By Micah Jonah, February 26, 2026
North Korean leader, Kim Jong Un has ruled out dialogue with South Korea, warning that his military could completely destroy the country, while stating that improved relations with the United States would depend on Washington abandoning what he described as hostile policies towards Pyongyang.
Speaking at the conclusion of the Ninth Congress of the Workers’ Party of Korea, Kim said the United States must respect North Korea’s constitutional status as a nuclear armed state and withdraw its hostile stance if relations are to improve. He added that there would be no obstacle to better ties if those conditions were met.
According to the state run Korean Central News Agency, Kim called for the development of new weapons systems to strengthen the country’s nuclear capabilities. He referenced intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of being launched from underwater and an expanded stockpile of tactical nuclear weapons designed to target South Korea.
Kim said North Korea’s accelerated missile and nuclear development had permanently cemented its status as a nuclear armed state, describing its weapons as a guarantee of national security and a deterrent against potential threats.
South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency reported that the once every five years party congress concluded with a large military parade in Pyongyang. State media images showed soldiers marching through Kim Il Sung Square as Kim stood alongside senior officials and his daughter, Kim Ju Ae. Military aircraft conducted a fly past, though it was not immediately clear whether major weapons systems were displayed.
The appearance of Kim Ju Ae at the parade has drawn attention amid speculation about a possible future leadership role.
Tensions on the Korean Peninsula remain high as North Korea continues to expand its nuclear and missile programmes while relations with both Seoul and Washington remain strained.
