Kim Jong-un emphasized the need for military training focused on modern warfare during his visit to the Kang Kon Military Academy, following a similar inspection at Kim Il Sung University. This push aligns with North Korea’s strategy to enhance military readiness amidst evolving global security challenges. Additionally, the South Korean Unification Ministry noted ongoing economic struggles while predicting increased military activities this year.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un visited a junior officer training academy in Pyongyang on Tuesday, stressing the importance of teaching soldiers the realities of “modern warfare,” as reported by state media on Wednesday. This visit follows his inspection of Kim Il Sung University of Politics and reflects an intent to strengthen military discipline early in the year.
During his time at the Kang Kon Military Academy, Kim emphasized the necessity of adapting to the current global security landscape, where conflict is prevalent. He outlined essential tasks for students, urging them to become dependable battlefield leaders by learning from modern warfare tactics, particularly in the context of North Korean strategy, as well as mastering advanced weaponry and combat techniques.
Kim’s focus on the “actual experiences of modern warfare” may indicate North Korea’s desire to apply lessons derived from the ongoing war in Ukraine. Experts, such as Yang Moo-jin, interpret these military inspections as a bid to maintain stability within the armed forces, which are vital for enforcing his policies and facilitating both defense and economic initiatives.
The Kang Kon Military Academy, named after the first Chief of Staff of the Korean People’s Army, prepares graduates as junior infantry commanders. South Korea’s Unification Ministry announced regarding North Korea’s potential military increase in 2023, aligning with Kim’s declaration of a “Year of Training,” which emphasizes adaptation to modern warfare standards.
Unification Minister Kim Yung-ho noted that while North Korea is advancing domestic economic projects, key economic indicators reveal ongoing challenges, particularly with trade levels yet to recuperate to pre-sanction figures. Meanwhile, cooperation between North Korea and Russia continues to evolve, with recent agreements suggesting deeper political ties and mutual support unconventional to changing international dynamics.
Kim Jong-un’s recent visits to military training institutions underscore his commitment to preparing North Korea’s military for contemporary challenges, emphasizing the need for education in modern warfare. As plans for increased military activities coincide with domestic economic initiatives, North Korea faces ongoing economic hurdles, reflected in its trade relations. Strengthening ties with Russia signals an ongoing strategic partnership that may influence regional stability.
Original Source: koreajoongangdaily.joins.com
