Kim Jong Un flaunts capabilities, promises 'unstoppable military power'

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has vowed to develop even more powerful means of deterrence, according to a statement released by the North Korean government. 

Kim has vowed to build up "overwhelming" and unstoppable military power, just days after the DPRK launched its largest intercontinental ballistic missile. The North Korean leader stated after the launch that his country would keep developing a "nuclear war deterrent" while preparing for a "long-standing confrontation" with the US.

"Only when one is equipped with the formidable striking capabilities, overwhelming military power that cannot be stopped by anyone, one can prevent a war, guarantee the security of the country and contain and put under control all threats and blackmails by the imperialists," Kim said, according to the report.

Pyongyang had performed 11 missile launches this year, more than in the whole year of 2021. According to US, South Korean, and Japanese sources, two of North Korea's recent launches included components of the country's next-generation intercontinental ballistic missile system. 

Some pundits believe Kim could soon conduct another ICBM launch, a launch of a satellite-carrying rocket as he works to perfect his weapons and rocket technology, as well as increase pressure on the United States.