North Korea's New Reactor Expected to Be Operational by Next Summer

The reactor at Yongbyon nuclear complex could serve as a new source of fissile materials for nuclear weapons, raising international concerns.

North Korea's new light-water reactor at the Yongbyon nuclear complex is expected to be formally operational by next summer, according to South Korea's defense minister.
The reactor, which is currently in the stage of a trial operation, could serve as a new source of fissile materials for nuclear weapons.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and other foreign experts have detected signs of increased activity at the reactor, including a strong water outflow from its cooling system, indicating that it may already be operational.
The operation of the light-water reactor, which can produce plutonium, violates UN Security Council resolutions.
North Korea's nuclear arsenal is estimated to range from 20-60 to more than 100, and the country can reportedly add six to 18 bombs each year.