North Korea under Kim Jong Un escalates military stance, prompts increased weaponry manufacturing

In a recent announcement, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and his top military officials discussed plans to bolster their war plans, conduct more tests of the country’s latest weaponry, and increase weapons production. This move is the latest in a series of actions taken by North Korea in defiance of international sanctions and criticism.

The enlarged meeting of the party’s Central Military Commission, which took place on Wednesday, aimed to further prepare the army for war in response to the “grave political and military situation prevailing in the Korean peninsula.” The meeting also warned of offensive military countermeasures to deter their perceived adversaries, likely referring to South Korea and the United States, who are scheduled to engage in annual military exercises later this month.

Kim Jong Un called for the active conduct of actual war drills to efficiently operate newly deployed weapons and equipment, as well as set a new goal to boost weapons production capacity. This directive comes after Kim’s recent tour of weapons factories, where he expressed great satisfaction with the production of higher quality, precise weapons.

The increase in North Korea’s weaponry production raises concerns not only about its regional instability but also about potential illicit exports to conflicts around the world. A recent Financial Times report highlighted the use of North Korean missiles by Ukrainian forces near the city of Bakhmut, raising questions about how these rockets were transferred across the globe. This incident suggests that North Korea is not shying away from promoting potential new and illicit arms exports.

## Analysis and Implications

The upcoming trilateral summit among President Joe Biden, Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol in the United States next week is expected to increase military activity on the Korean peninsula. Seoul and Tokyo have been repairing their diplomatic relations to bolster a trilateral security partnership with the U.S. against North Korea’s growing weapons program. The discussions at Camp David between the leaders of these countries are anticipated to have significant implications for the Indo-Pacific region and global security.

The recent visit of Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu to North Korea has also raised concerns about potential military transfers between these Cold War allies. While some believe that North Korea could be rewarded with foreign currency or Russian oil, others speculate that the main objective of the visit was for North Korea to gain access to Russian technology to improve its missile program. These suspicions are further fueled by reports of a Russian VIP plane visiting Pyongyang, hinting at newly negotiated deals between the two countries.

## Editorial and Advice

North Korea’s heightened war posture and increased weaponry production underscore the ongoing volatility and potential threats on the Korean peninsula. As tensions rise, it is crucial for the international community, particularly the United States, South Korea, and Japan, to maintain a unified approach to address North Korea’s belligerent actions.

Diplomacy must be prioritized over military escalation to prevent further instability and potential conflict. The upcoming trilateral summit between President Biden, Prime Minister Kishida, and President Yoon provides an opportunity to strengthen coordination and cooperation among these countries. This trilateral partnership, backed by international support, can exert pressure on North Korea to curb its provocative behavior and engage in meaningful negotiations towards denuclearization.

Furthermore, the increased Russian involvement with North Korea raises concerns about potential transfers of military technology and further destabilization in the region. The United States and its allies should closely monitor any illicit activities and ensure strict enforcement of international sanctions to prevent North Korea’s arms exports.

Overall, a collaborative and diplomatic approach is crucial in addressing the escalating tensions on the Korean peninsula. The international community must remain vigilant and steadfast in responding to North Korea’s provocations to maintain peace and stability in the region.