North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has replaced the country’s top military general and called for heightened preparations for potential conflict. He has also signaled an increase in weapons production, and the expansion of military exercises, according to state media KCNA.
Kim conveyed these directives during a meeting of the Central Military Commission, where plans for countermeasures against enemies were discussed. The replaced top general, Chief of the General Staff Pak Su Il, was dismissed without further explanation. He had held this position for around seven months.
Pak’s successor, General Ri Yong Gil, previously served as the country’s defense minister and the top commander of conventional troops. He had also been the army chief of staff before being replaced in 2016, which sparked rumors of his execution in South Korea. However, he later reappeared in another senior role.
Kim additionally set a target for expanding weapons production capacity, without revealing specific details. He recently visited weapons factories and called for the construction of more missile engines, artillery, and other weapons.
Photos released by KCNA showed Kim pointing to areas around Seoul and the South Korean capital on a map.
In response to perceived security threats, Kim urged the military to conduct drills using the country’s latest weaponry and equipment to maintain combat readiness.
North Korea is scheduled to hold a militia parade on September 9 to mark the 75th anniversary of the Day of the Foundation of the Republic. The country utilizes various paramilitary groups to reinforce its military forces.
Meanwhile, the United States and South Korea have scheduled military drills from August 21 to 24. North Korea perceives these exercises as a threat to its security.
