DPRK celebrates 'new era of space power'

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
24 Nov 2023 10:24
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DPRK leader Kim Jong Un celebrates the successful launch of a surveillance satellite, declaring it a "full-fledged exercise of the right to self-defense."

DPRK leader, Kim Jong Un, center, and his daughter, center left, pose with staff of the National Aerospace Technology Administration (NATA) for a group photo, following the launch of a surveillance satellite in Pyongyang, DPRK, on Nov. 23, 2023 (AP)

In a historic moment, DPRK leader Kim Jong Un celebrated the successful launch of the "Malligyong-1" military surveillance satellite, marking the nation's "new era of space power." State media reported the leader's enthusiastic involvement in the event, underscoring the importance of the achievement in ensuring the country's security.

The satellite, launched on Tuesday, represented DPRK's first successful launch, following two failed attempts in May and August. According to official statements, Kim Jong Un declared the launch a "full-fledged exercise of the right to self-defense" during his visit to the National Space Agency. The leader asserted that the newly deployed spy satellite would protect the DPRK from perceived threats posed by "dangerous and aggressive moves of the hostile forces."

Following the launch, South Korea confirmed its success but not the satellite's functionality. Meanwhile, it was reported that Kim Jong Un was already reviewing images of US military bases in Guam within hours of the launch.

South Korea suspends inter-Korean agreement

In response to the satellite launch, South Korea partially suspended the five-year-old inter-Korean military accord with DPRK and deployed surveillance and reconnaissance assets to the border. Pyongyang denounced Seoul's actions as "reckless" and announced a full suspension of the agreement, asserting that it "will never be bound" by it again.

A statement issued by Pyongyang emphasized that as a consequence of this withdrawal, the DPRK would be fortifying its border with South Korea. This move indicates an intent to resume all military measures that were previously halted under the CMA, thereby heightening concerns about increased military tension along the shared border.

Experts have highlighted that the successful placement of a working surveillance satellite in orbit significantly enhances DPRK's intelligence. The deployment is seen as a critical development in providing crucial data in potential military conflicts, further emphasizing DPRK's commitment to advancing its space power capabilities.