North Korea May Conduct Nuclear Test After US Elections, Says South Korean Intelligence
Seoul [South Korea], September 27: South Korea’s intelligence agency, NIS, has indicated that North Korea is likely to conduct its seventh nuclear test after the US presidential elections in November. This information was shared by Lee Seong Kweun, a member of the intelligence committee of South Korea’s National Assembly, following a briefing by the NIS.
Lee mentioned that while a nuclear test before the elections cannot be ruled out, it is more probable to occur afterward. The NIS also warned that the nuclear test might be accompanied by other provocative actions such as satellite launches and missile tests.
The NIS informed lawmakers that North Korea possesses around 70 kilograms of plutonium and a significant amount of highly enriched uranium (HEU), enough to build numerous nuclear weapons. Lee stated that this move could be seen as an attempt to influence the US ahead of its elections and to boost internal confidence amid North Korea’s severe economic situation.
Earlier this month, North Korean media released photos of leader Kim Jong Un inspecting a uranium enrichment facility and centrifuges used for nuclear bomb fuel. North Korea’s nuclear program is banned under multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions. The NIS believes the facility is likely the Kangson nuclear complex near Pyongyang.
On September 18, North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile eastward, and on September 12, it test-fired a new 600mm multiple rocket launcher.
Doubts Revealed
North Korea -: North Korea is a country in East Asia, known for its strict government and leader Kim Jong Un.
Nuclear Test -: A nuclear test is when a country explodes a nuclear bomb to see how powerful it is.
US Elections -: US Elections are when people in the United States vote to choose their leaders, like the President.
South Korean Intelligence -: South Korean Intelligence is a group in South Korea that gathers information about other countries to keep South Korea safe.
NIS -: NIS stands for National Intelligence Service, which is South Korea’s main spy agency.
Plutonium -: Plutonium is a heavy metal used to make nuclear bombs.
Enriched Uranium -: Enriched Uranium is a type of uranium that has been processed to be used in nuclear weapons or reactors.
Kim Jong Un -: Kim Jong Un is the leader of North Korea.
Missile Tests -: Missile tests are when a country launches missiles to see if they work properly.
Uranium Facilities -: Uranium facilities are places where uranium is processed for use in nuclear weapons or reactors.