According to South Korean intelligence, it is highly unlikely that North Korea will conduct any nuclear tests or launch new reconnaissance satellites by the end of this year. However, there is a possibility that they may do so in 2024. This information was reported by the Yonhap news agency, citing the vice chairman of the parliamentary intelligence committee from the ruling party, Yu Sang-bom.
The South Korean lawmaker stated that the country’s State Intelligence Service has not detected any signs of North Korea conducting its seventh nuclear test in the “near future.” He added that the likelihood of nuclear tests taking place in 2023 is considered low. However, in 2024, such tests could occur at any time if Kim Jong-un makes the decision. Regarding the launch of additional satellites by North Korea before the end of this year, it would be problematic, but the possibility of launching them next year “remains open.”
According to South Korean intelligence, the value of North Korea’s launched space vehicles remains low due to the limited usefulness of the information they provide for reconnaissance purposes.
On November 22nd, North Korea showcased photos of a successful reconnaissance satellite launch.
Previously, North Korea referred to the entry of a US submarine into South Korean waters as a “condition for the use of nuclear weapons.”
