North Korea rejects IAEA nuclear criticism

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, September 20, 2026

North Korea condemned the IAEA’s criticism of its nuclear program as biased and politically motivated, accusing the agency of double standards while reaffirming its irreversible nuclear status. Meanwhile, Kim Jong-un inspected munitions factories to advance military modernization, with reports linking these efforts to Russian support and combat experience gained in Ukraine.

North Korea has strongly rejected criticism from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) over its nuclear weapons program, with Kim Yo-jong, sister of leader Kim Jong-un, accusing the agency of applying double standards. In a statement released through state media KCNA on Sunday, Kim Yo-jong condemned the IAEA’s resolution, calling its criticism biased and blaming it for undermining the international nuclear non-proliferation framework.

Kim Yo-jong specifically accused the agency of ignoring what she described as “blatant nuclear proliferation activities” by the United States and the planned introduction of nuclear-powered submarines by South Korea, while targeting North Korea’s nuclear efforts, which she characterized as lawful self-defense measures. The statement emphasized that the IAEA’s approach was unjust and politically motivated.

In a separate statement, North Korea’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the resolution, affirming the country’s status as an irreversible nuclear power supported by its nuclear deterrence capabilities.

Meanwhile, KCNA reported that Kim Jong-un conducted a three-day inspection of key munitions factories this week, highlighting ongoing efforts to modernize all aspects of the country’s defense forces. According to the report, Kim said these initiatives are producing significant changes in the structure and capabilities of North Korea’s military.

Observers note that Pyongyang’s military overhaul has reportedly been supported by Russia since the two nations signed a mutual defense treaty in 2024. Additionally, North Korean troops’ involvement in the conflict in Ukraine has provided combat experience that may be contributing to these developments.

On Friday, Kim Jong-un also delivered a lecture to participants in a propaganda workers’ training session in Pyongyang, calling for a more innovative, creative, and aggressive approach to ideological warfare, rather than relying on traditional methods.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.