In response to joint military exercises between the U.S. and South Korea, Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, has ordered his armed forces to increase their preparedness for potential military action. State media reported that Kim praised his country’s tanks as the best globally while observing tank crew training in Pyongyang. The Supreme Leader emphasized the need for intensified training exercises and elevated combat readiness, even participating in tank operations himself.
In a departure from previous efforts to achieve peace and reunification with South Korea, Kim Jong Un has taken a more aggressive stance, recently ordering the removal of a statue symbolizing such aspirations. The current military escalation by North Korea coincides with the ongoing joint military drills conducted by South Korea and the U.S., which have historically provoked strong reactions from the DPRK.
Tensions between North and South Korea have worsened following unsuccessful attempts at diplomacy, including former President Donald Trump’s efforts to bring the two countries together. The launch of a spy satellite by North Korea last year further strained relations, leading to the dissolution of a military de-escalation agreement between the two nations.
