North Korea’s leadership has doubled down on its nuclear ambitions, with Kim Jong-un directing a significant expansion of the country's nuclear arsenal as part of a broader defense strategy designed to position Pyongyang ahead of global rivals. This call emerged from a high-level party meeting where nuclear forces were reaffirmed as the centerpiece of national military sovereignty and deterrence.
The Korean Central News Agency detailed that the Workers' Party of Korea convened its second plenary session of the ninth central committee over three days to review policies and advance the agenda from the party congress earlier this year. Kim emphasized that pursuing nuclear weapons development remains the most effective means to confront the increasingly unpredictable international military and political environment.
According to the official report, North Korea intends to "carry out innovative and accelerated" initiatives grounded in nuclear technology to strengthen its defense capabilities. Kim set explicit tasks to enhance defense power without interruption, setting the ultimate ambition to “overtake the world” in nuclear strength.
The meeting also highlighted plans to fast-track construction of a large strategic guided missile cruiser with a displacement of 10,000 tonnes, reflecting North Korea’s naval modernization efforts.
Pyongyang reiterated its hostile stance toward South Korea, labeling it the nation's chief adversary. The report strongly condemned the South Korea–United States military alliance, particularly targeting the recent Nuclear Consultative Group meeting, which North Korean media described as a “nuclear war body” preparing detailed attack scenarios on the North.
Further military fortifications along the southern border remain a priority. Kim stressed the need to build new naval bases and other military infrastructure to reinforce defense lines. This directive follows previous orders to bolster frontline units and deploy advanced artillery systems near the demilitarized zone before the year’s end.
The plenary session included notable personnel changes within the party’s leadership. Jo Yong-won was appointed secretary of the central committee, regaining a powerful role, while Kim Jae-ryong faced removal from several key positions within the party structure.