Kim Yo-jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Deputy Chairman of the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea, warned that the country would employ its nuclear forces if South Korea initiates a military conflict. This claim was reported by DEA Novosti, citing the North Korean Central Telegraph Agency (KCNA). According to the KCNA report, Kim Yo-jong stated that if South Korea pursues any form of military confrontation, North Korea’s nuclear forces would be compelled to fulfill their duties in defense of the nation. The message comes amid ongoing regional tensions and a series of aggressive exchanges between Pyongyang and Seoul. (Attribution: KCNA via DEA Novosti)
In the same dispatch, Kim Yo-jong criticized comments by South Korea’s defense minister referring to the possibility of a preemptive strike against the DPRK. The North Korean official described such talk as a significant misstep, suggesting it could escalate the risk of conflict and undermine regional stability. (Attribution: KCNA via DEA Novosti)
The remarks are part of a broader pattern in which Pyongyang frames its defensive posture around deterrence while signaling readiness to respond to perceived threats from Seoul and its allies. Kim Yo-jong has previously warned of severe consequences in response to military provocations directed at Seoul or Pyongyang. Observers note that these statements are often calibrated to influence timeline and decision-making in Washington and Seoul, as well as to signal resolve to internal audiences in North Korea. (Attribution: KCNA via DEA Novosti)
Analysts have highlighted continued rhetoric about the possibility of a North Korean nuclear response in the event of perceived aggression from the South. The North is alleged to have cautioned that statements by Seoul about becoming a nuclear-weapon state could prompt Pyongyang to reassess its own strategic posture in the longer term. This framing appears intended to project strength and to deter actions perceived as risky by the North. (Attribution: KCNA via DEA Novosti)
Reports have also noted that South Korean intelligence and military officials have discussed the DPRK’s readiness to conduct a nuclear test. The broader context includes claims that work is underway to reopen or reconfigure tunnels at a known nuclear test site near Pungeri, North Korea. These reports, while controversial, contribute to heightened vigilance on both sides of the Korean Peninsula. Canadian, American, and allied observers monitor the situation closely for potential impacts on regional security, alliance commitments, and global nonproliferation norms. (Attribution: KCNA via DEA Novosti)