The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has stated that operation signs continue to be observed at the experimental light water reactor in the Yongbyon nuclear facility in North Pyongyang, North Korea.
Radio Free Asia (RFA) reported on June 4 that Director General Rafael Grossi made this statement during a speech at the IAEA Board of Directors meeting held in Vienna, Austria, on June 3. He revealed that in December 2023, hot water was detected being discharged from the light water cooling system reactor within the Yongbyon nuclear facility. The intermittent cooling water discharge consistent with reactor operation has been observed since then.
Grossi also pointed out that signs of continuous operation of the 5MW (megawatt) reactor, centrifuge enrichment facilities, and their ancillary facilities within this facility are also emerging.
Furthermore, he explained that construction of an annex building at the Kangson site southeast of Pyongyang began at the end of February this year. The external appears to be completed, with a significant expansion of usable area for the facility. The Kangson site has been suspected of being another facility where North Korea enriches uranium outside of the Yongbyon nuclear facility to produce nuclear material for nuclear warheads.
In addition, Grossi emphasized that the Punggye-ri nuclear test site in Kilju, North of Hamgyong, is preparing for a new nuclear test, which violates the resolutions of the UN Security Council.
