Kim Inspects North Korea's First Nuclear Sub Hull

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspected the nearly completed hull of the country's first nuclear-powered strategic missile submarine this week, state media reported, amid escalating tensions over regional naval developments.

The visit to the submarine construction site, detailed by the Korean Central News Agency on Thursday, highlighted what Kim described as an "epoch-making crucial change" in bolstering North Korea's naval capabilities. The 8,700-ton vessel, designed to carry guided missiles, represents a key step in Pyongyang's efforts to modernize its fleet with nuclear-armed systems. Kim emphasized the urgency of equipping the navy with such technology, stating it was essential to counter perceived threats to the nation's security and maritime sovereignty.

Kim's remarks came in direct response to South Korea's recent agreement with the United States to pursue nuclear-powered submarine technology. He condemned the deal as an "offensive act" that violates North Korea's interests and warned that any infringement on its strategic sovereignty would provoke a "merciless retaliatory attack." Officials in Seoul have described their plans as defensive, aimed at enhancing deterrence...