On October 9, the Korean Central News Agency reported a significant development in North Korea’s military capabilities, with the Academy of Defense Science successfully conducting a test firing of 240mm guided artillery shells. This test, which took place on October 8, aimed to verify the reliability of North Korea’s automated firing system and assess the accuracy of the artillery shells, which can strike targets up to 67 kilometers away.
In conjunction with these military advancements, the agency also highlighted remarks made by Kim Jong Un during a visit on October 7 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Kim Il Sung University of National Defense. As General Secretary of the Workers’ Party of Korea and Chairman of the State Affairs Commission, Kim made it clear that North Korea is committed to maintaining the balance of power on the Korean Peninsula. He emphasized the importance of advancing national defense technology and bolstering military industry to enhance self-defense capabilities.
Kim expressed serious concerns regarding the military alliance between South Korea and the United States, asserting that it has evolved into a nuclear-based alliance that significantly heightens military strength and engages in provocative actions. He warned that such developments could disrupt the regional balance of power at any moment. Kim firmly insisted that an imbalance in strategic power on the Korean Peninsula could result in war, underscoring the necessity for North Korea to be equipped to deter hostile forces and maintain ongoing control.
