North Korea confirms test of new combat weapon system overseen by Kim Jong Un

On September 20, 2026, North Korea conducted a test of a new combat weapon system, as confirmed by state media on September 22. The test was overseen by leader Kim Jong Un, who praised it as a demonstration of advanced defense technology. South Korea and Japan had earlier detected two short-range ballistic missile launches from the Wonsan area. In response, the foreign ministers of South Korea, the United States, and Japan met in New York and called on North Korea to resume dialogue, reaffirming their commitment to denuclearization.