Overview
- North Korean state media reported on Dec. 25 that Kim Jong Un inspected a nuclear-powered submarine construction project.
- The report quoted Kim as saying U.S.–South Korea cooperation on nuclear-powered submarines increases instability on the Korean Peninsula.
- The messaging linked the inspection to Washington’s confirmation of support for Seoul’s pursuit of nuclear-powered submarines.
- Some Japanese coverage referenced North Korea invoking a “secret weapon” in connection with its response, without details.
- NHK WORLD and other Japanese outlets carried the state media account, and no independent verification or technical specifics were provided.