North Korea's Nuclear Program Expands Seriously

North Korea is making 'very serious' advances in its nuclear weapons capabilities, with the probable addition of a new uranium enrichment facility, as reported by International===International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi. Activity at the Yongbyon nuclear complex, including its reactor, reprocessing unit, and light-water reactor, has rapidly increased. Satellite imagery supports the assessment of a new suspected uranium enrichment plant. North Korea's nuclear program is estimated at a few dozen warheads, and it continues to defy UN sanctions. Separately, South Korea is pursuing a nuclear-powered submarine program, which the IAEA is monitoring to avert proliferation risks. South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun reaffirmed transparency with the IAEA on this project. While there are reports of military technology exchange between North Korea and Russia, the IAEA has not seen direct evidence of Russian technology in North Korea's nuclear weapons program. North Korea also conducted recent strategic cruise and anti-ship missile tests under the guidance of Kim Jong Un.