Kim Jong Un Threatens Complete Destruction of South Korea Amid Rising Tensions
PYONGYANG, North Korea — In a stark escalation of rhetoric, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un declared on Thursday that his country could “completely destroy” South Korea if provoked, labeling Seoul the “most hostile enemy”. Speaking at the Ninth Congress of the ruling Workers’ Party, Kim dismissed recent diplomatic efforts by South Korea as “clumsily deceptive and crude,” signaling a hardening stance amid ongoing military buildups.
According to North Korea’s state media outlet, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim accused South Korea’s government of engaging in “obnoxious behavior” and warned that Pyongyang “can initiate arbitrary action” in response. He further stated that “South Korea’s complete collapse cannot be ruled out,” underscoring the severity of the threat.
This announcement comes amid North Korea’s continued expansion of its nuclear arsenal and enhancement of military capabilities, raising alarm across the region and internationally. The U.S. Department of State has repeatedly condemned Pyongyang’s aggressive posture and urged restraint, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic engagement to prevent conflict.
Kim’s comments at the weeklong congress also dismissed Seoul’s attempts to improve inter-Korean relations, which have included offers of dialogue and cooperation. The North Korean leader characterized these overtures as insincere, reflecting deep mistrust between the two Koreas that persists despite decades of intermittent diplomacy.
Experts note that North Korea’s rhetoric often serves multiple purposes: consolidating internal power, signaling strength to external adversaries, and shaping negotiation dynamics. The U.S. Department of Defense continues to monitor developments closely, maintaining a robust military presence in the region to deter potential aggression.
South Korea’s government has yet to issue a formal response to Kim’s latest threats, but officials have historically emphasized a dual approach of deterrence and dialogue. The United Nations Security Council has also condemned North Korea’s nuclear tests and missile launches, imposing sanctions aimed at curbing Pyongyang’s weapons programs.
As tensions simmer, the international community watches closely, aware that any miscalculation could have devastating consequences on the Korean Peninsula and beyond. The evolving situation underscores the fragile balance of peace in Northeast Asia and the urgent need for renewed diplomatic efforts to reduce hostilities and prevent conflict.
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