Kim Jong Un Orders Expansion of North Korean Nuclear Forces

During a meeting of the Central Military Commission of the Workers' Party of Korea on July 9, 2026, Kim Jong Un ordered the qualitative and quantitative expansion of North Korea's nuclear forces. The commission approved measures to modernize military bases, upgrade the technical infrastructure of combat systems, and accelerate the construction of modern naval bases. Kim emphasized the necessity of enhancing the army's actual war capability and initiating a revolution in military education to ensure national security against threats from the United States and South Korea.

As part of this military buildup, Kim directed the General Reconnaissance and Intelligence Bureau to expand its functions and missions. The state's principal intelligence agency is tasked with increasing its reconnaissance capabilities to better control potential enemies. South Korea's Unification Ministry is monitoring these developments, noting that the bureau is likely a restructured version of the former General Reconnaissance Bureau.

This escalation follows Pyongyang's rejection of peace overtures from South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and its declaration as an irreversible nuclear state. The International Atomic Energy Agency has expressed alarm over the increase in fissile material production, with Director-General Rafael Grossi characterizing the nuclear arsenal as being off the charts. These developments occur amid ongoing tensions and recent weapons tests conducted aboard the naval destroyer Kang Kon.