Full Breakdown
North Korea's Military Advancements Under Kim Jong Un
12/25/2025, 2:04:10 AM
Overview of Recent Military Tests
On December 24, 2025, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised the test-firing of a long-range surface-to-air missile at a launch site near the East Sea. This event was reported by the state media outlet, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), on December 25. The missile test aimed to evaluate the strategic technology for a new type of high-altitude missile, successfully destroying targets from a distance of 200 kilometers (124 miles).
Submarine Development Initiative
In addition to the missile test, Kim Jong Un also oversaw the construction of an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered submarine at a separate location. This submarine is designed to launch surface-to-air missiles and is part of a broader initiative by the ruling Workers' Party of Korea to modernize the North Korean Navy. This modernization effort is one of five key policies aimed at enhancing the country's defense capabilities.
Official Statements & Responses
Kim Jong Un emphasized the necessity of the all-out development of nuclear capabilities and the modernization of the Navy, stating that these actions are "essential and inevitable" given the current global climate, which he described as anything but peaceful. He also expressed concern regarding South Korea's plans to develop a nuclear submarine in collaboration with the United States, labeling it a potential threat to national security that necessitates a response from North Korea.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of North Korea's military advancements argue that these actions exacerbate tensions on the Korean Peninsula. The international community, particularly South Korea and the United States, views North Korea's missile tests and submarine developments as provocative and destabilizing, potentially leading to an arms race in the region.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While KCNA reported the successful test of the missile and the submarine construction, there are no independent confirmations of these events from external sources. The lack of specific details regarding the locations and dates of the missile test and submarine construction raises questions about the transparency of North Korea's military activities.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Kim was quoted as saying that the all-out development of nuclear capabilities and modernisation of the Navy are essential and inevitable, while "the present world is by no means peaceful".” — Kim Jong Un, Leader of North Korea
- “the present world is by no means peaceful” — Kim Jong Un, Leader of North Korea
This recent military activity underscores North Korea's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities amid rising regional tensions, particularly in light of South Korea's military collaborations with the United States.
