Kim Demands U.S. Recognize North Korea’s Nuclear Status

North Korea’s Kim Jong Un calls for U.S. to accept nuclear power status for improved relations after party congress.

North Korea’s Kim Says U.S. Must Accept Its Nuclear Status Before Ties Can Improve

At the close of North Korea’s rare Ninth Congress of the Workers’ Party of Korea, leader Kim Jong Un outlined plans to expand the country’s nuclear weapons arsenal and suggested that relations with the United States could improve only if Washington recognizes North Korea as a nuclear power. Kim made the remarks as he wrapped up the week‑long political gathering in Pyongyang, which also featured a large military parade.

Kim vowed to increase the number and capability of North Korea’s nuclear weapons, including stronger ground‑based and underwater intercontinental ballistic missiles and other advanced systems as part of a five‑year defense buildup. He emphasized that the future of U.S.‑North Korea relations “entirely” depends on how the United States responds to Pyongyang’s security posture and nuclear status.

While Kim suggested there is room for improved U.S. ties if Washington drops what he calls its hostile policy toward North Korea and accepts its nuclear weapons status, he also rejected dialogue with South Korea and reinforced a tough stance toward Seoul at the congress.