Newly published pictures provide a rare insight into the typically secretive weapons establishments of North Korea, showcasing its leader Kim Jong Un as he tours arms factories, examines artillery facilities, and even participates in firing a gun.
The photos, released by the North Korean state news agency KCNA on Saturday, depict Kim’s visits to a production plant specializing in large-caliber artillery systems. Additionally, the images show him offering on-site guidance to workers at a complex dedicated to the development of strategic cruise missiles and unmanned attack aircraft.
KCNA’s report also highlights Kim’s issuance of crucial directives pertaining to the enhancement of production capabilities for new ammunition. The visits occurred over the course of Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, as reported by the news agency.
The unveiling of the images coincides with a time of increased tensions in the Korean Peninsula and seems to be a recent demonstration of power by North Korea.
During July, North Korea organized a significant military procession that showcased two variations of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) as a component of its observance of the armistice of the Korean War, which Pyongyang refers to as Victory Day. Despite the unresolved nature of the arduous conflict and the subsequent division of the peninsula, this event took place.
Pyongyang’s most recent solid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), the Hwasong-18, believed by numerous analysts to possess the capability to reach any part of the continental United States, were transported to Kim Il Sung Square in the capital. They were accompanied by the Hwasong-17, a liquid-fueled ICBM.
North Korea’s Defense Minister, Kang Sun Nam, hailed the parade as a significant achievement for the country’s military and a momentous occasion for its citizens.
Adding to this display of strength, Pyongyang conducted the firing of two short-range ballistic missiles later in the same month. These missiles were positioned to land in the waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan.