North Korea Threatens South Korea

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un announced a five-year plan to significantly expand North Korea's nuclear and missile capabilities, including the development of underwater-launched intercontinental ballistic missiles and tactical nuclear weapons targeting South Korea. He explicitly threatened to 'completely destroy' South Korea if its security is jeopardized and declared South Korea a permanent enemy, rejecting any future engagement with Seoul. Despite this hardline stance, Kim Jong Un left open the possibility of dialogue with the United States, contingent on Washington discarding its 'hostile' policies. The announcements were made during a Workers' Party congress in Pyongyang, which concluded with a military parade. South Korea's Unification Ministry expressed regret over North Korea's hostile rhetoric and affirmed its commitment to pursuing peace. Tensions are expected to rise further with upcoming joint military exercises between South Korea and the United States.