News

North Korea is reportedly gearing up for a new round of provocative weapons displays, including long-range missile tests and the launch of a spy satellite, as it seeks to support its fragile economy. The country has been facing chronic economic hardships and food shortages, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and international sanctions imposed by the United Nations.

According to South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS), North Korea’s economy has been shrinking each year since 2020, with its gross domestic product in 2021 being 12% less than in 2016. Experts believe that the current food shortages and economic troubles are the worst the country has experienced since Kim Jong Un assumed power in 2011. However, despite these challenges, there are no signs of an imminent famine or major public unrest that could threaten Kim’s leadership.

The NIS also revealed that North Korea has been engaging in illicit activities to circumvent the sanctions. It is believed that the country has funded its weapons programs through illegal cyber activities and covert exports of banned items. Additionally, in the first half of this year, North Korea covertly exported 1.7 million tons of coal and 580 kilograms of gold, violating U.N. sanctions.

The NIS further stated that Kim Jong Un is expected to resume weapons testing in response to major U.S.-South Korean military drills and an upcoming U.S.-South Korea-Japan summit. Unusually heavy activities have been detected at a North Korean facility that produces solid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and another site related to liquid-fueled ICBMs.

Furthermore, North Korea may attempt to launch a spy satellite in late August or early September to commemorate the country’s 75th anniversary. The NIS reported that North Korea has been testing an engine for the rocket and has installed an additional land antenna for satellite data reception. This would be the country’s second attempt to put a satellite into orbit, following a failed attempt in May.

North Korea remains sensitive to U.S. efforts to strengthen its alliances with South Korea and Japan. In response, the country has conducted over 100 weapons tests since the start of 2022, asserting that it needs to bolster its military capabilities. While North Korea has demonstrated the potential to reach the U.S. mainland with its intercontinental ballistic missiles, it still needs to overcome certain technological challenges.

The post North Korea Preparing for Provocative Weapons Displays Amid Economic Challenges appeared first on ISP Today.