North Korean leader Kim Jong-un observed artillery units conducting live-fire drills at an undisclosed location on 23/7, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported today.
During the exercise, North Korean artillery units were directed to fire upon a maritime target designed to appear for a limited time. This activity aimed to "improve the firing capabilities" of North Korean artillery, according to KCNA.
![]() |
Kim Jong-un during the observation on 23/7. Photo: KCNA |
Kim Jong-un during the observation on 23/7. Photo: KCNA
Kim expressed satisfaction after observing the drills and urged artillery forces to further develop tactics "to adapt to the harsh and fierce battlefield environment that is changing daily.".
He also demanded the military intensify specialized training to be ready for "actual war" that could erupt at any time.
During a visit to the Ministry of National Defense in February, the North Korean leader designated 2025 as a year of military training and has since overseen numerous drills, emphasizing the need for specialized training and enhanced modern combat capabilities. In May, Kim also observed a similar artillery exercise.
Kim Jong-un frequently visits weapons manufacturing facilities and military bases within the country. During a recent inspection of a tank factory, he stated that North Korea is accelerating the modernization of its defense industry to establish large-scale production capabilities for modern tanks and self-propelled artillery.
Ngoc Anh (According to AFP, Yonhap)