North Korean leader Kim Jong Un emphasized to the country's military commanders the necessity of mobilizing the most potent means to obliterate the United States and South Korea in the event of a military confrontation, according to state media reports on Monday.
Kim asserted that the increasing threat of armed conflict on the Korean peninsula is rapidly becoming a reality due to hostile maneuvers by "enemies," including the United States. He urged the country to "sharpen the treasured sword" to safeguard itself in response to these perceived threats.
In a meeting with senior military leaders on Sunday at the ruling Workers' Party (WPK) headquarters, Kim congratulated them on the achievements made in 2023. During this year, North Korea conducted tests of its largest ballistic missiles and successfully launched its first military reconnaissance satellite, marking significant strides in the modernization of the country's military capabilities.
Kim's call for an enhancement of military readiness aligns with the commitments made after a five-day WPK meeting, which concluded on Saturday. The party pledged to bolster its nuclear arsenal, develop military drones, and launch three new spy satellites in 2024.
This heightened rhetoric coincides with increased joint drills between the United States and South Korea over the past year. The U.S. deployed strategic military assets, including a nuclear missile submarine, aircraft carriers, and large bombers, contributing to regional tensions.
As both South Korea and the United States gear up for pivotal elections this year, Pyongyang may perceive an opportunity to enhance its leverage by intensifying military pressure. In response, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol vowed on Monday to expedite the completion of a missile defense system and a system utilizing U.S. extended deterrence to effectively counter any North Korean nuclear and missile threats.
Extended deterrence involves the strategic use of U.S. military assets, including nuclear weapons, to deter and respond to an attack against an ally.
In separate reports, state media noted 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 featured various artistic performances, including ice skating, acrobatics, and choirs, culminating in a fireworks display at midnight. The festivities were attended by senior party members, soldiers, and members of the diplomatic corps. The reports described the atmosphere as filled "with great happiness and boundless excitement of seeing in the New Year with the benevolent father of the great socialist family."
