North Korea has unveiled its most assertive response strategy yet against the United States, accusing Washington of leading an invasive nuclear military bloc with South Korea and Japan, state media reported Sunday.
The strategy was announced during the year-end plenary meeting of the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea, held from Monday to Friday and chaired by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
In its statement, the KCNA described the U.S. as “the most reactionary” nation, accusing it of maintaining anti-communism as a core national policy. The declaration of “the strongest response strategy toward the U.S.” was justified as a measure to safeguard national security, the agency said.
Kim Jong-un reportedly emphasized the importance of refining military tactics to align with the demands of modern warfare. He also called for the continued enhancement of the country’s military capabilities, reinforcing North Korea’s long-standing stance on bolstering its defense in the face of perceived threats.
The meeting took place against a backdrop of increasing military cooperation between the United States, South Korea, and Japan. North Korea views their trilateral alliance as a direct challenge to its sovereignty, with state media characterizing the partnership as evolving into “an invasive nuclear military bloc.”
Adding to the session’s significance, Pak Thae-song, a party secretary, was appointed as the new premier, replacing Kim Tok-hun. While the reasons for the leadership change were not disclosed, it underscores the ongoing restructuring within the North Korean government as it adapts to new domestic and international challenges.
The declarations come at a time of heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula. This year has seen increased joint military exercises by South Korea, the U.S., and Japan, alongside North Korea’s continued missile tests, including suspected intercontinental ballistic missile launches.
The KCNA’s announcement reflects North Korea’s sustained criticism of what it perceives as U.S.-led efforts to contain its ambitions. Analysts say Pyongyang’s framing of the trilateral alliance as a nuclear threat is likely aimed at justifying its own military buildup and fostering domestic support for its regime.
North Korea’s new strategy and leadership changes are expected to dominate regional security discussions in the months ahead, as South Korea and its allies monitor Pyongyang’s actions closely.
