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.

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”.

'Strong army, rich nation': Kim Jong-un marks war anniversary with fresh 'anti-US' message

The White House on Friday in a statement confirmed that it “remains open to engaging” &nbsp;with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to achieve a “fully denuclearised North Korea”. This development comes a day after the Trump administration's crackdown on illicit funding loops of North Korea. The statement is coherent with the objectives of the first term, where Trump held three high-level summits with North Korea to pursue denuclearisation, though these talks failed without any concrete progress.&nbsp;"President Trump in his first term held three historic summits with North Korean Leader Kim Jong-un that stabilised the Korean Peninsula and achieved the first-ever leader-level agreement on denuclearisation," said a White House official to Yonhap News Agency. The three meetings happened in Singapore in 2018, Hanoi in February 2019, and Panmunjom in June 2019, respectively.Notably, on July 24, the US Department of the Treasury sanctioned the Korea Sobaeksu Trading Company and three individuals, Kim Se Un, Jo Kyong Hun, and Myong Chol Min, allegedly linking them with illicit funding of Pyongyang’s nuclear and missile programs.&nbsp;In June, Trump seemed optimistic to get "the conflict solved" with North Korea, if there is one, hinting at the possibility of a dialogue. The administration seems to be taking a dual approach, on the one hand remaining open to diplomacy and on the other hand pressuring it through sanctions and enforcement actions.<h2>How did North Korea respond?</h2>North Korea did not respond positively to Trump's overtures. Late in June, North Korean diplomats refused a letter from Trump displaying a strong pushback against any renewed communication. Meanwhile, Kim Jong Un has repeatedly denounced the US, South Korea and Japan military partnership. It vowed to modernise its missiles and increase its nuclear arsenal. Analysts suggest that North Korea is less interested in US engagement, with strong diplomatic relations with Russia and China.

The White House on Friday said that it wants a fully denuclearised North Korea and remains open to talks with Kim Jong Un for that purpose. Historically, North Korea opposed US dominance in the Korean Peninsula and the US, South Korea and Japan military partnership.

The White House on Friday in a statement confirmed that it “remains open to engaging” with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to achieve a “fully denuclearised North Korea”. This development comes a day after the Trump administration's crackdown on illicit funding loops of North Korea. The statement is coherent with the objectives of the first term, where Trump held three high-level summits with North Korea to pursue denuclearisation, though these talks failed without any concrete progress. "President Trump in his first term held three historic summits with North Korean Leader Kim Jong-un that stabilised the Korean Peninsula and achieved the first-ever leader-level agreement on denuclearisation," said a White House official to Yonhap News Agency. The three meetings happened in Singapore in 2018, Hanoi in February 2019, and Panmunjom in June 2019, respectively. Notably, on July 24, the US Department of the Treasury sanctioned the Korea Sobaeksu Trading Company and three individuals, Kim Se Un, Jo Kyong Hun, and Myong Chol Min, allegedly linking them with illicit funding of Pyongyang’s nuclear and missile programs. In June, Trump seemed optimistic to get "the conflict solved" with North Korea, if there is one, hinting at the possibility of a dialogue. The administration seems to be taking a dual approach, on the one hand remaining open to diplomacy and on the other hand pressuring it through sanctions and enforcement actions. How did North Korea respond? North Korea did not respond positively to Trump's overtures. Late in June, North Korean diplomats refused a letter from Trump displaying a strong pushback against any renewed communication. Meanwhile, Kim Jong Un has repeatedly denounced the US, South Korea and Japan military partnership. It vowed to modernise its missiles and increase its nuclear arsenal. Analysts suggest that North Korea is less interested in US engagement, with strong diplomatic relations with Russia and China.

The White House on Friday said that it wants a fully denuclearised North Korea and remains open to talks with Kim Jong Un for that purpose. Historically, North Korea opposed US dominance in the Korean Peninsula and the US, South Korea and Japan military partnership.

Trump open to talks with Kim — but only after ‘FULL DENUCLEARISATION'

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

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

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

Amid the escalating Russia-Ukraine war, North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un has instructed the Pyongyang military to prepare for a "real war" during a recent artillery firing exercise, according to the state media. He has urged his armed forces to remain combat-ready. This comes as North Korea seeks to deepen ties with Russia and strengthen military cooperation.&nbsp;According to the state media, the North Korean leader has instructed his armed forces to be "capable of destroying the enemy in every battle".&nbsp;A video shared on the state television showed artillery unit soldiers firing shells into the sea. As seen in the video, Kim was observing the drill through binoculars from an observation post, along with two senior military officials.However, the exact location of Wednesday's exercise was not revealed.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/kim-jong-un-honours-north-korean-soldiers-killed-in-ukraine-1751475589437/embed&nbsp;North Korea has deployed defence troops and weapons to aid Russia during its nearly 30-month-long offensive against Ukraine. While the leader Kim Jong Un had given "unconditional support" for Russia in their war with Ukraine.&nbsp;Earlier, the Western intelligence agencies claimed that North Korea had sent more than 10,000 security troops to Russia's Kursk region last year. Additionally, it also provided them with artillery shells, missiles, and long-range rocket systems.&nbsp;To maintain secrecy, the North Koreans were given Russian uniforms, weapons, and falsified military documents. They were even assigned Russian names, and most of them were 'born' in the Siberian republic of Tuva, where the population has Asian features. These troops were integrated into Russian marine and assault corps units and sent to the frontlines.&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised Russia for exploiting these soldiers, and described them as being raised in an information vacuum and used by Russia solely to prolong and escalate its war against Ukraine.&nbsp;Moreover, Ukraine's military thinks the conflict serves as a training ground for North Korean soldiers. According to Major General Vadym Skybytskyi, HUR’s deputy chief, who told The Guardian that the North Korean troops are gaining valuable experience in modern warfare. He said they are learning from earlier mistakes by trial and error.

The North Korean leader has instructed the armed forces to be ready for a combat as Russia-Ukraine war intensifies. Kim Jong Un directed the army as a video shared by local media shows artillery unit soldiers firing shells into the sea.

Amid the escalating Russia-Ukraine war, North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un has instructed the Pyongyang military to prepare for a "real war" during a recent artillery firing exercise, according to the state media. He has urged his armed forces to remain combat-ready. This comes as North Korea seeks to deepen ties with Russia and strengthen military cooperation. According to the state media, the North Korean leader has instructed his armed forces to be "capable of destroying the enemy in every battle". A video shared on the state television showed artillery unit soldiers firing shells into the sea. As seen in the video, Kim was observing the drill through binoculars from an observation post, along with two senior military officials. However, the exact location of Wednesday's exercise was not revealed. https://www.wionews.com/videos/kim-jong-un-honours-north-korean-soldiers-killed-in-ukraine-1751475589437/embed North Korea has deployed defence troops and weapons to aid Russia during its nearly 30-month-long offensive against Ukraine. While the leader Kim Jong Un had given "unconditional support" for Russia in their war with Ukraine. Earlier, the Western intelligence agencies claimed that North Korea had sent more than 10,000 security troops to Russia's Kursk region last year. Additionally, it also provided them with artillery shells, missiles, and long-range rocket systems. To maintain secrecy, the North Koreans were given Russian uniforms, weapons, and falsified military documents. They were even assigned Russian names, and most of them were 'born' in the Siberian republic of Tuva, where the population has Asian features. These troops were integrated into Russian marine and assault corps units and sent to the frontlines. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised Russia for exploiting these soldiers, and described them as being raised in an information vacuum and used by Russia solely to prolong and escalate its war against Ukraine. Moreover, Ukraine's military thinks the conflict serves as a training ground for North Korean soldiers. According to Major General Vadym Skybytskyi, HUR’s deputy chief, who told The Guardian that the North Korean troops are gaining valuable experience in modern warfare. He said they are learning from earlier mistakes by trial and error.

The North Korean leader has instructed the armed forces to be ready for a combat as Russia-Ukraine war intensifies. Kim Jong Un directed the army as a video shared by local media shows artillery unit soldiers firing shells into the sea.

North Korea preparing for 'real war'? Kim Jong Un orders armed forces to stay 'combat ready' amid raging Russia-Ukraine war

As North Korea opens a new waterfront resort to increase the country's business and economic growth, however, without foreign visitors, Kim Jong-un's plan would not work. The North Korean leader hoped that one day with tourist cash, it would offset financially punishing sanctions.Earlier this week on Thursday, a crowd of North Korean families gathered on a 2.5-mile-long scenic beach on its central east coast, according to state media.“The joy and optimism of the tourists were overflowing everywhere, and the song of happiness resounded in the windows of bright lodgings,” the North’s official Korean Central News Agency said.The Wonsan Kalma resort, which can accommodate 20,000 people, was opened to attract foreign tourists, Kim said as his wife and his daughter attended a ceremony in late June after the resort was built.However, Kim's plans did not go as he planned. The North Korean state media released photos of North Korean families, bathing, skiing, and riding water slides at the resort. But, there were no foreign tourists.According to the South Korean officials, Russian tourists were expected to visit the beach over the summer, however, there would be fewer people due to limited transportation options in North Korea and poor road conditions.Recently, visits by hundreds of Russian tourists have shown a good relationship between the two countries after North Korea supplied much-needed personnel and weaponry to aid Russia in its war against Ukraine.However, when it comes to China, the citizens are still not allowed to travel to North Korea. China fears that North Korea will build relations with Russia, which could reduce its leverage over an uncooperative Pyongyang.Kim has been promoting tourism after the United Nations imposed severe sanctions in 2017, banning all of North Korea's main exports, including coal and textiles. The sanctions were announced to deprive North Korea of the means of earning foreign currency to finance its nuclear and missile programs.&nbsp;

Kim's plans did not go as he planned. The North Korean state media released photos of North Korean families, bathing, skiing, and riding water slides at the resort. But, there were no foreign tourists.

As North Korea opens a new waterfront resort to increase the country's business and economic growth, however, without foreign visitors, Kim Jong-un's plan would not work. The North Korean leader hoped that one day with tourist cash, it would offset financially punishing sanctions. Earlier this week on Thursday, a crowd of North Korean families gathered on a 2.5-mile-long scenic beach on its central east coast, according to state media. “The joy and optimism of the tourists were overflowing everywhere, and the song of happiness resounded in the windows of bright lodgings,” the North’s official Korean Central News Agency said. The Wonsan Kalma resort, which can accommodate 20,000 people, was opened to attract foreign tourists, Kim said as his wife and his daughter attended a ceremony in late June after the resort was built. However, Kim's plans did not go as he planned. The North Korean state media released photos of North Korean families, bathing, skiing, and riding water slides at the resort. But, there were no foreign tourists. According to the South Korean officials, Russian tourists were expected to visit the beach over the summer, however, there would be fewer people due to limited transportation options in North Korea and poor road conditions. Recently, visits by hundreds of Russian tourists have shown a good relationship between the two countries after North Korea supplied much-needed personnel and weaponry to aid Russia in its war against Ukraine. However, when it comes to China, the citizens are still not allowed to travel to North Korea. China fears that North Korea will build relations with Russia, which could reduce its leverage over an uncooperative Pyongyang. Kim has been promoting tourism after the United Nations imposed severe sanctions in 2017, banning all of North Korea's main exports, including coal and textiles. The sanctions were announced to deprive North Korea of the means of earning foreign currency to finance its nuclear and missile programs.

Kim's plans did not go as he planned. The North Korean state media released photos of North Korean families, bathing, skiing, and riding water slides at the resort. But, there were no foreign tourists.

North Korea opened beach resort to boost economy, but no foreign tourists spotted. Is Kim's plan failing?

South Korea’s new President Lee Jae Myung has acknowledged that it remains unclear whether Seoul and Washington can settle their high-stakes tariff negotiations before a deadline set by US President Donald Trump, as both sides struggle to reconcile competing demands. At his first news conference since taking office last month, Lee struck a cautious tone, saying talks with the United States were “clearly not easy” and that negotiators were still working to clarify their positions and define common ground. As per the Associated Press, Lee warned that it was impossible to guarantee an agreement before Trump’s deadline next week, even as both governments race to avoid punishing new tariffs on South Korean exports.<h2>A deadline with big stakes</h2>The sense of urgency stems from Trump’s 90-day pause on new “global reciprocal tariffs,” which is set to expire on July 9. Once that pause ends, South Korean goods could be hit with sweeping 25 per cent tariffs—posing a major threat to the trade-dependent economy. South Korean officials are particularly worried about the possibility of higher duties on critical sectors such as automobiles and semiconductors. According to the Associated Press, these industries are the backbone of the country’s exports and a vital source of jobs and growth.&nbsp;Lee said it was essential to secure a “truly reciprocal outcome that benefits both sides,” but admitted the process was proving complex and politically sensitive. “It’s difficult to say with certainty whether we will be able to reach a conclusion by July 8. We are now doing our best,” he told reporters.<h2>Trump’s tough stance</h2>President Trump has championed his “America First” approach to trade, demanding what he calls fairer, more balanced deals with key partners. The Trump administration argues that some foreign producers have unfairly benefited from past trade rules at America’s expense. The Associated Press reports that Trump has also insisted on new tariff measures to stop companies from evading existing duties by shipping Chinese-made goods through third countries like Vietnam or South Korea.&nbsp;Beyond tariffs, there are concerns in Seoul that Trump might use the trade negotiations to demand higher payments from South Korea to cover the cost of hosting 28,000 US troops on the peninsula forces seen as vital to deterring North Korean threats.<h2>Lee’s cautious approach</h2>Lee, who came to power after winning a snap election following the ouster of conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol, has sought to balance a firm defence of South Korea’s interests with a pragmatic approach to US ties.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Associated Press notes that Lee has consistently urged patience in tariff negotiations, arguing that rushing into a deal could undermine the national interest. His trade minister, Yeo Han-koo, is reportedly arranging meetings in Washington with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick in a last-ditch bid to secure a compromise.<h2>Broader diplomatic goals</h2>While trade is dominating headlines, Lee also used his news conference to lay out his vision for improving relations with North Korea. According to the Associated Press, Lee pledged to restart long-dormant inter-Korean talks, despite acknowledging that deep-seated distrust would make quick progress difficult. He also proposed resuming more frequent summits with Japan and reaffirmed his intention to pursue “pragmatic diplomacy” that balances ties with the US, China, Russia and North Korea.&nbsp;Lee’s government has already taken small steps to ease tensions with Pyongyang, halting anti-North propaganda broadcasts at the border and cracking down on activists who send leaflet balloons across the heavily fortified frontier.<h2>A delicate balance</h2>Lee’s challenge now is to secure a trade deal with Washington that shields Korean industry from crippling tariffs, while also managing an unpredictable relationship with North Korea and navigating Trump’s transactional approach to alliances.&nbsp;As the tariff deadline looms, South Korea’s new president is walking a tightrope, seeking to avoid economic disruption while maintaining the country’s strategic security partnership with the United States.&nbsp;(With inputs from the agencies)&nbsp;

With US tariffs set to hit South Korean exports, President Lee Jae Myung voices doubts over reaching a deal in time, as Seoul scrambles to protect key industries and manage diplomatic ties with Washington.

South Korea’s new President Lee Jae Myung has acknowledged that it remains unclear whether Seoul and Washington can settle their high-stakes tariff negotiations before a deadline set by US President Donald Trump, as both sides struggle to reconcile competing demands. At his first news conference since taking office last month, Lee struck a cautious tone, saying talks with the United States were “clearly not easy” and that negotiators were still working to clarify their positions and define common ground. As per the Associated Press, Lee warned that it was impossible to guarantee an agreement before Trump’s deadline next week, even as both governments race to avoid punishing new tariffs on South Korean exports. A deadline with big stakes The sense of urgency stems from Trump’s 90-day pause on new “global reciprocal tariffs,” which is set to expire on July 9. Once that pause ends, South Korean goods could be hit with sweeping 25 per cent tariffs—posing a major threat to the trade-dependent economy. South Korean officials are particularly worried about the possibility of higher duties on critical sectors such as automobiles and semiconductors. According to the Associated Press, these industries are the backbone of the country’s exports and a vital source of jobs and growth. Lee said it was essential to secure a “truly reciprocal outcome that benefits both sides,” but admitted the process was proving complex and politically sensitive. “It’s difficult to say with certainty whether we will be able to reach a conclusion by July 8. We are now doing our best,” he told reporters. Trump’s tough stance President Trump has championed his “America First” approach to trade, demanding what he calls fairer, more balanced deals with key partners. The Trump administration argues that some foreign producers have unfairly benefited from past trade rules at America’s expense. The Associated Press reports that Trump has also insisted on new tariff measures to stop companies from evading existing duties by shipping Chinese-made goods through third countries like Vietnam or South Korea. Beyond tariffs, there are concerns in Seoul that Trump might use the trade negotiations to demand higher payments from South Korea to cover the cost of hosting 28,000 US troops on the peninsula forces seen as vital to deterring North Korean threats. Lee’s cautious approach Lee, who came to power after winning a snap election following the ouster of conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol, has sought to balance a firm defence of South Korea’s interests with a pragmatic approach to US ties. The Associated Press notes that Lee has consistently urged patience in tariff negotiations, arguing that rushing into a deal could undermine the national interest. His trade minister, Yeo Han-koo, is reportedly arranging meetings in Washington with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick in a last-ditch bid to secure a compromise. Broader diplomatic goals While trade is dominating headlines, Lee also used his news conference to lay out his vision for improving relations with North Korea. According to the Associated Press, Lee pledged to restart long-dormant inter-Korean talks, despite acknowledging that deep-seated distrust would make quick progress difficult. He also proposed resuming more frequent summits with Japan and reaffirmed his intention to pursue “pragmatic diplomacy” that balances ties with the US, China, Russia and North Korea. Lee’s government has already taken small steps to ease tensions with Pyongyang, halting anti-North propaganda broadcasts at the border and cracking down on activists who send leaflet balloons across the heavily fortified frontier. A delicate balance Lee’s challenge now is to secure a trade deal with Washington that shields Korean industry from crippling tariffs, while also managing an unpredictable relationship with North Korea and navigating Trump’s transactional approach to alliances. As the tariff deadline looms, South Korea’s new president is walking a tightrope, seeking to avoid economic disruption while maintaining the country’s strategic security partnership with the United States. (With inputs from the agencies)

South Korea’s President Lee Jae Myung warns of uncertainty over sealing a US tariff deal before Trump’s looming July 9 deadline.

US–South Korea tariff deal in doubt as Trump’s deadline approaches

While American B-2 bombers streak across Iran, bombing facilities related to Tehran's nuclear ambitions, policymakers and experts in East Asia were already preoccupied with a key question: What message does this send to North Korea, a nation whose nuclear program is much more advanced than that of Iran? Experts warn that Washington's military interventions might make Pyongyang more determined to step up its weapons program and expand coordination with Russia, as well as harden its leader Kim Jong Un's conviction that nuclear weapons are the ultimate defense against US-enforced regime change.&nbsp;Even after years of attempts to dissuade North Korea from keeping its nuclear weapons program, the Kim regime is believed to have several nuclear weapons, along with missiles capable of reaching the United States – thus, any potential military attack on the Korean Peninsula would have immensely greater risks.&nbsp;President Trump's attack on Iran's nuclear facilities will inevitably further strengthen the legitimacy of North Korea's long-held policy of regime survival and nuclear armament," Lim Eul-chul, a professor of North Korean studies at South Korea's Kyungnam University was quoted saying to CNN. "North Korea views the recent US air strike as a preemptive military attack and will probably speed up efforts to improve its own preemptive nuclear missile capability," added Lim.&nbsp;That speed, experts warn, might be delivered by way of Russian support, as a result of an emerging military romance the two neighbors have embarked upon since Moscow invaded Ukraine. Since it was formally established in 2024, North Korea's strategic alliance with Russia has emerged as a very important economic and military lifeline for Pyongyang in the face of continuing Western sanctions.&nbsp;"Under the strategic partnership with Russia, Pyongyang will tend to proceed to cooperative weapons development, cooperative military drills, technology exchange, and increased mutual interdependence in economic and military areas," Lim explained.&nbsp;North Korea has dispatched over 14,000 troops and millions of ammunition, including missiles and rockets, to support Russia's invasion, says a report by the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT), a program composed of 11 United Nations members. Russia has returned the favour by supplying North Korea with diverse precious pieces of weaponry and technology, such as air defense systems, anti-aircraft missiles, electronic warfare capabilities and refined petroleum.&nbsp;These activities "enables North Korea to finance its military projects and continue to expand its ballistic missiles programmes, which are themselves illegal under several (UN Security Council resolutions), and acquire first-hand exposure to contemporary warfare," the study showed.&nbsp;In Kim's view, recent US military intervention in Iran is following a disturbing pattern of logic: countries without nuclear power, from Iraq and Libya to Iran, are susceptible to US intervention, Victor Cha, Korea chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies was quoted saying to CNN. North Korea, having now tested six nuclear devices and built long-range missiles, regards its arsenal as non-negotiable.&nbsp;As described by Cha, Washington's attacks against Tehran's nuclear facilities will certainly make an indelible mark on the Kim regime. "The strikes against Iran will only reinforce two things for North Korea, neither one of which plays well for US policy," he said. "One: the US has no use-of-force alternative for North Korea's nuclear program like they did with Israel and Iran. Two: the attack only confirms in Kim Jong Un's mind his commitment to continue seeking and having a nuclear arsenal."&nbsp;And the difference between Iran and North Korea is dramatic, especially when it comes to nuclear weapons. Iran, on the other hand, has not yet produced a deliverable nuclear weapon and its uranium enrichment had still fallen below the level for weaponisation, the International Atomic Energy Agency's most recent estimate said.&nbsp;It had also engaged in years of diplomatic efforts with the US and Western nations regarding its nuclear program, diplomacy that was ostensibly still active when Trump authorised B-2 stealth bombers to release "bunker busting" bombs on Iran's nuclear sites. North Korea is estimated to have between 40 and 50 warheads, as well as the capability to deliver them throughout the region and possibly even to the US mainland.

Trumps Iran strike sends chilling signal to nuclear armed North Korea Whats next for Kim Jong Un

While American B-2 bombers streak across Iran, bombing facilities related to Tehran's nuclear ambitions, policymakers and experts in East Asia were already preoccupied with a key question: What message does this send to North Korea, a nation whose nuclear program is much more advanced than that of Iran? Experts warn that Washington's military interventions might make Pyongyang more determined to step up its weapons program and expand coordination with Russia, as well as harden its leader Kim Jong Un's conviction that nuclear weapons are the ultimate defense against US-enforced regime change. Even after years of attempts to dissuade North Korea from keeping its nuclear weapons program, the Kim regime is believed to have several nuclear weapons, along with missiles capable of reaching the United States – thus, any potential military attack on the Korean Peninsula would have immensely greater risks. President Trump's attack on Iran's nuclear facilities will inevitably further strengthen the legitimacy of North Korea's long-held policy of regime survival and nuclear armament," Lim Eul-chul, a professor of North Korean studies at South Korea's Kyungnam University was quoted saying to CNN. "North Korea views the recent US air strike as a preemptive military attack and will probably speed up efforts to improve its own preemptive nuclear missile capability," added Lim. That speed, experts warn, might be delivered by way of Russian support, as a result of an emerging military romance the two neighbors have embarked upon since Moscow invaded Ukraine. Since it was formally established in 2024, North Korea's strategic alliance with Russia has emerged as a very important economic and military lifeline for Pyongyang in the face of continuing Western sanctions. "Under the strategic partnership with Russia, Pyongyang will tend to proceed to cooperative weapons development, cooperative military drills, technology exchange, and increased mutual interdependence in economic and military areas," Lim explained. North Korea has dispatched over 14,000 troops and millions of ammunition, including missiles and rockets, to support Russia's invasion, says a report by the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT), a program composed of 11 United Nations members. Russia has returned the favour by supplying North Korea with diverse precious pieces of weaponry and technology, such as air defense systems, anti-aircraft missiles, electronic warfare capabilities and refined petroleum. These activities "enables North Korea to finance its military projects and continue to expand its ballistic missiles programmes, which are themselves illegal under several (UN Security Council resolutions), and acquire first-hand exposure to contemporary warfare," the study showed. In Kim's view, recent US military intervention in Iran is following a disturbing pattern of logic: countries without nuclear power, from Iraq and Libya to Iran, are susceptible to US intervention, Victor Cha, Korea chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies was quoted saying to CNN. North Korea, having now tested six nuclear devices and built long-range missiles, regards its arsenal as non-negotiable. As described by Cha, Washington's attacks against Tehran's nuclear facilities will certainly make an indelible mark on the Kim regime. "The strikes against Iran will only reinforce two things for North Korea, neither one of which plays well for US policy," he said. "One: the US has no use-of-force alternative for North Korea's nuclear program like they did with Israel and Iran. Two: the attack only confirms in Kim Jong Un's mind his commitment to continue seeking and having a nuclear arsenal." And the difference between Iran and North Korea is dramatic, especially when it comes to nuclear weapons. Iran, on the other hand, has not yet produced a deliverable nuclear weapon and its uranium enrichment had still fallen below the level for weaponisation, the International Atomic Energy Agency's most recent estimate said. It had also engaged in years of diplomatic efforts with the US and Western nations regarding its nuclear program, diplomacy that was ostensibly still active when Trump authorised B-2 stealth bombers to release "bunker busting" bombs on Iran's nuclear sites. North Korea is estimated to have between 40 and 50 warheads, as well as the capability to deliver them throughout the region and possibly even to the US mainland.

Despite yearslong efforts to persuade North Korea to abandon its nuclear weapons program, the Kim regime is thought to possess multiple nuclear weapons, as well as missiles that can potentially reach the United States&nbsp;

Trump’s Iran strike sends chilling signal to nuclear-armed North Korea. What's next for Kim Jong Un?

The United States, 75 years ago, controlled North Korea's Pyongyang for eight weeks. According to the US Army histories, in 1950, the US Army's Cavalry Division along with a division of South Korean soldiers captured the North Korean capital on October 19.According to the histories, the US forces quickly got comfortable there, making it their home. All this happened during the "Korean War", also known as "The Forgotten War", which occurred during 25 June 1950 – 27 July 1953.One of the world's most secretive cities, Pyongyang, North Korea's capital, was under the US Army's control. By October 22, the US Eighth Army had set up its advance headquarters in what was the headquarters building for North Korean leader Kim Il Sung.However, this period did not last long. The Chinese troops entered the war in late November 1950 and pushed South Korean and US forces out of Pyongyang by December 5.The Korean war that began 75 years ago this week, was considered as the first major armed conflict of the Cold War era. More than 135,000 North Korean troops invaded South Korea, beginning a war that took millions of lives and causing impact which is still there today. The US Army intervened in the war, sending combat troops in aid of South Korea under the United Nations Command.<h2>Why was it called 'The Forgotten War'?</h2>The war in Korea was overshadowed by World War II, a much bigger conflict that ended less than five years earlier.The US Army referred to the Korean War as "the Forgotten War" as it got less public attention compared to World War II and the Vietnam War. The US, however, never declared war on North Korea and instead called it a "police action" under the orders of the UN.The war fought from 1950 until 1953, was also overlooked by the media and the public as they were focusing on the larger and impactful events, and leaving the Korean War on the sideline.

However, this period did not last long. The Chinese troops entered the war in late November 1950 and pushed South Korean and US forces out of Pyongyang by December 5.

The United States, 75 years ago, controlled North Korea's Pyongyang for eight weeks. According to the US Army histories, in 1950, the US Army's Cavalry Division along with a division of South Korean soldiers captured the North Korean capital on October 19. According to the histories, the US forces quickly got comfortable there, making it their home. All this happened during the "Korean War", also known as "The Forgotten War", which occurred during 25 June 1950 – 27 July 1953. One of the world's most secretive cities, Pyongyang, North Korea's capital, was under the US Army's control. By October 22, the US Eighth Army had set up its advance headquarters in what was the headquarters building for North Korean leader Kim Il Sung. However, this period did not last long. The Chinese troops entered the war in late November 1950 and pushed South Korean and US forces out of Pyongyang by December 5. The Korean war that began 75 years ago this week, was considered as the first major armed conflict of the Cold War era. More than 135,000 North Korean troops invaded South Korea, beginning a war that took millions of lives and causing impact which is still there today. The US Army intervened in the war, sending combat troops in aid of South Korea under the United Nations Command. Why was it called 'The Forgotten War'? The war in Korea was overshadowed by World War II, a much bigger conflict that ended less than five years earlier. The US Army referred to the Korean War as "the Forgotten War" as it got less public attention compared to World War II and the Vietnam War. The US, however, never declared war on North Korea and instead called it a "police action" under the orders of the UN. The war fought from 1950 until 1953, was also overlooked by the media and the public as they were focusing on the larger and impactful events, and leaving the Korean War on the sideline.

However, this period did not last long. The Chinese troops entered the war in late November 1950 and pushed South Korean and US forces out of Pyongyang by December 5.

US Army once controlled one of the world’s most SECRETIVE cities - Hint: A North Korean city - Here's all you need to know

The Korean war that began 75 years ago this week, was considered as the first major armed conflict of the Cold War era. More than 135,000 North Korean troops invaded South Korea, beginning a war that took millions of lives and causing impact which is still there today. The US Army intervened in the war, sending combat troops in aid of South Korea under the United Nations Command.The war in Korea was overshadowed by the World War II, a much bigger conflict that ended less than five years earlier.<h2>'The Forgotten War'</h2>The US Army referred to the Korean War as "the Forgotten War" as it got less public attention compared to World War II and the Vietnam War. The US, however, never declared war on North Korea and instead called it a "police action" under the orders of the UN.The war fought from 1950 until 1953, was also overlooked by the media and the public as they were focusing on the larger and impactful events, and leaving the Korean War on the sideline.On the directions of the United Nations Command, 16 nations including the US, sent combat troops to South Korea. While the Chinese troops intervened on the North Korean side.<h2>How it started?</h2>It all began when North Korean forces stormed across the 38th parallel dividing North and South Korea. Later in 1953, an armistice stopped the war, however, it was never officially over since there was no peace treaty.During the three years of war, the US aircraft dropped 635,000 tons of bombs, both high explosive and incendiary on North Korea.It is more than the 500,000 tons of bombs the US dropped in the Pacific in the entirety of the Second World War, according to a report."We went over there and fought the war and eventually burned down every town in North Korea anyway, some way or another," General Curtis LeMay, father of US strategic bombing and the architect of fire raids that destroyed swathes of Japanese cities in World War II, said.He said that the bombing of North Korea has effects that still have effects to this day.

The war in Korea was overshadowed by the World War II, a much bigger conflict that ended less than five years earlier.

The Korean war that began 75 years ago this week, was considered as the first major armed conflict of the Cold War era. More than 135,000 North Korean troops invaded South Korea, beginning a war that took millions of lives and causing impact which is still there today. The US Army intervened in the war, sending combat troops in aid of South Korea under the United Nations Command. The war in Korea was overshadowed by the World War II, a much bigger conflict that ended less than five years earlier. 'The Forgotten War' The US Army referred to the Korean War as "the Forgotten War" as it got less public attention compared to World War II and the Vietnam War. The US, however, never declared war on North Korea and instead called it a "police action" under the orders of the UN. The war fought from 1950 until 1953, was also overlooked by the media and the public as they were focusing on the larger and impactful events, and leaving the Korean War on the sideline. On the directions of the United Nations Command, 16 nations including the US, sent combat troops to South Korea. While the Chinese troops intervened on the North Korean side. How it started? It all began when North Korean forces stormed across the 38th parallel dividing North and South Korea. Later in 1953, an armistice stopped the war, however, it was never officially over since there was no peace treaty. During the three years of war, the US aircraft dropped 635,000 tons of bombs, both high explosive and incendiary on North Korea. It is more than the 500,000 tons of bombs the US dropped in the Pacific in the entirety of the Second World War, according to a report. "We went over there and fought the war and eventually burned down every town in North Korea anyway, some way or another," General Curtis LeMay, father of US strategic bombing and the architect of fire raids that destroyed swathes of Japanese cities in World War II, said. He said that the bombing of North Korea has effects that still have effects to this day.

The war in Korea was overshadowed by the World War II, a much bigger conflict that ended less than five years earlier.

'The Forgotten War': 75 years ago, US intervened in North Korea-South Korea war with 635,000 tons of bombs - It has never ended

North Korea starts a resort, Wonsan Kalma coastal tourist area, to boost tourism, but it is open only to Russians and North Koreans

North Korea starts a resort, Wonsan Kalma coastal tourist area, to boost tourism, but it is open only to Russians and North Koreans

North Korea starts a coastal resort open only for Russians and North Koreans

A man impersonating the Supreme Leader of North Korea, Kim Jong Un, was seen protesting outside the ongoing NATO Summit in the Netherlands. The international discussions will focus on a variety of issues, including the Israel-Iran war, the Russia-Ukraine war and others. The talks come a day after US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Tel Aviv and Tehran, bringing the 12-day conflict to an end. Staging a satirical protest, the ‘Kim Jong Un’ lookalike said, “I’m coming to see my good friend Donald Trump.” He added that US President Donald Trump is “on the side of autocracy”, adding that he is here to encourage him and “destroy democracy in Europe.”&nbsp;He was carrying a balloon rocket with text reading ‘Trump’s here to negotiate peace – Putin’s peace’ and ‘Europe, my troops are already in Ukraine, where are yours?’ He said, “Donald Trump is now on the side of autocracy, not democracy. So I’m here to encourage him, here to destroy democracy in Europe.”&nbsp;Responding to a question by a reporter, he said, “Me and him, we’re best buddies. And he will not do anything to me. My missiles reach mainland USA. I can hit Hawaii in a couple of hours, I can hit Guam, and I can hit Los Angeles, and even Mar-a-Lago in Florida. So, Trump really is my friend, but he knows that I’m a man to be feared.”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;Trump&#39;s here to destroy democracy in Europe&quot;: ‘Kim Jong Un’ crashes NATO summit in The Hague, stages satirical protest . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONUncut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONUncut</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NATOSummit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NATOSummit</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/natosummit2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#natosummit2025</a> <a href="https://t.co/W987ipE4Oe">pic.twitter.com/W987ipE4Oe</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1937849223107821870?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;NATO Chief Mark Rutte urged allies and industries to do more, better and together, stressing the demand signal NATO is sending to the defence industry. The leaders of the Western defence at the summit in The Hague are set to commit to spending five per cent of national output on defence and related infrastructure.&nbsp;Trump is also set to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the second day of the Summit. When asked about the meeting, he said, “We’ll discuss his difficulties. He’s got a little difficulty. Zelensky, he’s a nice guy. I mean, I’m going to meet him today.”

‘Kim Jong Un’ impersonator was carrying a balloon rocket with text reading ‘Trump’s here to negotiate peace – Putin’s peace’ and ‘Europe, my troops are already in Ukraine, where are yours?’

A man impersonating the Supreme Leader of North Korea, Kim Jong Un, was seen protesting outside the ongoing NATO Summit in the Netherlands. The international discussions will focus on a variety of issues, including the Israel-Iran war, the Russia-Ukraine war and others. The talks come a day after US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Tel Aviv and Tehran, bringing the 12-day conflict to an end. Staging a satirical protest, the ‘Kim Jong Un’ lookalike said, “I’m coming to see my good friend Donald Trump.” He added that US President Donald Trump is “on the side of autocracy”, adding that he is here to encourage him and “destroy democracy in Europe.” He was carrying a balloon rocket with text reading ‘Trump’s here to negotiate peace – Putin’s peace’ and ‘Europe, my troops are already in Ukraine, where are yours?’ He said, “Donald Trump is now on the side of autocracy, not democracy. So I’m here to encourage him, here to destroy democracy in Europe.” Responding to a question by a reporter, he said, “Me and him, we’re best buddies. And he will not do anything to me. My missiles reach mainland USA. I can hit Hawaii in a couple of hours, I can hit Guam, and I can hit Los Angeles, and even Mar-a-Lago in Florida. So, Trump really is my friend, but he knows that I’m a man to be feared.”

‘Kim Jong Un’ impersonator was carrying a balloon rocket with text reading ‘Trump’s here to negotiate peace – Putin’s peace’ and ‘Europe, my troops are already in Ukraine, where are yours?’

‘Kim Jong Un’ at NATO Summit? Man impersonates North Korean leader, stages satirical protest | WATCH

North Korea is known for its tight grip over its citizens. There is a blanket ban on consuming international content, and the state controls what the people watch and hear. It basically wants to cut off all kinds of foreign influence. Controlling every action of the residents has led Kim Jong Un's administration to take some extreme steps. This includes how people express themselves and what words they use.&nbsp;BBC reported that a smartphone smuggled out of the country displayed the ways the state keeps a check on its citizens. The publication found that phones in North Korea are programmed to autocorrect words that are forbidden in the country.&nbsp;For example, the South Korean word "oppa", which means older brother but is also commonly used for friends and even romantic partners, changes to "comrade" when typed. A warning message also pops up - "This word can only be used to describe your siblings."&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musk-black-eye-white-house-farewell-doge-son-x-1748665971348">'Go ahead, punch me...': Musk reveals who gave him the black eye seen at his White House farewell</a>&nbsp;If someone in North Korea is seen using the word "oppa" for someone other than a brother, it would be a hint that they are changing their use based on the South Korean TV shows and films.&nbsp;South Korea is translated to "puppet state", the term North Korea uses for its neighbouring country.&nbsp;<h2>Screenshot sent to the administration every 5 minutes</h2>&nbsp;The phone also takes a screenshot every five minutes, which then goes across to government officials, as a way to keep an eye on the activities. The user has no control over these files. They can be seen listed in a folder, but they cannot open it.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/hand-of-god-ultrasound-protecting-unborn-baby-with-heart-defect-1748575947368">Mother says she saw God protecting her unborn baby with heart condition in ultrasound</a> Having people cut off from the outside world helps the North Korean government to control every narrative. All kinds of South Korean entertainment, including music, TV shows and movies, are banned in the country. Reports suggest that under a 2020 law, anyone found consuming or distributing South Korean media content can be handed the death penalty.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the BBC, such people can be publicly executed. One can escape death, but will have to pay for the crime with extreme labour.&nbsp;Other foreign media are also not allowed. The state controls all the media outlets in the country, and the Korean Central News Agency censors content. There have been instances of individuals being publicly sentenced for accessing and distributing foreign media.&nbsp;

North Korea strictly censors everything the citizens watch and do on their phones. It can control what they are doing on their devices and receive a report every 5 minutes.

North Korea is known for its tight grip over its citizens. There is a blanket ban on consuming international content, and the state controls what the people watch and hear. It basically wants to cut off all kinds of foreign influence. Controlling every action of the residents has led Kim Jong Un's administration to take some extreme steps. This includes how people express themselves and what words they use. BBC reported that a smartphone smuggled out of the country displayed the ways the state keeps a check on its citizens. The publication found that phones in North Korea are programmed to autocorrect words that are forbidden in the country. For example, the South Korean word "oppa", which means older brother but is also commonly used for friends and even romantic partners, changes to "comrade" when typed. A warning message also pops up - "This word can only be used to describe your siblings." Also Read: 'Go ahead, punch me...': Musk reveals who gave him the black eye seen at his White House farewell If someone in North Korea is seen using the word "oppa" for someone other than a brother, it would be a hint that they are changing their use based on the South Korean TV shows and films. South Korea is translated to "puppet state", the term North Korea uses for its neighbouring country. Screenshot sent to the administration every 5 minutes The phone also takes a screenshot every five minutes, which then goes across to government officials, as a way to keep an eye on the activities. The user has no control over these files. They can be seen listed in a folder, but they cannot open it. Also Read: Mother says she saw God protecting her unborn baby with heart condition in ultrasound Having people cut off from the outside world helps the North Korean government to control every narrative. All kinds of South Korean entertainment, including music, TV shows and movies, are banned in the country. Reports suggest that under a 2020 law, anyone found consuming or distributing South Korean media content can be handed the death penalty. According to the BBC, such people can be publicly executed. One can escape death, but will have to pay for the crime with extreme labour. Other foreign media are also not allowed. The state controls all the media outlets in the country, and the Korean Central News Agency censors content. There have been instances of individuals being publicly sentenced for accessing and distributing foreign media.

North Korea strictly censors everything the citizens watch and do on their phones. It can control what they are doing on their devices and receive a report every 5 minutes.

Screenshot every 5 minutes: North Korean smartphones are govt moles and can get you killed

A report from the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) claims that Washington is considering scaling back its military presence in South Korea. However, reports from Seoul indicate that the South Korean Defence Ministry have not received any formal communication from Washington.If the reports were to be true, Washington is reviewing proposals to withdraw approximately 4500 troops from South Korea. There are approximately 28,500 troops stationed in South Korea, part of the United States Forces Korea (USFK). These forces serve as a critical deterrent to the nuclear-armed North Korea. They organise and participate in joint operations and drills as part of trilateral security cooperation between the United States, South Korea and Japan.&nbsp;The report at WSJ also states that Washington is planning to relocate these forces to other parts of the Indo-Pacific region, such as Guam. Even though no concrete official reports confirm this, Trump's rhetoric indicates the same. Trump historically called South Korea a ‘money machine’ in October before his second term at the White House. He insisted back then that if he were to be the next President, South Korea would have to pay billions more to host the American Army.&nbsp;The US &nbsp;and South Korea agreed on a new deal which sees the cost of deploying the US army in South Korea rise by 8.3 per cent to $1.1 billion in 2026.<h2>North Korea's growing threat&nbsp;</h2>A senior researcher of Carnegie Endowment, an international think tank, states that North Korea is in the ‘strongest strategic position in decades’. According to the intelligence report of the United States Defence Intelligence Agency, '2025 Worldwide Threat Assessment', North Korea is most certainly in a position to launch a prolonged war. It has now developed an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capable of reaching the continental United States. Military experts in South Korea believe that it is actively receiving aid from Russia, including military cooperation, SA-22 surface-to-air missile systems, and electronic warfare equipment. It is also reciprocating by providing military and material support to Russia against Ukraine. These two nations also signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership agreement last year. Frequent missile tests and provocative actions have heightened tensions in the region. On the other hand, &nbsp;North Korea’s critical economic and political dependence on China underpins the bilateral relationship between these two. The presence of US military troops acts as a deterrent to hinting to Pyongyang that any aggression would be reciprocated with a strong military response.&nbsp;<h2>South Korea's Military Autonomy</h2>South Korea ranks 5th in the 2025 Global Firepower Index, with advanced weaponry, military readiness, and cybersecurity. It isn't entirely dependent on the US for deterrence. It allocates $222 billion to defence spending.&nbsp;It has a Three-Axis Defence System comprising of Kill Chain preemptive strike strategy, a multi-layered Korea Air and Missile Defence System, and Korea's Massive Punishment and Retaliation doctrine. It also has other advanced weaponry, such as a fleet of F-35 stealth fighters, Hyunmoo-5 ballistic missiles capable of penetrating underground bunkers. It has indigenously developed AI-powered military tech that enables drones and fighter jets to fly autonomously.&nbsp;"Territorial defence can no longer rely solely on human resources,” said Seong Tae Jeong, chief technology officer at the Advanced Defence Science and Technology Research Institute at South Korea’s Agency for Defence DevelopmentSouth Korea and Japan have been working towards less reliance on the US, as Japan's Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru was pushing for an ‘Asian NATO’- a long-term strategy for a viable ally in the region.&nbsp;Despite not having its nuclear arsenal, it comes under the US nuclear umbrella. Seoul does have civil nuclear technology and a missile system capable of delivering a payload if it ever chooses to pursue nuclear ambitions.<h2>Deterrence Dynamics and Risks</h2>Maintaining a credible deterrent in the face of North Korea’s nuclear ambitions remains a challenge for the United States. Indo-Pacific Security Initiative (IPSI), with the support of the Defence Threat Reduction Agency, produced a report on the United States' readiness for deterrence in the region. The report's striking findings indicate that if a conflict starts with China or North Korea, the United States will not be able to deter the other one either North Korea or China from escalating the conflict. What could start from one flash point could escalate into much more. The US-South Korea conflict with North Korea could quickly spill into a Nuclear War. Other flashpoints, like Taiwan, is also facing growing military, diplomatic, and information pressure from China towards its long-term objective of unification. North Korea continues to support its nuclear weapon program by increasing its plutonium and highly enriched uranium, adding to its arsenal.&nbsp;Gen. Xavier T. Brunson, commander of United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command and United States Forces Korea, met with Gen. Ken-ichiro Nagumo, commander of the Japanese Joint Operations Command, on May 20.&nbsp;Brunson reiterated that USFK is committed to maintaining the momentum of trilateral cooperation. "The partnership between the United States, the Republic of Korea, and Japan is evolving beyond confidence-building measures and is maturing into a cornerstone of regional stability", stated Brunson.However, scaling back does not necessarily mean a reduction in deterrence; the US could possibly justify this scaling down by citing the advanced technology and increased military spending of South Korea. Still in South Korea, this reduction might spark the debate of having its own nuclear arsenal and stepping out of the US umbrella. Domestically, this will resonate with the USA's ‘America first’ policy.&nbsp;Nonetheless, this potentially emboldens China and North Korea, destabilising the balance of power in the region. Beijing might pursue its expansionist ambitions and push territorial integrity of Taiwan if the US seems increasingly adamant about its ‘America first’ policy. In a conflict situation, the United States is likely to face operational and strategic challenges in the Indo-Pacific and the Korean Peninsula.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Reports from the Wall Street Journal suggest a scaling down of USFK in South Korea. How could this move potentially alter the power dynamics in the Korean Peninsula 

A report from the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) claims that Washington is considering scaling back its military presence in South Korea. However, reports from Seoul indicate that the South Korean Defence Ministry have not received any formal communication from Washington. If the reports were to be true, Washington is reviewing proposals to withdraw approximately 4500 troops from South Korea. There are approximately 28,500 troops stationed in South Korea, part of the United States Forces Korea (USFK). These forces serve as a critical deterrent to the nuclear-armed North Korea. They organise and participate in joint operations and drills as part of trilateral security cooperation between the United States, South Korea and Japan. The report at WSJ also states that Washington is planning to relocate these forces to other parts of the Indo-Pacific region, such as Guam. Even though no concrete official reports confirm this, Trump's rhetoric indicates the same. Trump historically called South Korea a ‘money machine’ in October before his second term at the White House. He insisted back then that if he were to be the next President, South Korea would have to pay billions more to host the American Army. The US and South Korea agreed on a new deal which sees the cost of deploying the US army in South Korea rise by 8.3 per cent to $1.1 billion in 2026. North Korea's growing threat A senior researcher of Carnegie Endowment, an international think tank, states that North Korea is in the ‘strongest strategic position in decades’. According to the intelligence report of the United States Defence Intelligence Agency, '2025 Worldwide Threat Assessment', North Korea is most certainly in a position to launch a prolonged war. It has now developed an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capable of reaching the continental United States. Military experts in South Korea believe that it is actively receiving aid from Russia, including military cooperation, SA-22 surface-to-air missile systems, and electronic warfare equipment. It is also reciprocating by providing military and material support to Russia against Ukraine. These two nations also signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership agreement last year. Frequent missile tests and provocative actions have heightened tensions in the region. On the other hand, North Korea’s critical economic and political dependence on China underpins the bilateral relationship between these two. The presence of US military troops acts as a deterrent to hinting to Pyongyang that any aggression would be reciprocated with a strong military response. South Korea's Military Autonomy South Korea ranks 5th in the 2025 Global Firepower Index, with advanced weaponry, military readiness, and cybersecurity. It isn't entirely dependent on the US for deterrence. It allocates $222 billion to defence spending. It has a Three-Axis Defence System comprising of Kill Chain preemptive strike strategy, a multi-layered Korea Air and Missile Defence System, and Korea's Massive Punishment and Retaliation doctrine. It also has other advanced weaponry, such as a fleet of F-35 stealth fighters, Hyunmoo-5 ballistic missiles capable of penetrating underground bunkers. It has indigenously developed AI-powered military tech that enables drones and fighter jets to fly autonomously. "Territorial defence can no longer rely solely on human resources,” said Seong Tae Jeong, chief technology officer at the Advanced Defence Science and Technology Research Institute at South Korea’s Agency for Defence Development South Korea and Japan have been working towards less reliance on the US, as Japan's Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru was pushing for an ‘Asian NATO’- a long-term strategy for a viable ally in the region. Despite not having its nuclear arsenal, it comes under the US nuclear umbrella. Seoul does have civil nuclear technology and a missile system capable of delivering a payload if it ever chooses to pursue nuclear ambitions. Deterrence Dynamics and Risks Maintaining a credible deterrent in the face of North Korea’s nuclear ambitions remains a challenge for the United States. Indo-Pacific Security Initiative (IPSI), with the support of the Defence Threat Reduction Agency, produced a report on the United States' readiness for deterrence in the region. The report's striking findings indicate that if a conflict starts with China or North Korea, the United States will not be able to deter the other one either North Korea or China from escalating the conflict. What could start from one flash point could escalate into much more. The US-South Korea conflict with North Korea could quickly spill into a Nuclear War. Other flashpoints, like Taiwan, is also facing growing military, diplomatic, and information pressure from China towards its long-term objective of unification. North Korea continues to support its nuclear weapon program by increasing its plutonium and highly enriched uranium, adding to its arsenal. Gen. Xavier T. Brunson, commander of United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command and United States Forces Korea, met with Gen. Ken-ichiro Nagumo, commander of the Japanese Joint Operations Command, on May 20. Brunson reiterated that USFK is committed to maintaining the momentum of trilateral cooperation. "The partnership between the United States, the Republic of Korea, and Japan is evolving beyond confidence-building measures and is maturing into a cornerstone of regional stability", stated Brunson. However, scaling back does not necessarily mean a reduction in deterrence; the US could possibly justify this scaling down by citing the advanced technology and increased military spending of South Korea. Still in South Korea, this reduction might spark the debate of having its own nuclear arsenal and stepping out of the US umbrella. Domestically, this will resonate with the USA's ‘America first’ policy. Nonetheless, this potentially emboldens China and North Korea, destabilising the balance of power in the region. Beijing might pursue its expansionist ambitions and push territorial integrity of Taiwan if the US seems increasingly adamant about its ‘America first’ policy. In a conflict situation, the United States is likely to face operational and strategic challenges in the Indo-Pacific and the Korean Peninsula.

Reports from the Wall Street Journal suggest a scaling down of USFK in South Korea. How could this move potentially alter the power dynamics in the Korean Peninsula&nbsp;

What would happen if the US scales down its military presence in South Korea, and how could it impact deterrence against North Korea?

North Korea has fired a short-range ballistic missile from the Wonsa area, prompting strong condemnation from South Korea. Seoul labeled the launch a “clear provocation,” raising tensions in the region just ahead of Russia's Victory Day.

South Korea: North Korea fires short-range ballistic missile into East Sea

North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un has emphasized the need to develop new tanks, according to a report by state media. During an inspection of a major tank factory, Kim reviewed various tanks and other weaponry, highlighting the importance of advancing the country’s armored capabilities. The Korean Central News Agency confirmed the visit but did not disclose the name, location, or date of the facility tour.

North Korea: Kim Jong Un visits 'important' tank factory for inspection

#Gravitas North Korea has test fired nuclear capable supersonic missiles from its first-ever warship.

North Korea's new warship test fires nuclear-capable missiles

On April 30, Russia and North Korea commenced the construction of a road bridge over the Tumen River. This aims to enhance their strategic partnership.

Russia constructs river road bridge to North Korea

Kim Jong-un launches North Korea's new 5,000-ton warship 'Choe Hyon', a destroyer equipped with advanced weapons, marking a significant step in strengthening the country's naval capabilities.

North Korea unveils new 'Kim Jong Un style' 5,000-tonne warship

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Screenshot every 5 minutes: North Korean smartphones are govt moles and can get you killed

How the US scaling back troops in South Korea could impact deterrence against North Korea