North Korea on Thursday showcased apparent advances in building a nuclear-powered submarine, with state media images revealing a nearly finished hull, as leader Kim Jong Un criticized South Korea’s efforts to acquire similar technology.

The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that Kim visited a shipyard to inspect what the North describes as an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered submarine, which he has called a key step in modernizing and arming the country’s navy with nuclear capabilities. The North has suggested plans to equip the vessel with nuclear weapons, describing it as a “strategic guided missile submarine” or “strategic nuclear attack submarine.”

During the inspection, Kim denounced South Korea’s nuclear submarine ambitions, supported by former U.S. President Donald Trump, as an “offensive act” violating North Korea’s security and maritime sovereignty. He said the South’s plans emphasize the need for North Korea to continue developing and arming its own naval forces, claiming the submarine’s completion would mark an “epoch-making” advance in strengthening the country’s nuclear deterrent.

KCNA released photos of Kim inspecting a large, burgundy-painted submarine inside an assembly hall, marking the first state media images of the vessel since March. Experts say the largely completed hull suggests that most internal systems, including the engine and possibly the reactor, are already installed, indicating the submarine could be ready for sea trials in the coming months.

The nuclear-powered submarine is part of Kim’s broader military modernization plans, which include hypersonic weapons, intercontinental ballistic missiles, multi-warhead systems, and spy satellites. Analysts warn that a stealth-capable, missile-launching submarine would pose a significant challenge for regional security. North Korea’s recent military cooperation with Russia may have aided its technological development, though some experts believe the reactor is likely domestically produced with possible Russian assistance.

Meanwhile, South Korea has pursued its own nuclear submarine program, with U.S. support under discussion, though details of construction and nuclear fuel acquisition remain unclear.

KCNA also reported that Kim oversaw tests of new anti-air missiles launched into the sea, prompting South Korea and U.S. intelligence agencies to assess the weapons. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula have intensified in recent years as Kim accelerates his nuclear program and strengthens ties with Moscow.

Source: AP