North Korea's Kim Jong Un Declares Nuclear Status 'Irreversible,' Issues Stern Warning to South Korea and US

Kathmandu. North Korea has sent a clear message that it will not abandon its nuclear program under any circumstances. The country's leader, Kim Jong Un, declared that its status as a nuclear-armed nation is 'irreversible' and issued a stern warning to South Korea and the United States.

Addressing the Supreme People's Assembly, Kim stated that the struggle against hostile forces would be intensified. He clarified that according to the responsibilities granted by the constitution, the self-defensive nuclear deterrent would be further expanded and strengthened. According to him, North Korea will never move towards abandoning its nuclear power.

Kim cited the US military action against Iran as an example of 'state terrorism' and criticized the tendency to display power globally. The United States and Israel claim that the attack on Iran was to stop the development of nuclear weapons, but Tehran has denied such allegations.

Despite years of international sanctions and diplomatic isolation, North Korea is estimated to possess dozens of nuclear weapons and materials capable of further production. It has developed advanced launch systems, including solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles, which possess rapid strike capabilities. North Korea has conducted six nuclear tests to date.

Following his recent reappointment as the head of the State Affairs Commission, Kim also presented a hardline stance towards South Korea. He declared South Korea the 'most hostile nation' and stated it would be completely rejected and ignored. Pyongyang has ignored repeated offers for unconditional talks from South Korean President Lee Jae-myung.

Kim warned that any action against his country would be met with a 'merciless' response, stating there would be no hesitation. His remarks signal that security challenges on the Korean Peninsula are set to deepen.

According to Hong Min, an analyst at the Korea Institute for National Unification, Kim's latest statement reflects deep concern over recent US military activities. He analyzed that events related to Iran and Venezuela have motivated North Korea to further advance its nuclear program.

Meanwhile, Washington has been attempting to resume high-level talks with Pyongyang in recent months. Discussions are also underway regarding a potential meeting between US President Donald Trump and Kim, particularly in the context of a visit to Beijing.

Kim accused the US of undermining regional security and stated that the deployment of nuclear strategic assets around his country has increased. He also alleged that the US is engaging in 'aggression and interference' worldwide.

Images published by state media showed Kim, in formal attire, acknowledging greetings from assembly members. Kim is the third-generation leader of the North Korean regime established in 1948 and has been in power since 2011. 

On the economic front, Kim stated a goal to increase industrial output by 1.5 times. According to him, the economy has made significant progress over the past five years, and major industries have been restructured while overcoming various difficulties.

He dismissed the arguments of opposing forces by claiming that economic prosperity can be achieved while maintaining the nuclear program. He also announced that 15.8 percent of the total budget would be spent on defense in 2026. This is slightly higher than the previous year.

Thus, Kim's latest statement clearly signals that North Korea will show no leniency in its nuclear policy, further creating tension in the regional and global security balance.