Kim Jong Un Urges Military Preparedness Against U.S. and South Korea
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for the mobilization of the country's most powerful means to destroy the United States and South Korea in the event of military confrontation, according to state media reports on Monday.
Kim emphasized the increasing danger of armed conflict on the Korean peninsula due to what he referred to as hostile maneuvers by the United States and other enemies. He urged the country to "sharpen the treasured sword" to protect itself, stating, "If the enemy opts for military confrontation ... our army should deal a deadly blow to thoroughly annihilate them by mobilizing all the toughest means and potentialities without a moment's hesitation."
The remarks were made during a meeting with senior military leaders at the ruling Workers' Party headquarters on Sunday to celebrate the accomplishments made in 2023. North Korea conducted tests of its largest ballistic missiles and launched its first military reconnaissance satellite in that year, which Kim hailed as significant advances in modernizing the country's military.
This call to upgrade military readiness aligns with the commitment made at the end of a five-day Workers' Party meeting to strengthen the country's nuclear arsenal, develop military drones, and launch three new spy satellites in 2024.
The heightened rhetoric from Kim comes amid increased military drills by the United States and South Korea, involving strategic military assets such as a nuclear missile submarine, aircraft carriers, and large bombers. The upcoming pivotal elections in both South Korea and the United States may be viewed by Pyongyang as an opportunity to exert leverage through military pressure.
In response to North Korea's actions, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol pledged to expedite the completion of a missile defense system and a system using U.S. extended deterrence to "fundamentally deter any North Korean nuclear and missile threat." Extended deterrence involves the use of U.S. military assets, including nuclear weapons, to deter and respond to attacks against allies.
Amid the military tensions, Kim also hosted a New Year's reception for senior ruling party members and attended a grand art performance in Pyongyang, featuring ice skaters, acrobats, choirs, and fireworks at midnight to welcome the new year. The event was attended by senior party members, soldiers, and members of the diplomatic corps, celebrating with "great happiness and boundless excitement."
