In a recent statement, Kim Yo Jongsister of the North Korean leader Kim Jong Unannounced that North Korea is committed to strengthening its military power to safeguard its sovereignty and ensure peace in the region.
What happened: Kim Yo Jong condemned the series of U.S. military exercises in the region this year, starting with live-fire drills conducted with South Korea, which she labeled as causing regional instability, Reuters reported on Wednesday. He referred to the South Korean military as “puppet military gangsters.”
“We will continue to build overwhelming and powerful military power to safeguard our sovereignty, security and regional peace,” he told North Korean news agency KCNA.
The militaries of the United States and South Korea have conducted a series of exercises of increased scope and intensity in recent months, with leaders of both countries pledging to strengthen military readiness against threats from North Korea.
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About 100 military aircraft conducted two-week air exercises this month, according to South Korea’s military. North Korea sees these US military exercises as preparations for a nuclear war against it, while Washington and Seoul argue that the drills are defensive and conducted regularly to maintain readiness.
Because matter: This announcement comes on the heels of a series of events that have escalated tensions in the region. Earlier this year, North Korea conducted its fourth missile test, raising warnings in South Korea and Japan. The missile was suspected to be ballistic, capable of deploying a hypersonic glide vehicle to carry a nuclear payload.
In response to North Korea’s actions, the United States, South Korea and Japan have proposed the creation of a new body to oversee sanctions enforcement. This initiative was proposed to maintain international pressure on North Korea.
Kim Yo Jong’s recent statement echoes her previous criticism of the United States, as she accused the United States of “gangster-like” hypocrisy following North Korea’s failed launch of a military spy satellite in 2023.
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