North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has urged the country’s military commanders to mobilize the most powerful means for the destruction of the United States and South Korea in the event of military confrontation, according to state media reports on Monday.
Kim emphasized that the risk of armed conflict on the Korean peninsula is escalating rapidly due to what he perceives as hostile maneuvers by enemies, particularly the United States. The leader stressed the need for North Korea to “sharpen the treasured sword” to defend itself against potential threats.
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
quoted the KCNA news agency
Kim’s remarks were made during a gathering with senior military leaders at the ruling Workers’ Party (WPK) headquarters on Sunday, where he congratulated them on the accomplishments made in 2023. North Korea notably tested its largest ballistic missiles and launched its first military reconnaissance satellite during that year, advancements Kim considers vital for modernizing the country’s military.
The call to enhance military readiness follows the conclusion of a five-day WPK meeting on Saturday, during which North Korea pledged to boost its nuclear arsenal, develop military drones, and launch three new spy satellites in 2024.
The heightened rhetoric from Kim coincides with increased joint drills between the United States and South Korea in the past year, involving the deployment of strategic military assets such as a nuclear missile submarine, aircraft carriers, and large bombers. This development also precedes pivotal elections in both South Korea and the United States, which Pyongyang may view as an opportunity to leverage its position through a campaign of military pressure.
In response to the escalating tensions, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol vowed to expedite the completion of a missile defense system and a system using U.S. extended deterrence. Extended deterrence involves the use of U.S. military assets, including nuclear weapons, to deter and respond to an attack against an ally.
In other reports, KCNA stated that Kim hosted a reception for senior members of the ruling party and attended a late-night “grand art performance” celebrating the new year at the May Day stadium in Pyongyang. The event showcased ice skaters, acrobats, choirs, and fireworks, creating an atmosphere of joy and excitement among attendees as they welcomed the new year with the leader they fondly refer to as the “benevolent father of the great socialist family.”
