In a clear sign of its military ambitions, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently visited a factory making new missiles. He walked through an automated production line, checking out the latest weaponry. This high-profile inspection came just as Kim prepared for a significant trip to China.
State media, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), reported on September 1, 2025, that Kim’s factory tour happened on a Sunday. The exact location of the factory was not shared. However, it is thought to be in Jangang Province, near the Chinese border, where many weapon facilities are found. Kim was joined by important party officials, including Jo Chun-ryong, a Party Secretary, and Kim Jong-sik, the First Vice Director of the Workers’ Party of Korea.
While at the factory, Kim made it clear that these modern production lines would greatly boost North Korea’s missile-making power and combat readiness. He felt the country was ready to expand its missile production, a goal set at a major party meeting back in early 2021. The KCNA also shared that Kim gave the green light for three new types of missiles and a defense budget plan.
Many observers are watching these moves closely. Experts suggest that Kim’s past visits to such facilities often hint at North Korea’s readiness to export weapons. There is speculation these could help Russia in its war in Ukraine. His journey to Beijing is set to include a major Chinese military parade, an event expected to draw both Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. This trip seems aimed at warming relations with Beijing, especially as people wonder if the Russia-Ukraine conflict might soon end.
