According to North Korea’s state newspaper Rodong Sinmun, Kim oversaw a naval demonstration on Thursday and inspected two 5,000-ton destroyers, including the recently repaired Kang Kon warship. He also ordered officials to accelerate the development of advanced underwater weapons systems.
The move comes just days before an expected visit by Xi Jinping to Pyongyang, a trip widely viewed as an effort to deepen ties between China and its longtime ally amid shifting regional dynamics.
Kim’s latest remarks reflect North Korea’s growing focus on maritime strength. He argued that the country must build a more powerful military force across land, sea, and air to effectively counter what he described as rising nuclear threats.
The inspection also highlighted the recovery of the Kang Kon destroyer, which partially capsized during its launch ceremony last year. Following extensive repairs, the vessel has now returned to service and is being showcased as a symbol of North Korea’s military resilience.
Earlier the same day, Kim visited a nuclear materials facility and reportedly called for a significant expansion of the country s nuclear arsenal, signaling that Pyongyang continues to pursue both conventional and strategic military upgrades simultaneously.
State media photographs also showed Kim accompanied by his daughter, Ju Ae, who is increasingly appearing at major military events and is viewed by some observers as a possible future successor.
Meanwhile, analysts say Pyongyang’s recent military displays may be intended to project strength ahead of Xi’s visit. South Korean experts noted that North Korea has, for the first time, publicly referenced plans for a 10,000-ton destroyer, suggesting ambitions to significantly expand its naval reach.
As regional alliances continue to evolve, North Korea appears determined to send a clear message: its military modernization is accelerating both above and below the waves.
