North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited a munitions plant, where he tested a new-type pistol alongside his daughter, Kim Ju Ae. The pair handled precision firearms during the inspection, both dressed in black leather jackets.
High Praise for Firearm Production
Kim peered down the pistol’s sights and called it “really excellent.” He ordered a new production line and highlighted the facility’s “very important role in increasing combat efficiency,” urging workers to boost output.
Kim Ju Ae’s Rising Profile
The 13-year-old Kim Ju Ae has made several public appearances, including testing sniper rifles and observing launches of missiles described as nuclear-capable from a destroyer deck. South Korean intelligence (NIS) reports indicate she is internally positioned as her father’s successor.
Warning Over Joint Military Drills
Kim’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, issued a statement criticizing the US-South Korea “Freedom Shield” exercises, which she described as reflecting an “inveterate repugnancy” toward North Korea. The 11-day drills, involving thousands of troops, began recently amid rising Middle East tensions.
Kim Yo Jong argued the maneuvers threaten regional peace as global security deteriorates with conflicts worldwide. Kim Jong Un has stated he would “completely destroy” rivals if they cross certain lines.
