IAEA: "There Are Signs of North Korea Nuclear Facility Operation"

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo In-ho] The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) announced that it has found signs that some nuclear facilities in North Korea are still operational.

Rafael Grossi, IAEA Director General, stated at the first regular board meeting of the year held in Vienna, Austria, on the 1st (local time), "Evidence has been found that internal construction is ongoing, including tests of the cooling water system conducted at the experimental light-water reactor in North Korea at the end of last year."

Director General Grossi explained, "Currently, there are no signs that enriched uranium is being produced at the centrifuge enrichment facility in Yongbyon," but added, "There are indications that nuclear-related activities are ongoing in the Kangson area near Pyongyang."

He continued, "There is no sign that the 5 MW reactor is operational, but it appears that a thermal power plant used for the radiochemical laboratory is being operated."

Director General Grossi emphasized, "North Korea's nuclear activities remain a serious concern for the IAEA," and stated, "The continuation of North Korea's nuclear program is a clear violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions and is deeply regrettable."

Grossi had also raised the possibility last September that North Korea might be enriching uranium in Kangson.