North Korean leader Kim Jong-un threatened to “completely” destroy South Korea if it threatens the North’s security, rejecting any engagement or dialogue with Seoul while leaving the door open for talks with the United States. He also called for the development of new weapons systems, including intercontinental ballistic missiles and an expansion of the country’s tactical nuclear arsenal.
At the conclusion of the ruling Workers’ Party conference—where he outlined his political goals for the next five years—Kim maintained openness to dialogue with Washington.
State media reported that Kim also urged the development of new weapons systems to strengthen the country’s nuclear forces, including submarine‑launched intercontinental ballistic missiles and an expanded stockpile of tactical nuclear weapons such as artillery and short‑range missiles aimed at South Korea.
He said the rapid advancement of North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs had “permanently established” the country’s status as a nuclear‑armed state, and he called on the United States to abandon what he described as “hostile policies” toward the North as a precondition for resuming long‑stalled talks.