North Korea Tests Hypersonic Missiles, Kim Jong Un Declares Nuclear Forces “Ready for War”

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised the launch of “cutting-edge” hypersonic missiles, signaling that Pyongyang’s nuclear forces are prepared for conflict, state media reported Monday. The tests, conducted amid a “geopolitical crisis,” appear linked to the recent US operation in Venezuela, analysts say.

Seoul and Tokyo reported detecting two ballistic missiles launched from near Pyongyang on Sunday — the country’s first missile test of 2026. The test occurred just hours before South Korean President Lee Jae Myung traveled to Beijing to strengthen ties and seek China’s influence over North Korea.

The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) quoted Kim saying the launch demonstrated “the readiness of the DPRK’s nuclear forces.” He added, “Important achievements have been recently made in putting our nuclear forces on a practical basis and preparing them for an actual war.”

According to Kim, Pyongyang’s missile program aims to “gradually put the nuclear war deterrent on a high-developed basis.” Photos from state media showed Kim smoking a cigarette alongside top officials as a missile soared into the sky.

Kim also referred to international events as justification for the tests: “Why it is necessary is exemplified by the recent geopolitical crisis and complicated international events,” a clear nod to Washington’s weekend capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Pyongyang condemned the operation as a “serious encroachment of sovereignty” and said it “clearly confirms once again the rogue and brutal nature of the US.”

Analysts say Sunday’s launch sends a message that North Korea possesses a credible war deterrent. Hong Min of the Seoul-based Korea Institute for National Unification noted, “This demonstrated a capability to launch more precise strikes than existing multiple rocket launchers from various platforms, including air and ground.”

North Korea first tested hypersonic missiles in October. These missiles, which travel over five times the speed of sound and can maneuver mid-flight, are difficult to detect and intercept. Last year, similar technology was deployed by Russia in Ukraine and by Iran against Israel, countries with which North Korea has strengthened ties.

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