Kim Jong Un to Push Nuclear and Military Expansion at Key Party Congress

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un announced that Pyongyang will unveil a new policy combining nuclear weapons development and conventional military expansion during the upcoming 9th Congress of the Workers’ Party of Korea, according to state media KCNA.

During inspections of weapons research centers on Thursday and Friday, Kim emphasized the importance of advancing both nuclear and conventional forces to strengthen national defense. KCNA reported that the policy aims to enhance the country’s military readiness amid rising regional tensions.

Kim also observed a military shooting drill on Friday and toured a hospital construction site, underscoring his dual focus on defense and domestic development. His flurry of public activities follows a high-profile visit to Beijing earlier this month, where he participated in his most significant international multilateral event to date. Meetings with world leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, further elevated his global profile.

At the same time, North Korea sharply criticized an upcoming U.S.-South Korea tabletop military exercise. KCNA described the planned drills as a “nuclear war exercise,” accusing Washington and Seoul of justifying Pyongyang’s pursuit of stronger nuclear deterrence.

The new strategy highlights Kim’s intent to balance nuclear power with conventional strength, reinforcing North Korea’s defiance of international pressure to denuclearize. Analysts say the policy direction will likely escalate tensions on the Korean Peninsula, where the U.S. and South Korea continue to strengthen defense cooperation in response to Pyongyang’s weapons program.

As North Korea prepares for the ruling party’s congress, Kim’s message signals a firm commitment to advancing the country’s military posture while also consolidating his leadership at home and abroad.