Kim Jong Un Threatens ‘Complete Destruction’ of South Korea, Vows Economic Boost
PYONGYANG, North Korea – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ratcheted up tensions with Seoul, declaring his country could “completely destroy” South Korea if its security is threatened. The warning came during a rare congress of the Workers’ Party Central Committee, where Kim also outlined a five-year plan focused on bolstering the nation’s economy and military capabilities.
Kim reiterated his refusal to engage in dialogue with South Korea, state media reported Thursday, but left the door open for potential talks with the United States.
The bellicose rhetoric comes as Kim seeks to assert a more forceful regional role, backed by his growing nuclear arsenal and strengthening ties with Russia and China, according to analysts. While such statements are frequent, experts suggest they are more about projecting strength than signaling imminent military action.
During the congress, Kim called for the development of new weapons systems, including intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of being launched from underwater and an expansion of tactical nuclear weapons, such as artillery and short-range missiles targeting South Korea.
South Korea’s Unification Ministry expressed regret over the continued hostile framing of inter-Korean relations, stating Seoul will “patiently” pursue efforts to stabilize peace.
Kim’s increasingly hardline stance towards Seoul has been evident since 2024, when he abandoned the long-held goal of peaceful reunification and designated South Korea a “permanent enemy.” Despite this, analysts believe Kim will likely adopt a more measured approach towards Washington, hoping to secure sanctions relief and potential recognition as a nuclear state.
The Workers’ Party congress, a key political event held in Pyongyang, also saw Kim showcase his daughter, Kim Ju Ae, further fueling speculation about her potential future role in the regime.
North Korea has repeatedly rebuffed calls from Washington and Seoul to resume diplomacy aimed at denuclearization, with talks stalled since the collapse of a 2019 summit between Kim and then-U.S. President Donald Trump.
Kim emphasized that the future of relations with the U.S. depends on Washington’s attitude, stating, “Whether it’s peaceful coexistence or permanent confrontation, we are ready for either, and the choice is not ours to make.”
The North Korean leader also signaled a desire to tighten his grip on power by suppressing outside influence, particularly South Korean culture, and accelerating the production of nuclear warheads and delivery systems. He called for bolstering electronic warfare capabilities and developing reconnaissance satellites.
