North Korean state media has released photos of Kim Jong Un 's tour of a major munitions factory, which he hailed as central to the country's military modernization, state media reported.

The inspection took place ahead of his trip to China, his first in over six years, to attend a military parade in Beijing.

Why It Matters

North Korea has steadily expanded its United Nations–sanctioned strategic weapons programs in recent years, developing ballistic missiles capable of reaching the continental United States, maneuverable hypersonic weapons, and systems designed to carry nuclear warheads.

North Korea's frequent missile tests have become a key driver of tensions with South Korea. Kim insists the arsenal is a guarantor of national security, pointing to North Korea-focused security c

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