North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited the command center of the Second Army Corps, a military unit situated near the inter-Korean border, to review emergency military plans and reaffirm the North’s commitment to maintaining its separation from South Korea.
The state-run newspaper Rodong Sinmun reported that during his visit on Thursday, Kim emphasized, “Our military must once again firmly recognize the undeniable fact that South Korea is a foreign country and a clear enemy.”
Kim also addressed the recent demolition of the Gyeongui Line and Donghae Line connecting roads, stating it represented “not just a physical closure, but a decisive break from the long-standing troubled relationship with Seoul, and a complete shedding of unrealistic notions of national identity and unification.”
He warned, “In the future, when the thoroughly hostile South Korea violates our sovereignty, this serves as a final declaration that our military force can be used without any further conditions or restrictions.” He further asserted, “If our offensive capability is activated under the premise of if, it will be a legitimate act of retaliation against an enemy, not against our fellow countrymen.”
Furthermore, he remarked on strengthening the U.S.-South Korea alliance, stating, “The evolving and aggressive military actions of our adversaries highlight their impact on our national security and further emphasize the necessity of enhancing our nuclear deterrent.” He reaffirmed that the impetus for strengthening their nuclear capabilities is rooted in the U.S.-South Korea alliance.
During his visit, Kim received key documents outlining military action plans prepared by the commanders of the Second Army Corps in response to various developments. He supported the Corps’ determination, stating, “The military action plans are firmly established.”
Kim concluded, “Only a strong power that can manage and deter the enemy can ensure true peace, which is the only reliable guarantee for the safety and future of the state and its people.” He underscored the need for the military to grow stronger.
Kim was accompanied on his site visit by Pak Jong Chon, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission, and No Kwang Chol, Minister of Defense. Ri Yong Gil, Chief of General Staff, welcomed Kim to the location.