NORTH KOREA — In a move that could further escalate tensions in the Korean peninsula, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited the country's space agency last week to oversee preparations for a military reconnaissance satellite aimed at countering U.S.-ROK forces.
Framing the satellite's capability as necessary for national defense, the North Korean leader approved plans for its launch after a general assembly inspection and space environment test. NK News reports.
The announcement comes amid heightened tensions between North Korea and the United States, as well as South Korea, over the North's recent nuclear and missile tests.
The launch of the satellite is likely to further add to the already high level of tension in the region, as it raises concerns about North Korea's ability to gather intelligence from space.
The United States, which already has a significant military presence in the region, has been closely monitoring North Korea's missile and nuclear programs and has repeatedly called for the dismantling of North Korea's nuclear weapons program.
South Korea has also expressed concern over the development of the satellite, with the defense ministry stating that it poses a threat to national security. The ministry also stated that it was closely monitoring North Korea's missile activities and would take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of South Korean citizens.
The launch of the satellite is likely to be seen as a provocative move by the international community, particularly by the United States, which has imposed a series of economic sanctions on North Korea in response to its nuclear and missile tests.
Experts warn that the launch could lead to a further escalation of tensions on the Korean peninsula and could also lead to an increase in military activity in the region.
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