Keywords: North Korea, Nuclear, Deterrent, Launch, International Community, Security

Kim Jong Un has made clear once again that there will be no wavering or deviation in the strategic line and policies of the North Korean government, focused on steadily developing a more advanced, efficient, and reliable weapons system. This was reported by the Korean Central News Agency.

Due to the ever-present threat of hostile forces on the Korean Peninsula, Kim has noted that the country must strengthen its “nuclear war deterrent.” This was proven with the successful launch of the Hwasong-18, an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), which was first tested in April and deemed the most powerful weapon of the nuclear forces.

The missile, which runs on solid propellant, is harder to detect in advance than liquid-fueled missiles. It was launched at a high angle to avoid neighboring countries, flew for 74 minutes, and traveled 1,001 kilometers (622 miles) at a maximum altitude of 6,648 kilometers (4,130 miles) before landing in a targeted area in the open waters off the North’s east coast.

The United States, Japan, and South Korea have all condemned the launch, claiming it poses a risk to regional and international peace. Adam Hodge, a spokesperson for the U.S. National Security Council, stated that the United States will do whatever is necessary to ensure the safety of its homeland and its allies in South Korea and Japan.

The United Nations Security Council has also scheduled an open meeting later today to discuss the ICBM launch, at the request of the United States, Albania, France, Japan, Malta, and the United Kingdom.

The launch violated U.N. Security Council resolutions that prohibit North Korean launches using ballistic technologies, though it is uncertain if the Council can impose new sanctions on North Korea.

In response, South Korea is maintaining a firm readiness to repel potential provocations by North Korea and is taking steps to achieve “peace through strength,” with the support of the United States.

The U.S. and South Korea also conducted a training exercise involving a U.S. bomber, in order to improve their joint operational capabilities and demonstrate Washington’s commitment to extended deterrence.

Meanwhile, North Korea has been reinforcing its nuclear capability after Kim’s nuclear diplomacy with former President Donald Trump was unsuccessful in 2019 due to disputes over U.S.-led sanctions.

Kim Yo Jong, Kim’s sister and senior adviser, has recently threatened “shocking” consequences in response to what she deemed U.S. reconnaissance activity near North Korean territory.

This has been dismissed by the U.S. and South Korean governments as baseless and they have asked North Korea to remain peaceful. Since the beginning of 2022, North Korea has conducted approximately 100 missile tests, with Kim’s ultimate goal being to use his arsenal to gain greater concessions in future diplomacy with the United States.