North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has sharply criticized a new nuclear submarine agreement between the United States and South Korea, calling it an “offensive act” that threatens the stability of the Korean Peninsula. The remarks were made while Kim inspected North Korea’s submarine production facility, according to state news agency KCNA.

Kim stated that the US-Seoul deal “severely violates [Pyongyang’s] security and maritime sovereignty” and poses a threat that must be countered by accelerating North Korea’s naval modernization and nuclear weaponization, the report said.

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Kim Tours Nuclear Submarine Facility

On Wednesday, Kim visited a site where North Korea is developing an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine capable of launching surface-to-air missiles. This inspection highlights Pyongyang’s ongoing push to modernize its nuclear naval capabilities amid escalating regional tensions.

During the visit, Kim also oversaw the test firing of a high-altitude long-range anti-air missile into the Sea of Japan, which KCNA reported successfully struck a mock target at 200 kilometres (124 miles) altitude.

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US-South Korea Submarine Deal Details

Seoul confirmed it is pursuing a “standalone deal” with the United States to acquire nuclear-powered submarine technology. While US law prohibits the transfer of nuclear material for military use, South Korea could receive an exemption from President Donald Trump, according to Wi Sung-lac, South Korea’s national security adviser.

• Similar arrangements have been made with Australia, which is building nuclear-powered submarines with US assistance.
• Talks between Seoul and Washington on the deal are expected to begin early next year.

The agreement has triggered strong reactions from North Korea, which views it as a direct threat to its security and regional stability.

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Regional Security Implications

Kim emphasized the need to accelerate North Korea’s nuclear and naval modernization to counter perceived threats. Analysts say the move reflects Pyongyang’s broader strategy of deterrence and military signaling, following years of heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

The development comes amid growing geopolitical rivalries in East Asia, particularly with the US and its allies expanding defense capabilities in the region.

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Russia-North Korea Relations

In a related development, Russian President Vladimir Putin sent Kim a New Year’s greeting, praising North Korea for its military support in the ongoing war in Ukraine.

• Since 2024, North Korea has deployed thousands of soldiers alongside Russian forces in Ukraine and participated in construction and engineering operations in captured territories.
• Putin highlighted the “invincible friendship and militant fraternity” between Russia and North Korea and expressed a desire to strengthen strategic partnership and cooperation on regional and international issues.

The message underscores deepening ties between Pyongyang and Moscow, signaling potential coordination in military and geopolitical strategy.

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Conclusion

Kim Jong Un’s condemnation of the US-South Korea submarine deal, coupled with ongoing nuclear submarine development and missile tests, reflects North Korea’s determination to counter perceived threats to its sovereignty. Meanwhile, the country’s growing partnership with Russia highlights shifting alliances in East Asia and the potential for increased regional security challenges.