Kim Jong Un Inspects Nuclear Submarine Project, Oversees Missile Test Amid Rising Regional Tensions

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has inspected the construction of a nuclear-powered submarine and overseen the test-firing of long-range surface-to-air missiles, according to the country’s state media KCNA.

The developments come amid heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula, following the recent arrival of a U.S. nuclear-powered submarine in South Korea and growing regional military cooperation between Seoul, Washington, and Tokyo.

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Missile Test Near East Coast

KCNA reported that the missile test took place near North Korea’s east coast and was designed to evaluate a new high-altitude missile system. The missiles reportedly struck aerial targets at a distance of approximately 200 kilometers (120 miles).

South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed the test, stating that the launch occurred at 5 p.m. local time, and that the military had been monitoring launch preparations in advance, according to Yonhap News Agency.

Nuclear Submarine Construction and Naval Expansion

Kim also visited a separate site where an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered submarine is under construction. While KCNA did not disclose the location or timing of the visit, it said the vessel would be capable of launching missiles and represents a key pillar of North Korea’s naval modernisation strategy.

The submarine project is part of five major defence policies outlined by the ruling Workers’ Party to strengthen the country’s military capabilities. According to analysts, the submarine’s hull design suggests it is already fitted with a nuclear reactor and is nearing operational readiness.

Kim stated that North Korea is simultaneously building multiple nuclear submarines and attack destroyers, with construction being accelerated so vessels can be equipped with a range of advanced weapons systems.

Kim Jong Un Appears with Daughter Ju Ae

KCNA photographs showed Kim at the submarine construction site accompanied by his daughter Ju Ae, who is widely viewed by analysts as a potential successor. The images showed Kim smiling alongside Ju Ae inside a large indoor facility housing a red-painted vessel, surrounded by senior officials.

The appearance further fuels speculation about her growing public role in North Korea’s leadership narrative.

Reaction to US and South Korean Military Moves

Kim warned that South Korea’s plan to develop a nuclear-powered submarine, agreed upon with the United States, would further destabilise the region and threaten North Korea’s national security.

State media also criticised the recent arrival of the U.S. nuclear-powered submarine Greeneville at the port of Busan, calling it an act that escalates military tensions on the Korean Peninsula. The South Korean navy said the vessel docked for crew shore leave and logistical resupply.

Additionally, North Korea accused Japan of showing intentions to pursue nuclear weapons, alleging it was being encouraged by South Korea’s submarine ambitions.

Kim reiterated that the expansion of nuclear capabilities and naval modernisation is “essential and inevitable,” arguing that the current global security environment is “by no means peaceful.”