NIS: North Korea May Conduct '7th Nuclear Test' After US Presidential Election

North Korea Holds Significant Amounts of Plutonium and Highly Enriched Uranium
National Intelligence Service: "Nuclear Facility Disclosure, a Move Aimed at US Presidential Election"

The National Intelligence Service (NIS) forecasted that North Korea could carry out a '7th nuclear test' after the upcoming U.S. presidential election in November.

On the 26th, during the National Assembly Intelligence Committee's plenary session, in response to questions about the possibility of North Korea conducting a nuclear test, the NIS reported, as conveyed by the ruling and opposition party secretaries, that "while it is possible before the U.S. election, there are various military provocations such as intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) and satellite launches, so it is more likely to occur after the election rather than before."

Regarding North Korea's nuclear capabilities, it was assessed that they possess approximately 70 kg of plutonium and a significant amount of highly enriched uranium (HEU). This quantity is sufficient to produce at least a double-digit number of nuclear weapons.

As for the intention behind North Korea's public disclosure on the 13th of Chairman Kim Jong-un's visit to the HEU manufacturing facility, it was analyzed that "externally, it is an act conscious of the U.S. ahead of the U.S. election, and internally, it is an act to boost confidence among the population due to the very poor economic situation."

Regarding the location of the nuclear facility in question, it was stated, "Based on past cases, it is highly likely to be in Kangs?n, but it is difficult to provide a definitive answer." Additionally, "While North Korea is showing signs of accelerating uranium enrichment activities, we are continuously monitoring whether another reactor in Yanbian is operational."

Concerning the test launch of the new tactical ballistic missile on the 18th, it was analyzed as "aimed at verifying precision strike capability." Furthermore, "Two missiles were fired, and one reached the target area, showing improvement compared to the past," and "the arrival of missiles or launch vehicles with heavy warheads at the impact point is increasing the security threat."