North Korea approaches completion of missile able to hit the U.S

North Korea, under the leadership of Kim Jong Un, is reportedly in the final stages of developing an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) that has the capability to strike the U.S. mainland. This information was shared by South Korean President Lee Jae Myung during an investment conference in New York, highlighting the critical state of North Korea's missile and nuclear programs as they continue their military advancements. These developments are causing significant concern on the global stage, particularly given North Korea's past underground nuclear tests, with the most recent occurring in 2017, and the speculation surrounding their nuclear arsenal's capacity. Experts' analyses suggest that North Korea has likely produced around 50 nuclear bombs and is persistently advancing its missile technology. Despite achieving a series of successful tests that indicate improvements in their missile capabilities, the regime is believed to still face challenges in developing a reliable system that can effectively deliver warheads to U.S. territory. The strategic focus of Kim Jong Un has intensified with calls for expanding North Korea's nuclear arsenal, allegedly in response to perceived threats chiefly from the United States and regional allies like South Korea and Japan. Recent communications from Kim emphasize that the nuclear deterrent capabilities of North Korea are fully operational, further highlighting the heightened tensions in international relations involving nuclear powers. This backdrop sets the stage for potential future engagements between the U.S. and North Korea, as President Donald Trump is scheduled to travel to South Korea for an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting. His visit may reignite discussions surrounding denuclearization and confront the ongoing threat posed by North Korea's military advancements.