Kim Jong Un vowed to expand North Korea’s nuclear arsenal and strengthen its capabilities, according to state media KCNA. Speaking at the conclusion of the ruling Workers’ Party’s Ninth Congress, Kim emphasized that the country’s international standing had “risen extraordinarily” and promised to focus on projects to increase warhead numbers and operational means.
Think tank Stockholm International Peace Research Institute estimates that North Korea currently has around 50 nuclear warheads and enough fissile material to produce up to 40 more, while accelerating production of additional fissile material.
Kim also outlined plans to develop advanced intercontinental ballistic missiles, including submarine-launched systems, as well as weapons employing artificial intelligence, unmanned drones, and satellite-targeting capabilities.
Military Parade Highlights and Succession Speculation
The Congress concluded with a military parade in Pyongyang’s Kim Il Sung Square, attended by Kim and his daughter, Ju Ae, sparking speculation that she may be groomed as his successor. Troops in the parade wore camouflage and special warfare gear, while jets conducted flyovers. No strategic nuclear weapons were displayed, unlike previous parades.
Relations With the United States
While Kim left the door open for dialogue with Donald Trump, he insisted that improved relations depend on Washington abandoning its “policy of confrontation.” Experts interpret Kim’s remarks as signaling a refusal to engage in talks centered on denuclearization unless the U.S. first changes its stance.
Speculation exists that Kim could meet Trump around late March or early April during Trump’s China visit, though nothing has been confirmed.
South Korea Tensions
Kim sharply criticized Lee Jae Myung’s government, calling South Korea the “most hostile enemy” and dismissing conciliatory gestures. He warned that Pyongyang “can initiate arbitrary action” if provoked, stating that South Korea’s “complete collapse cannot be ruled out.” Analysts note the emphasis on tactical nuclear and conventional weapons targeting South Korea heightens the seriousness of these threats.
President Lee emphasized continued efforts to build trust for systemic peace, noting that decades of hostility cannot be overcome instantly but require sustained diplomatic engagement.
Analysis
Kim’s remarks underline North Korea’s strategy of nuclear entrenchment combined with selective diplomatic openness. While maintaining a provocative posture toward South Korea, he signals that dialogue with the U.S. remains possible if perceived threats are removed. The combination of expanded nuclear capabilities, advanced weapons development, and sharp rhetoric toward Seoul underscores the persistent instability on the Korean Peninsula.
With information from Reuters.
