Is Kim Jong-un Really Planning an Attack This Time?
An Analysis of North Korea's Recent Rhetoric and Actions
By Stella Kim and Mithil Aggarwal
SEOUL, South Korea – April 2, 2024 at 5:39 PM PDT – After decades of empty threats, much of the world tunes out when North Korea vows to unleash destruction on its enemies. But in the past few months, some prominent experts have begun to worry that the country may be preparing for a real war.
The concern stems from a series of recent statements and actions by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. In a speech to the country's military on April 1, Kim said that now is the time to be "more prepared for war than ever." He also ordered the military to conduct a series of drills, including a simulated nuclear attack on the United States.
These statements and actions have raised concerns that North Korea may be planning a preemptive attack against the United States or its allies. Some experts believe that Kim may be trying to use the war in Ukraine as a distraction, while others believe that he may be genuinely convinced that war is the only way to protect his country.
Whatever Kim's motives, there is no doubt that the situation on the Korean Peninsula is becoming increasingly dangerous. The United States and its allies must take all necessary steps to deter North Korea from taking any aggressive action, while also preparing for the possibility of war.
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