking South Korea’s traditions and culture, they are diminishing all the revolutionary and ideological advances that have taken place in the country in the past years.

"When the new generations have a sound sense of ideology and revolutionary spirits, the future of a country is bright. If not, decades-long social systems and revolution will be perished. That is the lesson of blood in the history of the world’s socialist movement," the opinion piece reads.

Earlier, too, the younger generation has been warned to stay away from the popular K-pop music genre and even Korean dramas that, officials believe, negatively affect young people’s dressing sense, dance moves and language.

Following the usual 'traditional' guidelines, North Korea’s younger generation has been warned by Kim Jong-un’s officials to follow the country’s standard language, rather than using slang.

Following the usual 'traditional' guidelines, North Korea’s younger generation has been warned by Kim Jong-un’s officials to follow the country’s standard language, rather than using slang. Young people have been told to adhere to North Korea’s "superior" language, based on the dialect used in the capital city, Pyongyang. The warning came after officials were led to believe that the younger generation’s language and dialect were being heavily influenced by the South. Also read | N Korean, Chinese leaders vow greater cooperation in face of foreign hostility: Report The warning was published in an editorial piece published on Sunday in the official newspaper of the ruling Workers’ party. "The ideological and cultural penetration under the colourful signboard of the bourgeoisie is even more dangerous than enemies who are taking guns," the piece read, according to South Korea’s Yonhap news agency. It, reportedly, talked about young people trying to adapt to the less superior cultural values of several things such as hairstyles, language, spoken word, dialect, and much more. Among the banned words, "oppa” is one of the main slang. It originally was used to address ‘older brother’ but is lately being used as slang to refer to spouse or boyfriend in South Korea. Also read | Kim Jong Un's sudden weight loss sparks rumours about his health Kim Jong-un's government believes if the young people start mimicking South Korea’s traditions and culture, they are diminishing all the revolutionary and ideological advances that have taken place in the country in the past years. "When the new generations have a sound sense of ideology and revolutionary spirits, the future of a country is bright. If not, decades-long social systems and revolution will be perished. That is the lesson of blood in the history of the world’s socialist movement," the opinion piece reads. Earlier, too, the younger generation has been warned to stay away from the popular K-pop music genre and even Korean dramas that, officials believe, negatively affect young people’s dressing sense, dance moves and language.

Use 'superior' language, not South's slang: Kim Jong-un's North Korea warns young people

North Korea is forcibly recruiting married women living near the Chinese border to work on building cement blocks for a wall, Radio Free Asia reported on Monday.

Following the January 2020 agreement between Beijing and Pyongyang to close the border and suspend all trade to stop the spread of the coronavirus, the wall will prevent citizens of the northeastern province of Ryanggang from easily accessing the border, particularly near the province's largest city, Hyesan, where the government discovered a rash of smuggling incidents over the past year.&nbsp;

Initially, North Korea planned to deploy the military and recruit young personnel as labourers, but officials in the province told Radio Free Asia that they realised they needed more men to finish the wall on time.&nbsp;

According to the report, it ordered married women in the area, as young as 20 years old and as old as 60 years old, to begin making 10 blocks of cement per day for the wall until Party Founding Day.&nbsp;

According to RFA sources, people are outraged, since the government began mobilising women for the project after it fell behind schedule.&nbsp;

“Not only are they mobilising the members of the neighbourhood watch units in the border area, but also members of the Socialist Women’s Union of Korea. They are making cement blocks for wall construction,” a resident of the province, who requested anonymity for security reasons, told RFA’s Korean Service on July 5.

For many families, mobilising married women for long-term tasks could be disastrous.

Men in North Korea's budding market economy labour for a government income that isn't nearly enough to survive on.

In many families, females who do not have formal occupations are forced to run businesses to support their families.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea is forcibly recruiting married women living near the Chinese border to work on building cement blocks for a wall, Radio Free Asia reported on Monday.

North Korea is forcibly recruiting married women living near the Chinese border to work on building cement blocks for a wall, Radio Free Asia reported on Monday. Following the January 2020 agreement between Beijing and Pyongyang to close the border and suspend all trade to stop the spread of the coronavirus, the wall will prevent citizens of the northeastern province of Ryanggang from easily accessing the border, particularly near the province's largest city, Hyesan, where the government discovered a rash of smuggling incidents over the past year. Initially, North Korea planned to deploy the military and recruit young personnel as labourers, but officials in the province told Radio Free Asia that they realised they needed more men to finish the wall on time. According to the report, it ordered married women in the area, as young as 20 years old and as old as 60 years old, to begin making 10 blocks of cement per day for the wall until Party Founding Day. According to RFA sources, people are outraged, since the government began mobilising women for the project after it fell behind schedule. “Not only are they mobilising the members of the neighbourhood watch units in the border area, but also members of the Socialist Women’s Union of Korea. They are making cement blocks for wall construction,” a resident of the province, who requested anonymity for security reasons, told RFA’s Korean Service on July 5. For many families, mobilising married women for long-term tasks could be disastrous. Men in North Korea's budding market economy labour for a government income that isn't nearly enough to survive on. In many families, females who do not have formal occupations are forced to run businesses to support their families. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea's Kim Jung Un regime forces married women to work to solve its manpower shortage

South Korea's spy agency said Thursday that&nbsp;Kim&nbsp;Jong&nbsp;Un has lost 44 pounds amid the food crisis in North Korea.

Earlier, the UN's Food and Agricultural Organization had released a report stating that&nbsp;North Korea is facing a severe food shortage equivalent to&nbsp;860,000 tonnes&nbsp;this year.&nbsp;

The National Intelligence Service has told lawmakers in a closed-door briefing that the North Korean leader does not have&nbsp;any health problem despite his recent weight loss.&nbsp;

The spy agency said it has seen no intelligence that hospitals in charge of Kim's health have imported medicines, and that he has recently presided over meetings for several hours and walked normally.

Recent photos from North Korea showed Kim looking much thinner, sparking speculation that he might have health issues.

The NIS said it believes Kim went on a diet to improve his health and lost 10-20 kilograms (22-44 pounds) between February and June.

When&nbsp;Kim&nbsp;reappeared in state media in June after not being seen in public for almost a month, analysts at NK News, a Seoul-based website that monitors North Korea, noted that his watch appeared to be fastened more tightly than before around an apparently slimmer wrist.

Given&nbsp;Kim's tight grip on power in North Korea,&nbsp;and the uncertainty over any plans for a successor,&nbsp;international media, spy agencies, and specialists closely watch his health.

Early last year speculation about&nbsp;Kim’s health exploded after he missed the birth anniversary celebrations of state founder&nbsp;Kim&nbsp;Il Sung on April 15, only to reappear in public in early May.

In 2014, state media reported that&nbsp;Kim&nbsp;was suffering from "discomfort", after a prolonged period out of the public eye.

(With inputs from agencies)

South Korea's spy agency said Thursday that Kim Jong Un has lost 44 pounds amid the food crisis in North Korea. Earlier, the UN's Food and Agricultural Organization had released a report stating that North Korea is facing a severe food shortage equivalent to 860,000 tonnes this year.

South Korea's spy agency said Thursday that Kim Jong Un has lost 44 pounds amid the food crisis in North Korea. Earlier, the UN's Food and Agricultural Organization had released a report stating that North Korea is facing a severe food shortage equivalent to 860,000 tonnes this year. The National Intelligence Service has told lawmakers in a closed-door briefing that the North Korean leader does not have any health problem despite his recent weight loss. The spy agency said it has seen no intelligence that hospitals in charge of Kim's health have imported medicines, and that he has recently presided over meetings for several hours and walked normally. Recent photos from North Korea showed Kim looking much thinner, sparking speculation that he might have health issues. The NIS said it believes Kim went on a diet to improve his health and lost 10-20 kilograms (22-44 pounds) between February and June. When Kim reappeared in state media in June after not being seen in public for almost a month, analysts at NK News, a Seoul-based website that monitors North Korea, noted that his watch appeared to be fastened more tightly than before around an apparently slimmer wrist. Given Kim's tight grip on power in North Korea, and the uncertainty over any plans for a successor, international media, spy agencies, and specialists closely watch his health. Early last year speculation about Kim’s health exploded after he missed the birth anniversary celebrations of state founder Kim Il Sung on April 15, only to reappear in public in early May. In 2014, state media reported that Kim was suffering from "discomfort", after a prolonged period out of the public eye. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has lost 44 pounds amid food shortage

<div>
The UN's Food and Agricultural Organization says that North Korea is facing a severe food shortage equivalent to&nbsp;860,000 tonnes&nbsp;this year.&nbsp;

A "harsh lean period" could begin as soon as next month, according to the agency.

Alos read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-says-food-situation-tense-due-to-pandemic-typhoons-391756" style="color:blue; text-decoration:underline">North Korea’s Kim says food situation ‘tense’ due to pandemic, typhoons</a>

It has long struggled to feed itself, suffering chronic food shortages as a result of multiple international sanctions over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> pandemic and summer of storms and floods further strained the country's economy with&nbsp;Pyongyang acknowledging last month that it was facing a "current food crisis".&nbsp;

In the FAO report, which had a Monday reference date, North Korea is expecting its grain production to be at a "near-average level" of 5.6 million tonnes this year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/widespread-food-shortages-un-human-rights-expert-on-north-koreas-situation-304824" style="color:blue; text-decoration:underline">'Widespread food shortages': UN human rights expert on North Korea's situation</a>

The report indicated that North Korea's total food supply falls short by approximately 1.1 million tonnes. With 205,000 tonnes of commercial imports planned, the country will likely face an 860,000 tonnes shortage of food.

Households in August and October could suffer a harsh lean period if this gap isn't adequately closed through commercial imports or food aid, the report said.

As a result of closing its borders against the pandemic last year, Pyongyang's trade with Beijing -- its economic lifeline -- has slowed down substantially. In addition to this, all international aid workers have left the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-food-shortage-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-orders-citizens-to-give-up-dogs-for-meat-321671" style="color:blue; text-decoration:underline">Amid food shortage, North Korea's Kim Jong Un orders citizens to give up dogs for meat</a>

Last summer, a series of typhoons triggered floods destroying thousands of homes and flooding farmlands. In recent months, Kim Jong Un has made rare references to the hardship, saying that the food situation was getting "tense". North Korea has urged residents to prepare for the "worst-ever conditions".

As a result of the fall of the former Soviet Union, which left the country without crucial aid, North Korea suffered a massive nationwide famine in the 1990s that killed hundreds of thousands of people.
</div>

The UN's Food and Agricultural Organization says that North Korea is facing a severe food shortage equivalent to 860,000 tonnes this year. A "harsh lean period" could begin as soon as next month, according to the agency.

The UN's Food and Agricultural Organization says that North Korea is facing a severe food shortage equivalent to 860,000 tonnes this year. A "harsh lean period" could begin as soon as next month, according to the agency. Alos read | North Korea’s Kim says food situation ‘tense’ due to pandemic, typhoons It has long struggled to feed itself, suffering chronic food shortages as a result of multiple international sanctions over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes. The coronavirus pandemic and summer of storms and floods further strained the country's economy with Pyongyang acknowledging last month that it was facing a "current food crisis". In the FAO report, which had a Monday reference date, North Korea is expecting its grain production to be at a "near-average level" of 5.6 million tonnes this year. Also read | 'Widespread food shortages': UN human rights expert on North Korea's situation The report indicated that North Korea's total food supply falls short by approximately 1.1 million tonnes. With 205,000 tonnes of commercial imports planned, the country will likely face an 860,000 tonnes shortage of food. Households in August and October could suffer a harsh lean period if this gap isn't adequately closed through commercial imports or food aid, the report said. As a result of closing its borders against the pandemic last year, Pyongyang's trade with Beijing -- its economic lifeline -- has slowed down substantially. In addition to this, all international aid workers have left the country. Also read | Amid food shortage, North Korea's Kim Jong Un orders citizens to give up dogs for meat Last summer, a series of typhoons triggered floods destroying thousands of homes and flooding farmlands. In recent months, Kim Jong Un has made rare references to the hardship, saying that the food situation was getting "tense". North Korea has urged residents to prepare for the "worst-ever conditions". As a result of the fall of the former Soviet Union, which left the country without crucial aid, North Korea suffered a massive nationwide famine in the 1990s that killed hundreds of thousands of people.

Kim Jong Un's North Korea will face food shortages of up to 860,000 tonnes: UN agency

UN has warned that North Korea's food crisis could worsen. The World body has said that North Korea could experience a 'harsh lean period' as early as next month. Watch this report to know more.

United Nations: North Korea facing harsh lean period

Is North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un sending an SOS signal to the world? The Wuhan Virus situation in North Korea may be getting out of control.

Gravitas: Is North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un sending an SOS signal to the world?

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un chastised top ruling party officials for failures in anti-epidemic work that led to an unspecified 'great crisis' and put the safety of the country and people at risk, state media reported on Wednesday. 
 
The report by state news agency KCNA did not elaborate on what happened, or how it put people at risk. 
 
North Korea has not officially confirmed any COVID-19 cases, a claim questioned by South Korean and US&nbsp;officials. But the reclusive country has imposed strict anti-virus measures, including border closures and domestic travel curbs. 
 
Kim called a meeting of the Workers' Party of Korea politburo to address some party executives' neglect of duty, including failing to implement important long-term measures to fight the pandemic, KCNA said. 
 
"He mentioned that senior officials in charge of important state affairs neglected the implementation of the important decisions of the Party ... and thus caused a crucial case of creating a great crisis in ensuring the security of the state and safety of the people and entailed grave consequences," the report said. 
 
Several politburo members, secretaries of the central committee, and officials of several state agencies were replaced at the meeting, though KCNA did not specify if the shakeups were related to the neglect of pandemic-related duty.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un chastised top ruling party officials for failures in anti-epidemic work that led to an unspecified 'great crisis' and put the safety of the country and people at risk, state media reported on Wednesday.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un chastised top ruling party officials for failures in anti-epidemic work that led to an unspecified 'great crisis' and put the safety of the country and people at risk, state media reported on Wednesday. The report by state news agency KCNA did not elaborate on what happened, or how it put people at risk. North Korea has not officially confirmed any COVID-19 cases, a claim questioned by South Korean and US officials. But the reclusive country has imposed strict anti-virus measures, including border closures and domestic travel curbs. Kim called a meeting of the Workers' Party of Korea politburo to address some party executives' neglect of duty, including failing to implement important long-term measures to fight the pandemic, KCNA said. "He mentioned that senior officials in charge of important state affairs neglected the implementation of the important decisions of the Party ... and thus caused a crucial case of creating a great crisis in ensuring the security of the state and safety of the people and entailed grave consequences," the report said. Several politburo members, secretaries of the central committee, and officials of several state agencies were replaced at the meeting, though KCNA did not specify if the shakeups were related to the neglect of pandemic-related duty. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea's Kim chides officials for unspecified pandemic lapse

Everyone in&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea is heartbroken over leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/kim-jong-un">Kim Jong Un's</a> apparent weight loss, said an unidentified resident of Pyongyang quoted on the country's tightly controlled state media, after watching recent video footage of Kim.

The rare public comment on Kim's health comes after foreign analysts noted in early June that the autocratic leader, who is believed to be 37, appeared to have lost a noticeable amount of weight.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/interesting-signal-from-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-says-white-house-393019">'Interesting signal' from North Korea's Kim Jong Un, says White House</a>

"Seeing respected general secretary (Kim Jong Un) looking emaciated breaks our people's heart so much," the man said in an interview aired by state broadcaster KRT on Friday.

"Everyone is saying that their tears welled up," he said.

In the clip, which Reuters could not independently verify, Pyongyang residents were seen watching a big screen on the street showing a concert attended by Kim and party officials after a plenary meeting of their Workers' Party of Korea (WPK).

The broadcast did not provide any details on what had led to the weight loss.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-jong-un-reappears-days-after-health-speculations-323107">North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reappears days after health speculations</a>

When Kim reappeared in state media in June after not being seen in public for almost a month, analysts at NK News, a Seoul-based website that monitors&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea, noted that his watch appeared to be fastened more tightly than before around an apparently slimmer wrist.

Given Kim's tight grip on power in&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea - and the uncertainty over any plans for a successor - international media, spy agencies, and specialists closely watch his health.

Early last year speculation about Kim’s health exploded after he missed the birth anniversary celebrations of state founder Kim Il Sung on April 15, only to reappear in public in early May.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-tightens-ruling-party-discipline-appoints-new-politburo-members-392500">Kim Jong Un tightens ruling party discipline, appoints new politburo members</a>

In 2014, state media reported that Kim was suffering from "discomfort", after a prolonged period out of the public eye.

Everyone in North Korea is heartbroken over leader Kim Jong Un's apparent weight loss, said an unidentified resident of Pyongyang quoted on the country's tightly controlled state media, after watching recent video footage of Kim.

Everyone in North Korea is heartbroken over leader Kim Jong Un's apparent weight loss, said an unidentified resident of Pyongyang quoted on the country's tightly controlled state media, after watching recent video footage of Kim. The rare public comment on Kim's health comes after foreign analysts noted in early June that the autocratic leader, who is believed to be 37, appeared to have lost a noticeable amount of weight. Also read | 'Interesting signal' from North Korea's Kim Jong Un, says White House "Seeing respected general secretary (Kim Jong Un) looking emaciated breaks our people's heart so much," the man said in an interview aired by state broadcaster KRT on Friday. "Everyone is saying that their tears welled up," he said. In the clip, which Reuters could not independently verify, Pyongyang residents were seen watching a big screen on the street showing a concert attended by Kim and party officials after a plenary meeting of their Workers' Party of Korea (WPK). The broadcast did not provide any details on what had led to the weight loss. Also read | North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reappears days after health speculations When Kim reappeared in state media in June after not being seen in public for almost a month, analysts at NK News, a Seoul-based website that monitors North Korea, noted that his watch appeared to be fastened more tightly than before around an apparently slimmer wrist. Given Kim's tight grip on power in North Korea - and the uncertainty over any plans for a successor - international media, spy agencies, and specialists closely watch his health. Early last year speculation about Kim’s health exploded after he missed the birth anniversary celebrations of state founder Kim Il Sung on April 15, only to reappear in public in early May. Also read | Kim Jong Un tightens ruling party discipline, appoints new politburo members In 2014, state media reported that Kim was suffering from "discomfort", after a prolonged period out of the public eye.

North Koreans worry over 'emaciated' Kim Jong Un, says state media

North Koreans are worried about their supreme leader Kim Jong-un's weight loss after citizens got a glimpse of him on 4 June after a month-long absence from public view.

North Koreans worry over 'emaciated' leader Kim Jong-un's weight loss

The statement by Ri Son Gwon came a day after the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un issued a message saying that US expectations of talks would “plunge them into a greater disappointment”.

North Korea rejects any talks with US

A North Korean philatelist living in Pyongyang who started to collect postage stamps at the age of five, said stamps breaks her fatigue

North Korea's philatelist says stamp collection breaks her fatigue

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