North Korea has revised its constitution to formally enshrine its policy on nuclear weapons, as its leader Kim Jong Un pledged to accelerate the production of nuclear arms as a deterrent against perceived U.S. provocations. The amendment was adopted unanimously by the Supreme People’s Assembly, North Korea’s rubber-stamp parliament, following a two-day meeting. The revised constitution now explicitly states that North Korea “develops highly nuclear weapons to ensure” its “rights to existence” and to “deter war.” Kim Jong Un emphasized that this policy is now a permanent and unbreakable law.
The amendment comes a year after North Korea passed a law granting it the right to use preemptive nuclear strikes in its defense. Kim had previously asserted that this would solidify North Korea’s nuclear status as “irreversible.”
Kim also called for the “exponential” increase in nuclear weapon production, diversification of nuclear strike capabilities, and their deployment across various military branches. He criticized the U.S. for its military provocations in the region, such as military exercises and the deployment of strategic assets.
Furthermore, Kim denounced trilateral cooperation between the U.S., South Korea, and Japan, referring to it as the “Asian-version NATO.” He urged solidarity with nations opposing the United States.
This constitutional amendment marks a further intensification of North Korea’s push for nuclear weapons development. Analysts suggest that the nation’s military cooperation with Moscow, following Kim’s recent trip to Russia, is likely to expand. South Korea has expressed concern about potential technological assistance to North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs amid Moscow’s efforts to acquire ammunition from the North for the war in Ukraine.
While Kim underscored the importance of revitalizing North Korea’s economy, which has faced serious food shortages and economic challenges in recent decades, his focus on accelerating nuclear weapon production is expected to raise tensions in Northeast Asia.
In response, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol warned against North Korea using nuclear weapons. Seoul held a large-scale military parade, showcasing its military capabilities, in a show of force.
The constitutional amendment follows North Korea’s decision to expel Private Travis King, a U.S. soldier who entered North Korea in July. The U.S. confirmed that he is now in American custody and heading home after being expelled to China.
The move is seen as North Korea’s response to perceived threats and provocations from the U.S. and its allies, further heightening tensions in the region.
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