00:21North Korea has carried out a new series of weapons tests under the direct supervision
00:27of leader Kim Jong-un, and the developments are raising fresh concerns across the Korean Peninsula.
00:35According to state media, KCNA, the tests were conducted on May 26, 2026,
00:44with results released a day later showcasing multiple advanced tactical weapons systems.
00:51Among the systems tested were short-range ballistic missiles,
00:55long-range multiple rocket launchers, and a new generation of tactical cruise missiles.
01:01But the most significant development was the introduction of what North Korea is calling
01:07AI-guided cruise missile technology.
01:10These missiles are reportedly designed to improve targeting accuracy using automated navigation systems,
01:18allowing strikes at distances of up to 100 kilometers.
01:22South Korean military sources confirmed that multiple projectiles were detected during the tests,
01:30including a short-range ballistic missile that traveled approximately 80 kilometers before landing in the Yellow Sea.
01:38The launch site was identified in North Pyongan Province, though exact locations were not disclosed.
01:45Kim Jong-un personally oversaw the tests, observing missile launches and performance evaluations on site.
01:54State media reports that he praised the new systems for meeting modern warfare conditions
02:00and emphasized strengthening frontline deployment near the border with South Korea.
02:05He also reportedly ordered the rapid integration of the upgraded cruise missiles into operational units.
02:13The introduction of AI-based targeting has drawn particular attention from military analysts.
02:20While North Korea has previously claimed advances in missile precision,
02:25this marks one of the first times it has publicly referenced artificial intelligence in its weapons systems.
02:32Experts caution that the term AI may include a mix of automated guidance, terrain mapping and enhanced navigation systems,
02:42rather than fully autonomous targeting.
02:45Still, the strategic implications are significant.
02:48These systems are designed to strengthen North Korea's short-range strike capability,
02:54particularly in a potential conflict scenario on the Korean Peninsula,
02:59where Seoul lies within range of many of these weapons.
03:03The tests come amid continued regional tensions and a steady pace of weapons demonstrations by Pyongyang throughout 2025 and 2026.
03:14For South Korea, the United States and Japan, the developments are being closely monitored,
03:21as each new test adds another layer to an already complex security situation in the region.
03:28While independent verification remains limited,
03:32Allied monitoring systems confirmed that missile launches did take place as reported,
03:37and once again, North Korea is signaling the same message.
03:42Its weapons program is evolving, and its reach is growing.
03:46the human-infollowing.
03:48...
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