North Korea’s Kim Jong Un has called for a significant expansion of the country’s nuclear programme after visiting a newly operational nuclear material production facility, according to state media KCNA.
During the inspection, Kim was briefed on upgraded production systems and reviewed plans to increase output of weapons-grade nuclear material. KCNA reported that production capacity has more than doubled over the past five years, with further expansion now being directed under new strategic goals.
State media said Kim stressed the need to strengthen what he described as nuclear deterrence in response to growing security challenges. He also chaired a meeting focused on accelerating both the scale and efficiency of nuclear development.
Photographs released by KCNA showed Kim touring industrial-style equipment at the facility, which analysts believe may be part of the Yongbyon nuclear complex.
Officials said the site is a uranium enrichment plant, and experts suggest the visit was intended to reinforce North Korea’s position ahead of possible diplomatic activity, while also signalling continued advancement of its nuclear programme.
South Korean officials and international analysts say the move highlights Pyongyang’s continued focus on expanding its strategic capabilities, even as regional discussions on security and disarmament continue.
North Korea is believed to possess a limited number of nuclear warheads, though it has never publicly confirmed the size of its arsenal.
