North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered an "exponential" expansion of the country's nuclear forces after inspecting a newly operational nuclear material production facility. State media reported on Thursday that Kim visited the facility on Wednesday, where he was briefed on advanced production processes and long-term strategic goals. Kim claimed that North Korea's production capacity for weapons-grade nuclear material has more than doubled over the past five years and emphasized the need to further increase output to counter perceived security threats.
During the visit, Kim reaffirmed North Korea's policy of continuously bolstering its nuclear deterrent, citing worsening security threats and long-term confrontation with "hostile forces." State media KCNA reported that a key consultative meeting was held to outline guidelines for accelerating both the qualitative and quantitative expansion of North Korea's nuclear arsenal. Kim described the expansion as a "transformative milestone" for advancing nuclear capabilities.
North Korea has previously withdrawn from the Non-Proliferation Treaty and conducted six nuclear tests, leading to multiple UN resolutions. The country insists its nuclear arsenal is irreversible and necessary for protection against potential attacks from South Korea and US forces stationed there. The new facility is believed to use more sophisticated technology, though specific details about its location and operational timeline remain undisclosed.
Kim's remarks come amid heightened tensions in the region, with North Korea frequently citing US-led military threats as justification for its nuclear program. The disclosure of the new facility aligns with Kim's repeated vows to expand nuclear capabilities in response to perceived external dangers.