North Korea insists it will never relinquish nuclear weapons at UN assembly
- North Korea's Vice Foreign Minister reaffirmed the country's commitment to its nuclear arsenal during a speech at the UN General Assembly.
- Kim Son Gyong stated that denuclearization demands would undermine North Korean sovereignty.
- The address highlighted North Korea's perception of military threats from the U.S. and its allies, reinforcing its stance on nuclear deterrence.
In New York on September 30, 2025, North Korea's Vice Foreign Minister Kim Son Gyong addressed the United Nations General Assembly, asserting his country's commitment to its nuclear arsenal. This event marked the first participation by a senior North Korean diplomat in the assembly since 2018, following years of tense relations characterized by failed denuclearization talks with the United States. During his 16-minute speech, Kim emphasized that North Korea's nuclear capabilities are essential for its survival and sovereignty, directly linking them to supposed threats from U.S. military exercises involving Japan and South Korea. He claimed that denuclearization would equate to an unacceptable surrender of sovereignty. Kim's statements were part of a broader argument for North Korea's right to develop its weapons as a means of ensuring national security. He reiterated the importance of maintaining this capability, which has been constitutionally enshrined since 2022, describing it as a sacred element of state law and policy. Simultaneously, Kim offered a conditional openness to dialogue with nations willing to engage respectfully, citing a potential willingness from South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and hopes expressed by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding future discussions. The backdrop to this address is significant, as heightened military cooperation between the United States, Japan, and South Korea has intensified tensions in the region. Kim pointed to these joint military exercises as provocations that exacerbate insecurity on the Korean peninsula. He framed North Korea's nuclear armament as a defensive measure, necessary to deter aggression. Additionally, the speech included a critical commentary on global governance, calling for reform at the United Nations to ensure better representation of developing states. Kim condemned the dominance of a few nations in shaping international norms and policies, which he suggested leads to the infringement of sovereignty for countries like North Korea. In conclusion, Kim's address served to reinforce North Korea's position on nuclear weapons while signaling a readiness for engagement, contingent upon the recognition of its national interests.