North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for a 'destructive' military posture to bolster his country's defenses, state media reported Thursday, as South Korea announced plans to train 'drone warriors' to counter potential threats from the North.
Kim's directive for a more aggressive stance
According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim made the remarks during a meeting of the Central Military Commission of the Workers' Party of Korea, where he emphasized the need for 'overwhelming and destructive' capabilities to protect national sovereignty and security. The meeting, held on Wednesday, reviewed recent weapons tests and set new guidelines for military development.
Kim's call comes amid a series of missile launches by North Korea this year, including intercontinental ballistic missiles and hypersonic weapons. The United Nations Security Council has condemned these tests, but Pyongyang has defended them as necessary for self-defense.
South Korea's drone warrior program
In response, South Korea's Defense Ministry announced a new initiative to train specialized 'drone warriors' as part of its efforts to counter North Korea's evolving threats. The program aims to equip personnel with skills in drone operation, electronic warfare, and artificial intelligence, according to a ministry statement released on Wednesday.
South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said the initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the military's ability to detect and neutralize North Korean drones, which have been used for reconnaissance and potential attacks. The announcement follows a series of drone incursions by the North in recent months, including one that crossed the border in January.
Escalating tensions on the peninsula
The developments mark a new chapter in the long-standing rivalry between the two Koreas. Analysts say Kim's rhetoric and South Korea's drone program could further destabilize the region, which is already on edge due to stalled denuclearization talks and increased military exercises by the United States and its allies.
Kim's call for a 'destructive' posture was interpreted by some experts as a signal that North Korea may conduct more provocative tests, possibly including a nuclear device. South Korea's presidential office expressed concern over the language, urging the North to return to dialogue.
Meanwhile, the United States reaffirmed its commitment to defend South Korea, with a State Department spokesperson saying Washington is 'closely monitoring the situation' and remains 'ready to respond to any threats.' The U.S. maintains approximately 28,500 troops in South Korea as a deterrent.
