As per KCNA’s report, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally supervised the testing of a newly developed surface-to-sea missile and toured a significant munitions factory. During his visit, he emphasized the need to increase the production of weapons.

South Korea's military reported that North Korea has conducted multiple launches of cruise missiles off its east coast, marking the latest in a series of similar tests carried out in recent weeks ahead of South Korea's upcoming general election in April.

State media KCNA reported that Kim accused South Korea of violating North Korea's sovereignty by insisting on a "Northern Limit Line", which serves as the maritime demarcation line between the two Koreas.

Kim issued directives to enhance military preparedness in the waters north of Yeonpyeong Island and to the west of the Korean peninsula, particularly in the vicinity of the Northern Limit Line.

According to KCNA, Kim stated that the number of demarcation lines in the West Sea of Korea is not significant. He emphasized that any intrusion by the enemy into the maritime border acknowledged by North Korea would be considered a violation of the DPRK's sovereignty and an armed provocation.

The new missile, named Padasuri-6 or "Sea Eagle-6," successfully flew over the sea and struck its intended target. Additionally, Kim inspected a significant munitions factory, where he was briefed on the modernization of production.

State media reported that Kim emphasized the factory's importance in strengthening North Korea's armed forces and outlined steps to enhance the quality and quantity of munitions production in response to current circumstances and the ongoing revolution.

Kim's inspection of the munitions factory coincides with accusations from the United States and its allies regarding North Korea's alleged arms trade with Russia. Last month, the White House reported that Russia had utilized short-range ballistic missiles obtained from North Korea to carry out strikes against Ukraine, citing newly declassified intelligence.

Image source: Reuters