IAEA Chief Warns of 'Very Serious' Expansion in North Korea's Nuclear Capabilities

Kathmandu. The head of the international nuclear watchdog has warned of a 'very serious increase' in North Korea's nuclear weapons production capacity. Recent inspections and assessments indicate that the country's enrichment and reprocessing activities are accelerating rapidly.

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi told a press conference in Seoul on Wednesday that North Korea is actively expanding key infrastructure for nuclear weapons development. According to him, this shift signals a significant increase in the country's strategic capabilities.

South Korean intelligence agencies estimate that diplomatically isolated North Korea is operating multiple facilities for uranium enrichment, a critical stage in nuclear weapon production. This includes the Yongbyon nuclear site, which Pyongyang previously claimed to have deactivated following past negotiations, but is reported to have been reactivated in 2021.

According to Grossi, the IAEA has confirmed a sharp increase in the operation of the Yongbyon reactor during its periodic assessments. Additionally, increased activity has been observed at reprocessing units and light-water reactors, with other related facilities also found to be in active status.

He stated, "All these activities point to a very serious increase in North Korea's nuclear weapons production capacity, which could reach an estimated number of several dozen weapons."

Since its first nuclear test in 2006, North Korea has continuously expanded its prohibited nuclear program. Despite United Nations sanctions, Pyongyang has repeatedly maintained its stance that it will never abandon its nuclear weapons.

Meanwhile, regarding questions about Russia's potential role in North Korea's nuclear development, Grossi clarified that the IAEA has not yet seen any concrete evidence. However, analysts suspect that in exchange for North Korea sending troops and artillery to support Russia's military campaign in Ukraine, Pyongyang may be receiving military technology assistance from Moscow.

Against this backdrop, North Korea's nuclear program appears to have become an increasingly sensitive international issue.