North Korean leader Kim Jong Un stated that the country would not hesitate to use all available offensive forces, including nuclear weapons, if an enemy attempted to encroach on its sovereignty. This statement came after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol threatened to end the North Korean regime at a military event. Kim criticized Yoon for bragging about overwhelming military strength and possessing nuclear weapons, which he viewed as a threat to regional security and peace. Kim made these comments at a training base of army special operation units, emphasizing North Korea’s willingness to use nuclear weapons in response to any encroachment on its sovereignty.
North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, has been pursuing a nuclear weapons program for decades and is believed to have enough materials to build dozens of nuclear weapons. The country has conducted six underground nuclear detonation tests, showcasing its nuclear capabilities. In response to South Korea’s military parade on armed forces day, which included a ballistic missile capable of carrying a large warhead and a flypast of a U.S. bomber, Kim warned that any attempt to use armed forces against North Korea would result in the use of all available offensive forces, including nuclear weapons.
Yoon Suk Yeol, South Korea’s President, warned Pyongyang against using nuclear weapons, stating that such an action would be met with a resolute and overwhelming response from the South Korean military and the U.S. alliance. Yoon’s comments at the military event included a warning that the North Korean regime would come to an end if nuclear weapons were employed. Kim responded to these threats by stating that the enemies’ rhetoric and actions would not diminish North Korea’s military strength or result in the relinquishment of its nuclear weapons.
The escalating tensions between North and South Korea highlight the ongoing threat of conflict in the region, particularly with regards to the use of nuclear weapons. Kim Jong Un’s declaration that North Korea would not hesitate to use all available offensive forces, including nuclear weapons, in response to any encroachment on its sovereignty, underscores the country’s commitment to maintaining its military capabilities. The exchange of threats and warnings between the leaders of North and South Korea signals a precarious situation that could potentially lead to further instability and conflict in the region if diplomatic efforts are not pursued. It is essential for both sides to engage in dialogue and de-escalation measures to avoid any potential military confrontation.