SEOUL 15 April 2026 (The Capital Post) – North Korea is significantly increasing its nuclear weapons production capacity, according to the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), amid growing concerns over the country’s expanding nuclear programme.
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said in a recent briefing that activity at several key nuclear facilities in North Korea has intensified, indicating a clear acceleration in weapons-related development.
He highlighted increased operations at the Yongbyon nuclear complex, including the reactor, reprocessing unit, and associated facilities, which together suggest a stronger push toward expanding fissile material production.
Grossi warned that these developments point to a sustained effort by Pyongyang to strengthen its nuclear arsenal despite ongoing international sanctions and diplomatic pressure. He added that the agency continues to monitor the situation closely, although access to North Korea’s nuclear sites remains extremely limited.
Recent satellite analysis has also indicated the completion of a suspected uranium enrichment facility at Yongbyon, which experts believe could significantly boost the country’s ability to produce weapons-grade material.
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Analysts estimate that North Korea already possesses a small but growing nuclear arsenal and continues to improve its missile delivery systems, raising concerns among neighbouring countries and global security agencies.
The latest warning comes amid heightened tensions in the region, as North Korea continues to conduct weapons tests and strengthen its military posture while rejecting calls for denuclearisation.
Observers say the ongoing developments underscore the challenge faced by the international community in curbing North Korea’s nuclear ambitions, as diplomatic efforts remain stalled.-The Capital Post