North Korea fired “several unidentified cruise missiles” off its east coast on Sunday (Jan 28), said South Korea’s military amid a rise in tensions between the two countries. The latest launch comes days after North Korea claimed to have tested its new strategic cruise missile.&nbsp;

<h2>North Korea’s latest missile launch</h2>

“Our military detected several unidentified cruise missiles fired near waters around North Korea's Sinpo area at 8:00 am today,” said the Joint Chiefs of Staff in a statement, as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;North Korea fires cruise missiles near Sinpo area

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Seoul did not specify the number of missiles that were launched, citing an ongoing analysis, but said it had strengthened monitoring and vigilance and was working with the United States to analyse the latest launch.&nbsp;

“While strengthening our monitoring and vigilance, our military has been closely coordinating with the United States to monitor additional signs of North Korea’s provocations,” said JCS, in a statement, as quoted by South Korean news agency Yonhap.&nbsp;

<h2>North Korea denounces US-South Korea drills</h2>

Earlier on Sunday, the North Korean state media KCNA denounced a series of military drills conducted by the US and South Korean troops in recent weeks and warned of “merciless” consequences.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-claims-to-have-tested-new-strategic-cruise-missile-pulhwasal-3-31-683422">North Korea claims to have tested new strategic cruise missile ‘Pulhwasal-3-31’</a>

“The reality that nuclear war exercises against our republic have been going on like crazy since the beginning of the New Year demands that we be fully prepared for a deadly war,” the dispatch said, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Pulhwasal-3-31’</h2>

North Korea’s reported launch on Sunday comes days after it claimed to have tested its new strategic cruise missile dubbed ‘Pulhwasal-3-31’ which it said was currently under development, reported KCNA.&nbsp;

On Thursday (Jan 25), the state media report had also said that the test-firing had no impact on the security of neighbouring countries, and it had “nothing” to do with the regional situation.

The KCNA report also confirmed the South Korean military’s statement which said North Korea fired several cruise missiles towards the Yellow Sea, a day prior.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-multiple-cruise-missiles-towards-yellow-sea-says-south-korea-683042">North Korea fires multiple cruise missiles towards Yellow Sea, says South Korea</a>

Sunday’s launches were North Korea’s third-known launch event of 2024, following a previous round of cruise missile tests on January 24 and January 14, which were the country’s first solid-fuel intermediate-range ballistic missiles.

Pyongyang has ramped up confrontation with Seoul and its ally Washington in the last few months. However, the US and South Korean officials said that they have not spotted any&nbsp;signs of North Korea intending&nbsp;to take imminent military action.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea fired “several unidentified cruise missiles” off its east coast on Sunday (Jan 28), said South Korea’s military amid a rise in tensions between the two countries.

North Korea fired “several unidentified cruise missiles” off its east coast on Sunday (Jan 28), said South Korea’s military amid a rise in tensions between the two countries. The latest launch comes days after North Korea claimed to have tested its new strategic cruise missile. North Korea’s latest missile launch “Our military detected several unidentified cruise missiles fired near waters around North Korea's Sinpo area at 8:00 am today,” said the Joint Chiefs of Staff in a statement, as quoted by AFP. WATCH | North Korea fires cruise missiles near Sinpo area Seoul did not specify the number of missiles that were launched, citing an ongoing analysis, but said it had strengthened monitoring and vigilance and was working with the United States to analyse the latest launch. “While strengthening our monitoring and vigilance, our military has been closely coordinating with the United States to monitor additional signs of North Korea’s provocations,” said JCS, in a statement, as quoted by South Korean news agency Yonhap. North Korea denounces US-South Korea drills Earlier on Sunday, the North Korean state media KCNA denounced a series of military drills conducted by the US and South Korean troops in recent weeks and warned of “merciless” consequences. ALSO READ | North Korea claims to have tested new strategic cruise missile ‘Pulhwasal-3-31’ “The reality that nuclear war exercises against our republic have been going on like crazy since the beginning of the New Year demands that we be fully prepared for a deadly war,” the dispatch said, as per Reuters. ‘Pulhwasal-3-31’ North Korea’s reported launch on Sunday comes days after it claimed to have tested its new strategic cruise missile dubbed ‘Pulhwasal-3-31’ which it said was currently under development, reported KCNA. On Thursday (Jan 25), the state media report had also said that the test-firing had no impact on the security of neighbouring countries, and it had “nothing” to do with the regional situation. The KCNA report also confirmed the South Korean military’s statement which said North Korea fired several cruise missiles towards the Yellow Sea, a day prior. ALSO READ | North Korea fires multiple cruise missiles towards Yellow Sea, says South Korea Sunday’s launches were North Korea’s third-known launch event of 2024, following a previous round of cruise missile tests on January 24 and January 14, which were the country’s first solid-fuel intermediate-range ballistic missiles. Pyongyang has ramped up confrontation with Seoul and its ally Washington in the last few months. However, the US and South Korean officials said that they have not spotted any signs of North Korea intending to take imminent military action. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea fires ‘several’ cruise missiles off its east coast, says South Korea’s military

North Korea has fired several cruise missiles in waters off its east coast, South Korea's military says.

North Korea fires cruise missiles near Sinpno area

A South Korean ruling party lawmaker Bae Hyun-jin was wounded after she was struck on the head by an unidentified assailant on Thursday. Watch this report for more details!

South Korean ruling party MP Bae Hyun-jin attacked in street

South Korea lawmaker attacked; stuck on head, wounded

South Korea’s food ministry has issued a health warning, appealing to people not to consume fried toothpicks, which are made of starch and have a shape similar to that of curly fries after the practice of eating this bizarre food item went viral on social media platforms. 
 
In the video clips shared on TikTok and Instagram, people were seen eating deep-fried starch toothpicks with seasoning like powdered cheese.

These videos attracted thousands of likes and shares on these social media platforms. 
 
“Their safety as food has not been verified,” said the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, in a post shared on social media platform X on Wednesday (Jan 24). “Please do not eat (them),” it added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-parliamentarian-bae-hyun-jin-attacked-rushed-to-hospital-683497">South Korean woman parliamentarian Bae Hyun-jin attacked, rushed to hospital</a>

The post further added, "Starch toothpicks are a hygiene product! The safety of sanitary products is managed according to standards and specifications for ingredients, manufacturing methods, and uses.” 
 
The post added that videos of people eating or frying in oil things like toothpicks and sanitary products have gone viral.

<h2 lang="en-US">Food colouring used on 'crispy' toothpicks</h2>

People have been using food colouring to give a green hue to toothpicks, which are made either from corn starch or sweet potato and are considered biodegradable and environment-friendly. 
 
However, the toothpicks contain an ingredient called sorbitol, which is harmless if consumed in small amounts.

However, it leads to vomiting, inflammation and diarrhoea if overconsumed.

Watch:&nbsp;Tensions in Korean Peninsula: South Korea's evacuation orders for Yeonpyeong Island

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The toothpicks, which are generally used in restaurants in South Korea, are also used by people to eat finger foods.

In South Korea, online eating shows like “Mukbang”, in which people are shown eating unusual dishes or excessive amounts of food, are popular. 
 
The government of South Korea in 2018 tried to impose regulations on these videos to stop them from influencing people to eat bizarre stuff and harming public health. 
 
In one of the videos shared by a TikTok user, he was seen crunching up fried toothpicks and saying, “It’s very crispy”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

South Korea’s food ministry has issued a health warning, appealing to people not to consume fried toothpicks, which are made of starch and have a shape similar to that of curly fries after the practice of eating this bizarre food item went viral on social media platforms.

South Korea’s food ministry has issued a health warning, appealing to people not to consume fried toothpicks, which are made of starch and have a shape similar to that of curly fries after the practice of eating this bizarre food item went viral on social media platforms. In the video clips shared on TikTok and Instagram, people were seen eating deep-fried starch toothpicks with seasoning like powdered cheese. These videos attracted thousands of likes and shares on these social media platforms. “Their safety as food has not been verified,” said the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, in a post shared on social media platform X on Wednesday (Jan 24). “Please do not eat (them),” it added. Also read: South Korean woman parliamentarian Bae Hyun-jin attacked, rushed to hospital The post further added, "Starch toothpicks are a hygiene product! The safety of sanitary products is managed according to standards and specifications for ingredients, manufacturing methods, and uses.” The post added that videos of people eating or frying in oil things like toothpicks and sanitary products have gone viral. Food colouring used on 'crispy' toothpicks People have been using food colouring to give a green hue to toothpicks, which are made either from corn starch or sweet potato and are considered biodegradable and environment-friendly. However, the toothpicks contain an ingredient called sorbitol, which is harmless if consumed in small amounts. However, it leads to vomiting, inflammation and diarrhoea if overconsumed. Watch: Tensions in Korean Peninsula: South Korea's evacuation orders for Yeonpyeong Island The toothpicks, which are generally used in restaurants in South Korea, are also used by people to eat finger foods. In South Korea, online eating shows like “Mukbang”, in which people are shown eating unusual dishes or excessive amounts of food, are popular. The government of South Korea in 2018 tried to impose regulations on these videos to stop them from influencing people to eat bizarre stuff and harming public health. In one of the videos shared by a TikTok user, he was seen crunching up fried toothpicks and saying, “It’s very crispy”. (With inputs from agencies)

'Don't eat fried toothpicks': South Korea warns citizens against weird social media trend

South Korean lawmaker Bae Hyun-jin struck on head, wounded

North Korea claims to have tested its new strategic cruise missile on Wednesday (Jan 24), the state media KCNA&nbsp;reported on Thursday (Jan 25). This comes a day after the South Korean military said Pyongyang fired several cruise missiles towards the Yellow Sea.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, on Thursday called for “levelling up” the living standards and called failure to provide people with basic living necessities, including food, a “serious political issue,” reported the state media.&nbsp;

<h2>North Korea&nbsp;says it tested ‘Pulhwasal-3-31’</h2>

North Korea claims to have tested a missile dubbed ‘Pulhwasal-3-31’ which it said was currently under development, reported the state media, saying the test-firing had no impact on the security of neighbouring countries, and it had “nothing” to do with the regional situation.

WATCH |&nbsp;North Korea says it tested new strategic cruise missile 'Pulhwasal-3-31'

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However, the KCNA did not specify the number of missiles tested. The report confirmed the South Korean military’s statement which said North Korea fired several cruise missiles towards the Yellow Sea on Wednesday.&nbsp;

“Our military detected several cruise missiles launched by North Korea towards the Yellow Sea at around 7:00 am today,” said the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in a statement.

Seoul’s defence minister, Shin Won-sik, condemned the launches as a serious threat to his country. Meanwhile, the KCNA, citing The Missile Administration, said that the test was part of the process of updating the country’s weapon system.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-multiple-cruise-missiles-towards-yellow-sea-says-south-korea-683042">North Korea fires multiple cruise missiles towards Yellow Sea, says South Korea</a>

On Thursday, South Korea also announced that it was beginning the mass production of medium-altitude reconnaissance drones and aims to deploy them in 2027&nbsp;in a bid to improve surveillance capabilities and contribute to defence exports.

<h2>Kim calls for ‘levelling up’ living standards</h2>

While the North Korean leadership is spending money on missiles, Pyongyang, over recent decades has suffered serious food shortages, including a famine in the 1990s, and now Kim has called for finding ways to improve economic development.&nbsp;

Kim’s remarks were made in a speech while discussing regional development at a meeting of the country’s ruling party, held between Tuesday (Jan 23) and Wednesday, reported the KCNA.&nbsp;

Notably, Pyongyang has repeatedly faced criticism due to Kim’s prioritising the military and its banned weapons programmes over adequately providing for its people.&nbsp;

South Korea’s unification minister, who is charged with handling relations with its neighbour, described the food situation in North Korea as “still bad” last year, despite an uptick in trade with China.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-north-korea-in-a-public-trial-puts-2-teens-under-12-years-of-hard-labour-for-watching-k-pop-681813">North Korea teens sent to 12 years of hard labour for watching K-pop</a>

However, during a recent party meeting, Kim asked his party to bring about a swift change to raise the living standards of people throughout the country, reported KCNA.&nbsp;

“Today, failure to satisfactorily provide the people in local areas with basic living necessities including condiments, foodstuff and consumption goods has arisen as a serious political issue that our party and government can never sidestep,” said Kim, as quoted by KCNA.&nbsp;

He also called for closing the gaps between urban and rural areas through its new regional development policy. “At present, it is a very urgent immediate task for levelling up the material and cultural living standards of the regional people,” said the North Korean leader.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

North Korea claims to have tested its new strategic cruise missile on Wednesday (Jan 24), the state media KCNA reported on Thursday (Jan 25). This comes a day after the South Korean military said Pyongyang fired several cruise missiles towards the Yellow Sea.

North Korea claims to have tested its new strategic cruise missile on Wednesday (Jan 24), the state media KCNA reported on Thursday (Jan 25). This comes a day after the South Korean military said Pyongyang fired several cruise missiles towards the Yellow Sea. Meanwhile, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, on Thursday called for “levelling up” the living standards and called failure to provide people with basic living necessities, including food, a “serious political issue,” reported the state media. North Korea says it tested ‘Pulhwasal-3-31’ North Korea claims to have tested a missile dubbed ‘Pulhwasal-3-31’ which it said was currently under development, reported the state media, saying the test-firing had no impact on the security of neighbouring countries, and it had “nothing” to do with the regional situation. WATCH | North Korea says it tested new strategic cruise missile 'Pulhwasal-3-31' However, the KCNA did not specify the number of missiles tested. The report confirmed the South Korean military’s statement which said North Korea fired several cruise missiles towards the Yellow Sea on Wednesday. “Our military detected several cruise missiles launched by North Korea towards the Yellow Sea at around 7:00 am today,” said the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in a statement. Seoul’s defence minister, Shin Won-sik, condemned the launches as a serious threat to his country. Meanwhile, the KCNA, citing The Missile Administration, said that the test was part of the process of updating the country’s weapon system. ALSO READ | North Korea fires multiple cruise missiles towards Yellow Sea, says South Korea On Thursday, South Korea also announced that it was beginning the mass production of medium-altitude reconnaissance drones and aims to deploy them in 2027 in a bid to improve surveillance capabilities and contribute to defence exports. Kim calls for ‘levelling up’ living standards While the North Korean leadership is spending money on missiles, Pyongyang, over recent decades has suffered serious food shortages, including a famine in the 1990s, and now Kim has called for finding ways to improve economic development. Kim’s remarks were made in a speech while discussing regional development at a meeting of the country’s ruling party, held between Tuesday (Jan 23) and Wednesday, reported the KCNA. Notably, Pyongyang has repeatedly faced criticism due to Kim’s prioritising the military and its banned weapons programmes over adequately providing for its people. South Korea’s unification minister, who is charged with handling relations with its neighbour, described the food situation in North Korea as “still bad” last year, despite an uptick in trade with China. ALSO READ | North Korea teens sent to 12 years of hard labour for watching K-pop However, during a recent party meeting, Kim asked his party to bring about a swift change to raise the living standards of people throughout the country, reported KCNA. “Today, failure to satisfactorily provide the people in local areas with basic living necessities including condiments, foodstuff and consumption goods has arisen as a serious political issue that our party and government can never sidestep,” said Kim, as quoted by KCNA. He also called for closing the gaps between urban and rural areas through its new regional development policy. “At present, it is a very urgent immediate task for levelling up the material and cultural living standards of the regional people,” said the North Korean leader. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea claims to have tested new strategic cruise missile ‘Pulhwasal-3-31’

A member of parliament from the ruling People Power Party in South Korea, Bae Hyun-jin, was 'attacked' on a street in Seoul's Gangnam district. Reports indicated that she was struck in the head with an object by an unidentified assailant, resulting in her hospitalisation for injuries and bleeding. The attacker was swiftly arrested at the scene, media reports said.&nbsp;

This incident follows a previous attack on the leader of the opposition Democratic Party, Lee Jae-myung, who was stabbed in the neck earlier in January and later underwent surgery.

The arrest of the suspect took place at the crime scene. As per South Korea's local news agency, the perpetrator told the police authorities that he was 15 years of age.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-homeless-californians-found-living-in-underground-caves-with-makeshift-furnishings-683514">US: Homeless Californians found living in underground caves with makeshift furnishings</a>

Describing the moments leading up to the attack, which resulted in non-life-threatening injuries to the parliamentarian, the reports said that before stabbing her the attacker asked Bae her name.

A small stone was reportedly used to carry out the attack, as per reports. The motive behind the attack is not clear, and not much is known about the suspect.&nbsp;

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People Party spokesman Jung Hee-yong in a statement said, "We can't help but feel saddened by (Thursday's) attack."

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/argentinas-labour-union-holds-12-hour-long-strike-683494">Argentina's labour union holds 12-hour-long strike</a>

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"We urge a thorough investigation and stern action against the perpetrator," the representative added.&nbsp;As per latest media reports,&nbsp;party's interim leader Han Dong-hoon&nbsp;said that Bae was recovering at the hospital.&nbsp;

The ruling party MP was taken to Seoul's Soon Chun Hyang University Hospital, reported AFP. She was struck on the back of her head.

<h2>Murder rate in South Korea</h2>

In 2021, official statistics indicated that South Korea maintains a good level of safety, boasting a low murder rate of 1.3 per 100,000 people. This figure stands&nbsp;below the global average, which is reported at six homicide deaths per 100,000 people.

(With inputs from agencies)

A member of parliament from the ruling People Power Party in South Korea, Bae Hyun-jin, was 'attacked' on a street in Seoul's Gangnam district. Reports indicated that she was struck in the head with an object by an unidentified assailant, resulting in her hospitalisation for injuries and bleeding.

A member of parliament from the ruling People Power Party in South Korea, Bae Hyun-jin, was 'attacked' on a street in Seoul's Gangnam district. Reports indicated that she was struck in the head with an object by an unidentified assailant, resulting in her hospitalisation for injuries and bleeding. The attacker was swiftly arrested at the scene, media reports said. This incident follows a previous attack on the leader of the opposition Democratic Party, Lee Jae-myung, who was stabbed in the neck earlier in January and later underwent surgery. The arrest of the suspect took place at the crime scene. As per South Korea's local news agency, the perpetrator told the police authorities that he was 15 years of age. Also Read | US: Homeless Californians found living in underground caves with makeshift furnishings Describing the moments leading up to the attack, which resulted in non-life-threatening injuries to the parliamentarian, the reports said that before stabbing her the attacker asked Bae her name. A small stone was reportedly used to carry out the attack, as per reports. The motive behind the attack is not clear, and not much is known about the suspect. Also Read | Israeli hostages impregnated by Hamas terrorists to receive financial, psychological help: Report People Party spokesman Jung Hee-yong in a statement said, "We can't help but feel saddened by (Thursday's) attack." Watch | Argentina's labour union holds 12-hour-long strike × "We urge a thorough investigation and stern action against the perpetrator," the representative added. As per latest media reports, party's interim leader Han Dong-hoon said that Bae was recovering at the hospital. The ruling party MP was taken to Seoul's Soon Chun Hyang University Hospital, reported AFP. She was struck on the back of her head. Murder rate in South Korea In 2021, official statistics indicated that South Korea maintains a good level of safety, boasting a low murder rate of 1.3 per 100,000 people. This figure stands below the global average, which is reported at six homicide deaths per 100,000 people. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korean woman parliamentarian Bae Hyun-jin attacked, rushed to hospital

North Korea announced on Thursday that it successfully conducted the first flight test of a new cruise missile 'Pulhwasal-3-31', which it claimed was a “strategic” weapon capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

North Korea tests new missile | Blinken's visit to Africa | WION Speed News

Several cruise missiles were fired by North Korea towards the Yellow Sea on Wednesday (Jan 24), said Seoul's military, the latest in a series of tension-raising steps being taken by the nuclear-armed state.

The testing of weapons was accelerated by Pyongyang in the new year, which included tests of what the country called an "underwater nuclear weapon system" as well as a solid-fuelled hypersonic ballistic missile.

"Our military detected several cruise missiles launched by North Korea towards the Yellow Sea at around 7:00 am today," said the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in a statement.

"The detailed specifications are being closely analysed by South Korean and US intelligence authorities," the statement added.

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Unlike the country's ballistic counterparts, cruise missile testing is not banned under the current sanctions imposed by the United Nations over Pyongyang. Cruise missiles are generally jet-propelled and fly at a lower altitude in comparison to other more sophisticated ballistic missiles, which makes them harder to intercept and detect. &nbsp;

The latest missile launch by North Korea comes as South Korea has been carrying out a 10-day special forces infiltration drill off its east coast, "in light of serious security situations" with the North, which runs till Thursday (Jan 25), as per the South's navy.

"We will achieve our mission to infiltrate deep into the enemy's territory and neutralize them completely under any circumstances," said the drill's commander in a statement.

<h2>North Korea-South Korea's deteriorating ties&nbsp;</h2>

In recent months, there has been a sharp deterioration in ties between the two countries, with the two sides carrying out live-fire drills along the border, finalising key tension-reducing agreements and increasing frontier security.&nbsp;

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un last week declared South Korea as the country's "principal enemy" and said that a war can break out even if there is a territorial infringement of 0.001 mm.

Watch:&nbsp;Japan, US, South Korea share real-time data on North Korea's missiles&nbsp;

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The North Korean leader further said that Pyongyang will not recognise the de facto maritime border between the two countries - the Northern Limit Line - and appealed for constitutional changes which permitted the North to "occupy" Seoul in war, said the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Meanwhile, South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol informed his cabinet that if the nuclear-armed North adopts any provocative move, Seoul's response will be "multiple times stronger", while emphasising his military's "overwhelming response capabilities".

At North Korea's year-end policy meetings, Kim threatened to launch a nuclear attack on&nbsp;South and appealed for a build-up of the military arsenal as any armed conflict, he warned, can "break out any time".

(With inputs from agencies)

Several cruise missiles were fired by North Korea towards the Yellow Sea on Wednesday (Jan 24), said Seoul's military, the latest in a series of tension-raising steps being taken by the nuclear-armed state.

Several cruise missiles were fired by North Korea towards the Yellow Sea on Wednesday (Jan 24), said Seoul's military, the latest in a series of tension-raising steps being taken by the nuclear-armed state. The testing of weapons was accelerated by Pyongyang in the new year, which included tests of what the country called an "underwater nuclear weapon system" as well as a solid-fuelled hypersonic ballistic missile. "Our military detected several cruise missiles launched by North Korea towards the Yellow Sea at around 7:00 am today," said the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in a statement. "The detailed specifications are being closely analysed by South Korean and US intelligence authorities," the statement added. Also read: North Korea teens, in a public trial, put under 12 years of hard labour for watching K-pop Unlike the country's ballistic counterparts, cruise missile testing is not banned under the current sanctions imposed by the United Nations over Pyongyang. Cruise missiles are generally jet-propelled and fly at a lower altitude in comparison to other more sophisticated ballistic missiles, which makes them harder to intercept and detect. The latest missile launch by North Korea comes as South Korea has been carrying out a 10-day special forces infiltration drill off its east coast, "in light of serious security situations" with the North, which runs till Thursday (Jan 25), as per the South's navy. "We will achieve our mission to infiltrate deep into the enemy's territory and neutralize them completely under any circumstances," said the drill's commander in a statement. North Korea-South Korea's deteriorating ties In recent months, there has been a sharp deterioration in ties between the two countries, with the two sides carrying out live-fire drills along the border, finalising key tension-reducing agreements and increasing frontier security. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un last week declared South Korea as the country's "principal enemy" and said that a war can break out even if there is a territorial infringement of 0.001 mm. Watch: Japan, US, South Korea share real-time data on North Korea's missiles The North Korean leader further said that Pyongyang will not recognise the de facto maritime border between the two countries - the Northern Limit Line - and appealed for constitutional changes which permitted the North to "occupy" Seoul in war, said the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Meanwhile, South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol informed his cabinet that if the nuclear-armed North adopts any provocative move, Seoul's response will be "multiple times stronger", while emphasising his military's "overwhelming response capabilities". At North Korea's year-end policy meetings, Kim threatened to launch a nuclear attack on South and appealed for a build-up of the military arsenal as any armed conflict, he warned, can "break out any time". (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea fires multiple cruise missiles towards Yellow Sea, says South Korea

Hidden camera footage appearing to show South Korea’s First Lady accepting a Dior bag as a gift has plunged President Yoon Suk Yeol and his party into a controversy that may threaten their bid to reclaim a parliamentary majority in April’s election.

South Korea's first lady caught accepting Dior bag as a gift

As leader Kim Jong Un continues to inflame tensions on the peninsula, North Korea's 100-foot-tall Arch of Reunification, erected in Pyongyang to honor friendly ties with the South, vanished from the capital's skyline sometime over the weekend, a report claims.

North Korea says Arch of Reunification disappeared from Pyongyang | World News | WION

North Korean reunification monument goes missing; Kim Jong Un escalates rivalry with South

Tensions in the Korean peninsula are flaring up. Kim calls the South "primary foe and invariable principal enemy". He is also seeking a change in the constitution. Is North Korea-South Korea unification even possible? Watch this video for all details.

Is North Korea-South Korea unification possible? Here's what Kim Jong Un says

South Korea's government recently revealed new data that shows the number of Koreans studying in China has dropped dramatically in the past six years, shrinking by nearly 60,000 students.

Number of students studying in China drops by 78% over 6 years

South Korea on Saturday (Jan 20) charged Seoul's chief of police with contributing through negligence to the deadly Halloween crowd crush in Seoul in 2022​ that claimed the lives of over 160 people, according to the prosecutors.

Seoul Western District Prosecutors Office released a statement saying that Kim Kwang-ho, chief of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, was charged with professional negligence resulting in injury or death.

As the head of the SMPA, he "did not take necessary measures, such as deploying sufficient police forces and ensuring proper command and supervision" on the day of the incident, said the statement.

Kim is the highest-ranking police official to go on trial over the tragic incident and was charged without detention.

Last year in the month of January, a special police investigation team had forwarded rescue and district offices to the prosecution over their alleged involvement in the government's mishandling of the incident.

The heads of the police station in Seoul's Yongsan district, which includes Itaewon, and the Yongsan Ward office were charged by the prosecutors but for over a year, they had not come to a decision over charging Kim.

Friday's statement said Kim, "along with the chief of the Yongsan Police Station and the head of the Yongsan Ward office who are currently on trial, collectively caused the deaths of 158 individuals and injuries to 312 individuals as a result of professional negligence".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-north-korea-in-a-public-trial-puts-2-teens-under-12-years-of-hard-labour-for-watching-k-pop-681813">North Korea teens, in a public trial, put under 12 years of hard labour for watching K-pop</a>

The victims' families expressed their dismay at the prosecution's prolonged decision-making process prior to filing charges against Kim.

"Chief Kim must immediately step down from his position and face trial," the families said in a statement.

"President Yoon Suk Yeol must dismiss Kim immediately."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Explained | How is a crowd crush different from a stampede?

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<h2>South Korea Halloween crush</h2>

Celebrations turned into chaos on Oct 29, 2022, as at least 151 people were killed and more than 100 were injured in South Korea when a gathering of primarily young people celebrating Halloween festivities in Seoul became trapped and crushed.&nbsp;

The Seoul police chief, Seoul mayor and the country's interior minister issued public apologies after the incident, admitting to the collective failure. The South Korean media reported that the Police did not respond to 7 of the 11 calls made by members of the public to report the overcrowding of the entertainment district, a revelation that stoked anger against the authorities all across South Korea.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

South Korea on Saturday (Jan 20) charged Seoul's chief of police with contributing through negligence to the deadly Halloween crowd crush in Seoul in 2022 that claimed the lives of over 160 people, according to the prosecutors.

South Korea on Saturday (Jan 20) charged Seoul's chief of police with contributing through negligence to the deadly Halloween crowd crush in Seoul in 2022 that claimed the lives of over 160 people, according to the prosecutors. Seoul Western District Prosecutors Office released a statement saying that Kim Kwang-ho, chief of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, was charged with professional negligence resulting in injury or death. As the head of the SMPA, he "did not take necessary measures, such as deploying sufficient police forces and ensuring proper command and supervision" on the day of the incident, said the statement. Kim is the highest-ranking police official to go on trial over the tragic incident and was charged without detention. Last year in the month of January, a special police investigation team had forwarded rescue and district offices to the prosecution over their alleged involvement in the government's mishandling of the incident. The heads of the police station in Seoul's Yongsan district, which includes Itaewon, and the Yongsan Ward office were charged by the prosecutors but for over a year, they had not come to a decision over charging Kim. Friday's statement said Kim, "along with the chief of the Yongsan Police Station and the head of the Yongsan Ward office who are currently on trial, collectively caused the deaths of 158 individuals and injuries to 312 individuals as a result of professional negligence". Also read: North Korea teens, in a public trial, put under 12 years of hard labour for watching K-pop The victims' families expressed their dismay at the prosecution's prolonged decision-making process prior to filing charges against Kim. "Chief Kim must immediately step down from his position and face trial," the families said in a statement. "President Yoon Suk Yeol must dismiss Kim immediately." WATCH | Explained | How is a crowd crush different from a stampede? × South Korea Halloween crush Celebrations turned into chaos on Oct 29, 2022, as at least 151 people were killed and more than 100 were injured in South Korea when a gathering of primarily young people celebrating Halloween festivities in Seoul became trapped and crushed. The Seoul police chief, Seoul mayor and the country's interior minister issued public apologies after the incident, admitting to the collective failure. The South Korean media reported that the Police did not respond to 7 of the 11 calls made by members of the public to report the overcrowding of the entertainment district, a revelation that stoked anger against the authorities all across South Korea. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea Halloween crush: Seoul police chief charged over deadly incident

North Korea has tested another nuclear weapon system, an underwater attack drone called the "Haeil-5-23". It was tested in waters off the east coast to mark its protest against this week's joint military drills by South Korea, the U.S., and Japan. The weapons test comes after Kim Jong Un declared South Korea is number one enemy and threatened to go to war if he feels threatened.

Gravitas: North Korea tests undersea nuclear armageddon | Will Kim start war with South Korea?

Tensions continue to spiral on the Korean peninsula. North Korea claims that it conducted a test of its underwater nuclear weapons system. Test of the Haeil-5-23 system was carried out in the waters off North Korea's eastern coast.

Pyongyang's nuclear-capable underwater drone

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Monday called for the constitution to be changed to ensure that South Korea is seen as the "primary foe" and warned his country did not intend to avoid war should it happen. North Korea should also plan for "Completely occupying, subjugating and reclaiming" South Korea in the event of a war, and South Koreans should also no longer be referred to as fellow countrymen, Kim added, calling for the severing of all inter-Korean communication.

North Korea's Kim Jong calls for South to be seen as 'primary foe'

Is North Korea preparing for war in 2024? North Korea's regime is once again ratcheting up its war rhetoric against South Korea and the US. This time, however, some analysts warn the threat goes beyond the usual bluster from Kim Jong-Un.

Kim Jong-Un brands South Korea primary foe & rules out unity

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Monday called for the constitution to be changed to ensure that South Korea is seen as the "primary foe" and warned his country did not intend to avoid war should it happen.

North Korea's Kim calls for South Korea to be seen as 'the most hostile state'

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for the country’s constitution to be changed to ensure that South Korea is defined as “the most hostile state,” reported the state media outlet KCNA on Tuesday (Jan 16). This comes after North Korea abolished agencies that oversaw cooperation and reunification with the South.&nbsp;

<h2>‘The most hostile state’</h2>

In a speech at the Supreme People’s Assembly – North Korea’s rubber-stamp parliament – the country’s leader made a number of remarks including a warning that he did not intend to avoid war should it happen.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;North Korea's Kim Jong calls for South to be seen as 'primary foe'

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Kim, according to KCNA, called for the framing of new legal measures to define South Korea as “the most hostile state”.

Kim also sought constitutional changes allowing the North to “occupy” Seoul in war.&nbsp;

“In my opinion, we can specify in our constitution the issue of completely occupying, subjugating and reclaiming the ROK (Republic of Korea) and annex it as a part of the territory of our Republic in case a war breaks out on the Korean peninsula,” said the North Korean leader.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-brands-seoul-principal-enemy-on-weapons-factory-tour-678716">North Korean leader Kim brands Seoul ‘principal enemy’ during weapons factory tour</a>

He also went on to threaten South Korea with war if “even 0.001 mm” of the North’s territory is violated. “If the Republic of Korea violates even 0.001 mm of our territorial land, air and waters, it will be considered a war provocation.”&nbsp;

“We don’t want war but we have no intention of avoiding it,” said Kim as quoted by KCNA.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Primary foe’</h2>

The strongly-worded speech came after Pyongyang abolished agencies that oversaw cooperation and reunification indicating that it was no longer interested in seeking reconciliation with South Korea.&nbsp;

According to the state media, three organisations dealing with unification and inter-Korean tourism would also be shut down.&nbsp;

Kim said that he had concluded that unification with the South was no longer possible and accused South Korea of seeking the collapse of his regime and unification by absorption.&nbsp;

He also said Pyongyang would not recognise the two countries’ de facto maritime border, the Northern Limit Line (NLL), reported KCNA.&nbsp;

In what could be seen as a symbolic move, Kim has vowed to get rid of the massive monument to the possible reunification of the Korean Peninsula that his father constructed in Pyongyang after calling it an “eyesore”.&nbsp;

According to Kim, the constitution should be amended to educate North Koreans that South Korea is a “primary foe and invariable principal enemy”.&nbsp;

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Cho Han-bum, a researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification told AFP that the North Korean system has long been grounded on the idea of reunification, an unachieved wish of the country’s founding leader and Kim’s grandfather Kim II Sung.&nbsp;

“Now he is denying everything that his predecessors have done,” said Cho.&nbsp;

<h2>South Korea to not back down</h2>

Following threats by Kim, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol told his cabinet on Tuesday (Jan 16) that should North Korea carry out a provocation, Seoul would hit back with a response “multiple times stronger”.&nbsp;

“If North Korea carries out a provocation, we will retaliate multiple times stronger,” said Yoon, in a meeting broadcast on television, pointing to their military’s “overwhelming response capabilities.”&nbsp;

He also went on to call Kim’s rejection of the NLL “a political provocative act to crack South Korea and make our people nervous.”

Earlier this month, North Korea fired around 200 artillery rounds near the disputed maritime border.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for the country’s constitution to be changed to ensure that South Korea is defined as “the most hostile state,” reported the state media outlet KCNA on Tuesday (Jan 16).

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for the country’s constitution to be changed to ensure that South Korea is defined as “the most hostile state,” reported the state media outlet KCNA on Tuesday (Jan 16). This comes after North Korea abolished agencies that oversaw cooperation and reunification with the South. ‘The most hostile state’ In a speech at the Supreme People’s Assembly – North Korea’s rubber-stamp parliament – the country’s leader made a number of remarks including a warning that he did not intend to avoid war should it happen. WATCH | North Korea's Kim Jong calls for South to be seen as 'primary foe' Kim, according to KCNA, called for the framing of new legal measures to define South Korea as “the most hostile state”. Kim also sought constitutional changes allowing the North to “occupy” Seoul in war. “In my opinion, we can specify in our constitution the issue of completely occupying, subjugating and reclaiming the ROK (Republic of Korea) and annex it as a part of the territory of our Republic in case a war breaks out on the Korean peninsula,” said the North Korean leader. ALSO READ | North Korean leader Kim brands Seoul ‘principal enemy’ during weapons factory tour He also went on to threaten South Korea with war if “even 0.001 mm” of the North’s territory is violated. “If the Republic of Korea violates even 0.001 mm of our territorial land, air and waters, it will be considered a war provocation.” “We don’t want war but we have no intention of avoiding it,” said Kim as quoted by KCNA. ‘Primary foe’ The strongly-worded speech came after Pyongyang abolished agencies that oversaw cooperation and reunification indicating that it was no longer interested in seeking reconciliation with South Korea. According to the state media, three organisations dealing with unification and inter-Korean tourism would also be shut down. Kim said that he had concluded that unification with the South was no longer possible and accused South Korea of seeking the collapse of his regime and unification by absorption. He also said Pyongyang would not recognise the two countries’ de facto maritime border, the Northern Limit Line (NLL), reported KCNA. In what could be seen as a symbolic move, Kim has vowed to get rid of the massive monument to the possible reunification of the Korean Peninsula that his father constructed in Pyongyang after calling it an “eyesore”. According to Kim, the constitution should be amended to educate North Koreans that South Korea is a “primary foe and invariable principal enemy”. ALSO READ | North Korea to welcome Russian tourists for first time since harsh Covid restrictions Cho Han-bum, a researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification told AFP that the North Korean system has long been grounded on the idea of reunification, an unachieved wish of the country’s founding leader and Kim’s grandfather Kim II Sung. “Now he is denying everything that his predecessors have done,” said Cho. South Korea to not back down Following threats by Kim, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol told his cabinet on Tuesday (Jan 16) that should North Korea carry out a provocation, Seoul would hit back with a response “multiple times stronger”. “If North Korea carries out a provocation, we will retaliate multiple times stronger,” said Yoon, in a meeting broadcast on television, pointing to their military’s “overwhelming response capabilities.” He also went on to call Kim’s rejection of the NLL “a political provocative act to crack South Korea and make our people nervous.” Earlier this month, North Korea fired around 200 artillery rounds near the disputed maritime border. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea’s Kim calls for South Korea to be seen as ‘the most hostile state’, threatens war

North Korea's Kim Jong says, 'no intention of avoiding war with South Korea'

North Korean leader Kim warns of a war with South Korea

North Korea on Monday (Jan 15) announced it had tested a new solid-fuel immediate-range hypersonic missile, according to state news agency KCNA, a day after South Korea said its arch-rival had fired an unidentified ballistic missile towards the East Sea.&nbsp;

Pyongyang said the missile launch was aimed at testing the reliability of new multi-stage, high-trust solid fuel engines and that it did not pose a security threat to the neighbouring countries.&nbsp;

"The test-fire was aimed at verifying the gliding and manoeuvring characteristics of intermediate-range hypersonic manoeuvrable controlled warhead and the reliability of newly developed multi-stage high-thrust solid-fuel engines. The test fire was successfully conducted," said KCNA.&nbsp;

"The launch never affected the security of any neighbouring country and had nothing to do with the regional situation," it added.&nbsp;

The state agency did not mention if leader Kim Jong-Un was present at the site to oversee the launch.&nbsp;

According to reports, the testing of the hypersonic missile was the first launch by Pyongyang this year which is now attempting to develop weapons with enhanced precision and ability to better penetrate missile defences.&nbsp;

The launch also comes after Kim branded South Korea his principal enemy and warned he would not hesitate to annihilate Seoul, as he toured major weapons factories last week.

"The historic time has come at last when we should define as a state most hostile toward the Democratic People's Republic of Korea the entity called the Republic of Korea (South Korea)," said Kim.&nbsp;

Also watch:&nbsp;Why did North Korea's Kim Jong Un not celebrate his 40th birthday?

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<h2>What did S Korea claim?</h2>

On Sunday (Jan 14), the South Korean military said its neighbour had fired an unidentified ballistic missile towards the East Sea days after it staged live-fire exercises near the tense maritime border.

"North Korea fires unidentified ballistic missile towards East Sea," Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement, referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan. He, however, gave no further details.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-brands-seoul-principal-enemy-on-weapons-factory-tour-678716">North Korean leader Kim brands Seoul ‘principal enemy’ during weapons factory tour</a>

Japan, meanwhile, said that an object, potentially a ballistic missile, was from North Korea and warned vessels to take care.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea on Monday (Jan 15) announced it had tested a new solid-fuel immediate-range hypersonic missile, according to state news agency KCNA, a day after South Korea said its arch-rival had fired an unidentified ballistic missile towards the East Sea.

North Korea on Monday (Jan 15) announced it had tested a new solid-fuel immediate-range hypersonic missile, according to state news agency KCNA, a day after South Korea said its arch-rival had fired an unidentified ballistic missile towards the East Sea. Pyongyang said the missile launch was aimed at testing the reliability of new multi-stage, high-trust solid fuel engines and that it did not pose a security threat to the neighbouring countries. "The test-fire was aimed at verifying the gliding and manoeuvring characteristics of intermediate-range hypersonic manoeuvrable controlled warhead and the reliability of newly developed multi-stage high-thrust solid-fuel engines. The test fire was successfully conducted," said KCNA. "The launch never affected the security of any neighbouring country and had nothing to do with the regional situation," it added. The state agency did not mention if leader Kim Jong-Un was present at the site to oversee the launch. According to reports, the testing of the hypersonic missile was the first launch by Pyongyang this year which is now attempting to develop weapons with enhanced precision and ability to better penetrate missile defences. The launch also comes after Kim branded South Korea his principal enemy and warned he would not hesitate to annihilate Seoul, as he toured major weapons factories last week. "The historic time has come at last when we should define as a state most hostile toward the Democratic People's Republic of Korea the entity called the Republic of Korea (South Korea)," said Kim. Also watch: Why did North Korea's Kim Jong Un not celebrate his 40th birthday? What did S Korea claim? On Sunday (Jan 14), the South Korean military said its neighbour had fired an unidentified ballistic missile towards the East Sea days after it staged live-fire exercises near the tense maritime border. "North Korea fires unidentified ballistic missile towards East Sea," Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement, referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan. He, however, gave no further details. Also read: North Korean leader Kim brands Seoul ‘principal enemy’ during weapons factory tour Japan, meanwhile, said that an object, potentially a ballistic missile, was from North Korea and warned vessels to take care. (With inputs from agencies)

A day after Seoul's claims, N Korea says it fired solid-fuel hypersonic missile

"Parasite" director Boon Joon-ho and other veteran members of South Korea's entertainment industry urged authorities to thoroughly investigate the case of actor Lee Sun-Kyun.

South Korea: Death of ‘Parasite’ Actor Lee Sun-Kyun's sparks protests

Lee Jae-myung, the South Korean opposition leader, who was recently stabbed, was targetted by a well-prepared assailant who wanted to prevent him from becoming president. The entire incident was properly planned, police said on Wednesday (Jan 10).&nbsp;

On January 2, Lee was stabbed by a man when he was surrounded by journalists in the southern port city of Busan. The accused stormed at the politician and stabbed him on the left side of his neck with a knife.&nbsp;

As per the local reports, Lee suffered a wound to his jugular vein. He was immediately rushed to a hospital in Busan, and then flown to the capital Seoul where he underwent a nearly two-hour surgery.&nbsp;

Police said they believe the man acted alone, further mentioning that he had determined to kill Lee to prevent him from running for South Korea’s presidency, which he admitted to during questioning.&nbsp;

In a televised briefing, Busan police chief Woo Cheol-Mun said that the suspect said he was unsatisfied with what he believes were authorities' failures to punish Lee over his corruption allegations.&nbsp;

Woo said the attacker left an eight-page note outlining similar intentions for his attack. Woo said that he got the outdoor knife in April and has followed Lee to five events since June.&nbsp;

"It's analysed that the suspect's subjective political belief led to the extreme crime," Woo said, further adding that police had not found other accomplices.&nbsp;

Busan police said that during police questioning, the suspect had no defence lawyer. The police have also not revealed his identity.&nbsp;

<h2>Lee discharged from the hospital</h2>

The 59-year-old politician was released Wednesday from the hospital after eight days of treatment. He also underwent a surgery. He told reporters that the attack should serve as an impetus to overhaul South Korea's notoriously confrontational politics.&nbsp;

In his first public comments since the incident, he said: "I sincerely hope this incident could serve as a milestone to end the politics of hatred and restore a politics of respect and coexistence."&nbsp;

"I myself too will reflect on my deeds and strive hard to create politics of hope," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Lee Jae-myung, the South Korean opposition leader, who was recently stabbed, was targetted by a well-prepared assailant who wanted to prevent him from becoming president.

Lee Jae-myung, the South Korean opposition leader, who was recently stabbed, was targetted by a well-prepared assailant who wanted to prevent him from becoming president. The entire incident was properly planned, police said on Wednesday (Jan 10). On January 2, Lee was stabbed by a man when he was surrounded by journalists in the southern port city of Busan. The accused stormed at the politician and stabbed him on the left side of his neck with a knife. As per the local reports, Lee suffered a wound to his jugular vein. He was immediately rushed to a hospital in Busan, and then flown to the capital Seoul where he underwent a nearly two-hour surgery. Police said they believe the man acted alone, further mentioning that he had determined to kill Lee to prevent him from running for South Korea’s presidency, which he admitted to during questioning. In a televised briefing, Busan police chief Woo Cheol-Mun said that the suspect said he was unsatisfied with what he believes were authorities' failures to punish Lee over his corruption allegations. Woo said the attacker left an eight-page note outlining similar intentions for his attack. Woo said that he got the outdoor knife in April and has followed Lee to five events since June. "It's analysed that the suspect's subjective political belief led to the extreme crime," Woo said, further adding that police had not found other accomplices. Busan police said that during police questioning, the suspect had no defence lawyer. The police have also not revealed his identity. Lee discharged from the hospital The 59-year-old politician was released Wednesday from the hospital after eight days of treatment. He also underwent a surgery. He told reporters that the attack should serve as an impetus to overhaul South Korea's notoriously confrontational politics. In his first public comments since the incident, he said: "I sincerely hope this incident could serve as a milestone to end the politics of hatred and restore a politics of respect and coexistence." "I myself too will reflect on my deeds and strive hard to create politics of hope," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korean opposition leader was stabbed to stall his bid for presidency: Police

North Korea's Kim Jong Un branded South Korea his country's "principal enemy" and warned he would not hesitate to annihilate it as he toured major weapons factories, state media said Wednesday.

The report follows recent live-fire exercises by Pyongyang's military near the contested maritime border that prompted counter-drills and evacuation orders for residents on two South Korean border islands.

Images in state media showed Kim, in a full-length black leather jacket, standing in front of what analysts said were short-range ballistic missile launchers, purportedly nuclear-capable.

"The historic time has come at last when we should define as a state most hostile toward the Democratic People's Republic of Korea the entity called the Republic of Korea (South Korea)," Kim was reported as saying by the official Korean Central News Agency.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-rejects-idea-of-reunification-with-south-korea-plans-to-launch-spy-satellites-in-2024-675186">North Korea rejects idea of reunification with South Korea, plans to launch spy satellites in 2024</a>

Kim, urging factory workers to modernise and "produce more weapons", said he had "no intention of avoiding a war" and warned he would have no hesitation in "annihilating" South Korea, KCNA added.

News of the factory tour came a day after nearly 50 countries joined the United States in condemning North Korea's alleged transfers of weapons to Russia for use in Ukraine, which would violate rafts of United Nations sanctions.

The White House last week accused the North of sending both missiles and launchers to Russia in what it called a "significant and concerning escalation" of its support for Moscow's war effort.

The live-fire drills that started last Friday marked one of the most serious escalations between the two sides since 2010, when the North shelled Yeonpyeong island, leaving four dead, including two marines.

<h2>- 'Much tougher stance' -</h2>

Kim, accompanied by senior party and military officials, toured multiple munitions factories on Monday and Tuesday, KCNA said, describing the visits as encouragement "in the struggle for attaining the huge production goal for the new year".

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Kim said that while the North would not "unilaterally" trigger a confrontation, it had "no intention of avoiding a war".

Were Seoul to use force against the North, "we will have no hesitation in annihilating the ROK by mobilising all means and forces in our hands," KCNA reported Kim as saying.

Those comments signal a shift in North Korean policy and hint that Pyongyang will take a "much tougher stance" toward Seoul in future, Hong Min, of the Korea Institute for National Unification, told AFP.

"It is the first time that the North has called the South its 'principle enemy', signifying the change of North Korea's Seoul approach to an ultra-hawkish mode," he said.

The North's recent artillery drills were "emblematic of the changed approach," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-critic-navalny-makes-appearance-on-tv-screen-in-prison-first-time-since-moving-to-new-jail-678671">Kremlin critic Navalny makes appearance on TV screen in prison, first time since moving to new jail</a>

Relations between the two Koreas are at one of their lowest points in decades, after Kim enshrined the country's status as a nuclear power into the constitution and test-fired several advanced intercontinental ballistic missiles.

At Pyongyang's year-end policy meetings, Kim threatened a nuclear attack on the South and called for a build-up of his country's military arsenal ahead of armed conflict that he warned could "break out any time".

Kim also successfully put a spy satellite into orbit late last year, after receiving what Seoul said was Russian help, in exchange for arms transfers for Moscow's war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

North Korea's Kim Jong Un branded South Korea his country's "principal enemy" and warned he would not hesitate to annihilate it as he toured major weapons factories, state media said Wednesday.

North Korea's Kim Jong Un branded South Korea his country's "principal enemy" and warned he would not hesitate to annihilate it as he toured major weapons factories, state media said Wednesday. The report follows recent live-fire exercises by Pyongyang's military near the contested maritime border that prompted counter-drills and evacuation orders for residents on two South Korean border islands. Images in state media showed Kim, in a full-length black leather jacket, standing in front of what analysts said were short-range ballistic missile launchers, purportedly nuclear-capable. "The historic time has come at last when we should define as a state most hostile toward the Democratic People's Republic of Korea the entity called the Republic of Korea (South Korea)," Kim was reported as saying by the official Korean Central News Agency. ALSO READ | North Korea rejects idea of reunification with South Korea, plans to launch spy satellites in 2024 Kim, urging factory workers to modernise and "produce more weapons", said he had "no intention of avoiding a war" and warned he would have no hesitation in "annihilating" South Korea, KCNA added. News of the factory tour came a day after nearly 50 countries joined the United States in condemning North Korea's alleged transfers of weapons to Russia for use in Ukraine, which would violate rafts of United Nations sanctions. The White House last week accused the North of sending both missiles and launchers to Russia in what it called a "significant and concerning escalation" of its support for Moscow's war effort. The live-fire drills that started last Friday marked one of the most serious escalations between the two sides since 2010, when the North shelled Yeonpyeong island, leaving four dead, including two marines. - 'Much tougher stance' - Kim, accompanied by senior party and military officials, toured multiple munitions factories on Monday and Tuesday, KCNA said, describing the visits as encouragement "in the struggle for attaining the huge production goal for the new year". ALSO READ | Thailand seeks public opinion as it moves to ban recreational cannabis use, after historic decriminalisation Kim said that while the North would not "unilaterally" trigger a confrontation, it had "no intention of avoiding a war". Were Seoul to use force against the North, "we will have no hesitation in annihilating the ROK by mobilising all means and forces in our hands," KCNA reported Kim as saying. Those comments signal a shift in North Korean policy and hint that Pyongyang will take a "much tougher stance" toward Seoul in future, Hong Min, of the Korea Institute for National Unification, told AFP. "It is the first time that the North has called the South its 'principle enemy', signifying the change of North Korea's Seoul approach to an ultra-hawkish mode," he said. The North's recent artillery drills were "emblematic of the changed approach," he added. ALSO READ | Kremlin critic Navalny makes appearance on TV screen in prison, first time since moving to new jail Relations between the two Koreas are at one of their lowest points in decades, after Kim enshrined the country's status as a nuclear power into the constitution and test-fired several advanced intercontinental ballistic missiles. At Pyongyang's year-end policy meetings, Kim threatened a nuclear attack on the South and called for a build-up of his country's military arsenal ahead of armed conflict that he warned could "break out any time". Kim also successfully put a spy satellite into orbit late last year, after receiving what Seoul said was Russian help, in exchange for arms transfers for Moscow's war in Ukraine.

North Korean leader Kim brands Seoul ‘principal enemy’ during weapons factory tour

South Korea has passes the bill that bans the consumption of dog meat in the country. The bill will be outlaws slaughtering and selling dogs from 2027 - which is a centuries-old practice.

South Korea passes bill to ban dog meat, to be outlawed from 2027

South Korea's main opposition party leader, Lee Jae-myung, said on Wednesday he hoped a stabbing attack he suffered could mark the end of the "politics of hate" in the country.

He was speaking to reporters and supporters after he was discharged from a hospital in Seoul, where he has been recovering since last week's attack in the southern city of Busan.

"I hope this case which shocked everyone can serve as a milestone to end the politics of hate and confrontation and restore proper politics," said Lee, who thanked medical staff at the hospital and vowed to serve his country.

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The attack was widely condemned as an "act of terror" and a challenge to democracy by President Yoon Suk Yeol and politicians from both the ruling and opposition parties.

Police are due to announce the outcome of an investigation into the attack later on Wednesday.

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Earlier, the alleged assailant told reporters he was sorry over the fallout from the attack as he was leaving a police station.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taiwans-defence-ministry-issues-air-raid-alert-ahead-of-polls-678441">Taiwan's Defence Ministry issues air raid alert ahead of polls</a>

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Three members of the main opposition Democratic Party announced they would leave the party citing disagreements over Lee's leadership while wishing him a swift recovery.

Though the Democratic Party and Yoon's conservative People Power Party account for the majority of lawmakers in parliament, a number of politicians on both sides of the aisle have indicated they plan to break away to form new parties to run in general elections due in April.

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South Korea's main opposition party leader, Lee Jae-myung, said on Wednesday he hoped a stabbing attack he suffered could mark the end of the "politics of hate" in the country.

South Korea's main opposition party leader, Lee Jae-myung, said on Wednesday he hoped a stabbing attack he suffered could mark the end of the "politics of hate" in the country. He was speaking to reporters and supporters after he was discharged from a hospital in Seoul, where he has been recovering since last week's attack in the southern city of Busan. "I hope this case which shocked everyone can serve as a milestone to end the politics of hate and confrontation and restore proper politics," said Lee, who thanked medical staff at the hospital and vowed to serve his country. Also Read | Twitch, Amazon's live streaming platform, to trim workforce by 35pc with 500 job cuts The attack was widely condemned as an "act of terror" and a challenge to democracy by President Yoon Suk Yeol and politicians from both the ruling and opposition parties. Police are due to announce the outcome of an investigation into the attack later on Wednesday. Also Read | AI's double-edged sword: Technology making hacking easy for non tech savvy people, warn US officials Earlier, the alleged assailant told reporters he was sorry over the fallout from the attack as he was leaving a police station. Watch | Taiwan's Defence Ministry issues air raid alert ahead of polls × Three members of the main opposition Democratic Party announced they would leave the party citing disagreements over Lee's leadership while wishing him a swift recovery. Though the Democratic Party and Yoon's conservative People Power Party account for the majority of lawmakers in parliament, a number of politicians on both sides of the aisle have indicated they plan to break away to form new parties to run in general elections due in April.

South Korea opposition leader hopes for end to 'politics of hate' after attack

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