North Korea Unveils New Intercontinental Ballistic Missile at Military Parade
PYONGYANG, North Korea - In a display of military might, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un unveiled the country's most powerful nuclear strategic weapon system, a new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) called the Hwasong-20, during a massive military parade on Friday night.
The parade, which marked the 80th anniversary of the founding of the ruling Workers Party, was attended by foreign leaders from China, Vietnam, and Russia. According to North Korean state media, the new ICBM is yet to be tested but may be launched in coming weeks.
In a speech at the podium, Kim said his country's military has become "the most powerful and invincible army" under his leadership. He emphasized that his government will continue to strengthen its nuclear arsenal to protect the nation from external threats.
The Hwasong-20 is described as a significant upgrade to North Korea's existing ICBM capabilities, with some analysts speculating it could have a range of over 10,000 kilometers (6,200 miles), potentially targeting the continental United States and other parts of Asia.
"This new missile is a game-changer for North Korea," said Dr. Lee Sung-yoon, a Korean studies expert at Tufts University in Massachusetts. "It shows Kim's commitment to developing a credible nuclear deterrent that can reach any point on the globe."
The parade was held in the rain, but it did not dampen the spirits of the thousands of soldiers and civilians who attended. The event showcased North Korea's military might, with troops marching through the streets of Pyongyang, accompanied by tanks, artillery pieces, and other hardware.
North Korean state media described the Hwasong-20 as a "strategic weapon system" that will play a key role in defending the country against external threats. However, experts say the true intentions behind the new missile are unclear.
"The fact that Kim is showcasing this new ICBM at a time when tensions with the United States and South Korea are high suggests he may be trying to send a message," said Dr. Victor Cha, a senior advisor on Korean affairs at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington D.C.
The international community has reacted with concern to North Korea's latest military development. The United Nations Security Council is expected to hold an emergency meeting next week to discuss the implications of the new ICBM.
As tensions continue to rise, one thing is clear: North Korea's nuclear ambitions are a pressing global concern that requires a coordinated response from the international community.
Background
North Korea has been developing its nuclear program for decades, with Kim Jong Un inheriting the project from his father and grandfather. The country conducted its first nuclear test in 2006 and has since developed a robust arsenal of ICBMs capable of reaching targets across Asia and beyond.
The United States, South Korea, and other countries have imposed strict sanctions on North Korea to curb its nuclear ambitions, but Kim's regime has shown little signs of relenting. The latest military parade is seen as a demonstration of the country's determination to pursue its nuclear program despite international pressure.
Next Developments
As the world waits with bated breath for North Korea's next move, experts say the international community must remain vigilant and coordinate their efforts to address the growing threat posed by Kim's regime. The United Nations Security Council is expected to hold an emergency meeting next week to discuss the implications of the new ICBM.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State said: "We are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to work with our allies and partners to address the threat posed by North Korea's nuclear program."
The international community must now come together to address this pressing global concern and prevent further escalation in the region.
*Reporting by Fortune.*
