By M. Abdullah Hamid Gul,
Kim Il-sung established the “Democratic People’s Republic of Korea” (DPRK) on September 9, 1948. The current leader, Kim Jong-un, belongs to the third generation of the Kim family and has been in power since 2011. Recently, Kim Jong-un regained control after achieving a significant victory in the 2026 parliamentary elections. He is known for his authoritarian rule, military might, and significant role in global politics, continually enhancing his military strength despite economic crises and challenges. North Korea possesses the world’s fourth-largest military, equipped with modern weaponry ranging from ballistic missiles to nuclear bombs, and has become a crucial strategic challenge globally.
North Korea became a member of the United Nations in 1991 and is also a member of the G7 and ASEAN. Its capital is Pyongyang. Kim Jong-un’s recent address at the 15th newly elected Supreme Assembly was more than just a formal speech; it was a comprehensive policy document reflecting the aspirations and priorities of the state for the next five years. This address outlined clear directions regarding internal stability, economic development, defense strategies, and international politics.
A prominent aspect of this speech is the concept of “self-reliance,” deemed fundamental to North Korea’s survival and development. Kim Jong-un emphasized that despite global pressure, sanctions, and economic difficulties, his country is progressing through its internal strength. This narrative aims not just to raise morale domestically but also sends a message to the international community that North Korea will not yield to external pressure. His stance on the nuclear program appeared stronger and more unequivocal than before, asserting that nuclear weapons are not only a defensive necessity but also a guarantee of the state’s sovereignty and survival.
According to him, the hegemony of global powers has forced smaller nations to adopt unconventional means for their protection. In this context, North Korea’s nuclear program serves not merely as a military strategy but also conveys a political message. In the economic realm, his address highlighted several important points, including prioritizing industrial development, agricultural improvement, energy sector strengthening, and infrastructure construction. The government’s claims regarding public welfare, housing, health, and education improvements indicate that the state does not wish to limit its credibility to military power alone but aims to enhance its performance on a public level, despite facing accusations of human rights violations, political repression, and restrictions on public freedoms.
North Korea’s activities are not confined to military and diplomatic fronts; it is also rapidly advancing in the field of cyber warfare. The emphasis on modern science and technology, particularly artificial intelligence and space research, shows that North Korea wishes to participate in the race of the modern world while remaining within its specific ideological framework, maintaining a hard stance regarding its foreign policy, particularly towards South Korea. However, it has also been indicated that North Korea desires to establish international relations that align with its interests. In his speech, Kim Jong-un hinted at increasing defense spending, with approximately 15.8% of the 2026 budget allocated for defense. It is a reality that the changing global politics, where the balance of power is shifting rapidly, is creating new opportunities for countries that know how to effectively utilize their positions. A deeper analysis of this speech reveals that North Korea is moving towards a model that simultaneously promotes its economy and military power. The electromagnetic weapons system and carbon fiber bombs are considered ‘special assets’ of the North Korean military. The use of cluster munitions marks a significant advancement, allowing a single missile to target a wide area, diminishing the effectiveness of defense systems. In fact, North Korea is learning from situations in Ukraine and the Middle East, where such weapons have transformed military strategies. This strategy, while not devoid of risks, can be seen in the current global context as a form of “defensive realism.”
It is important to note that after the failure of nuclear negotiations with U.S. President Donald Trump in 2019, North Korea accelerated its missile program capable of nuclear capabilities, enabling it to target U.S. allies in Asia as well as the U.S. mainland. Kim Jong-un’s address not only clarifies internal policies but also sends a clear message to global powers that North Korea will chart its own course, regardless of the difficulties it may face. The coming years will determine whether this strategy leads the country towards stability and development or results in further isolation and pressure.
Furthermore, recent developments in North Korea-China relations are particularly noteworthy. The visit of the Chinese Foreign Minister to Pyongyang not only strengthened diplomatic ties between the two countries but also indicated that this relationship has evolved into a strategic partnership rather than a mere formal one. The reminder of the 1961 defense agreement and the announcement to enhance mutual cooperation demonstrate that both countries are prepared to stand together in any potential global or regional conflict. Moreover, North Korea’s open support for the “One China Policy” is a significant diplomatic advancement. This move sends a clear message to the U.S. and its allies that the balance of power in Asia is rapidly shifting. On the other hand, if North Korea gains recognition as a nuclear power, it would represent a major global change. During this period, North Korea has also expanded its relations with Russia and Belarus. Is the world heading towards an environment reminiscent of a new Cold War, where competition continues in diplomatic, economic, and technological arenas rather than direct conflict? The Korean Peninsula has become an important piece on this global chessboard, and developments in the coming days will determine the direction of international politics. Overall, the current situation on the Korean Peninsula is not merely a regional issue but part of a larger global trend. The world seems to be dividing once again into two major blocs: on one side are countries like China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, while on the other side stand the United States and its allies. This coalition of China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran could emerge as an alternative bloc against Western powers, heralding a significant change in global politics. This shift will not only influence international relations but will also have repercussions in the fields of economy, trade, and security!