Security
North Korea Builds New Two-Story Uranium Enrichment Facility
BBC · 2 weeks ago · Read the Full Story on BBC
AI SUMMARY
The IAEA reported that North Korea has constructed a new two-story uranium enrichment facility at the Yongbyon nuclear complex, drawing international concern.
- The International Atomic Energy Agency reported that North Korea has constructed a new two-story uranium enrichment facility.
- The new structure is part of the Yongbyon nuclear complex and can house up to 28 centrifuge banks.
- IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi described the expansion as a clear violation of UN Security Council resolutions.
- The IAEA relies on satellite imagery for its assessments because it has not had inspectors in North Korea since 2009.
- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspected a new nuclear material production facility at Yongbyon on June 3.
- A 2022 expert report estimated that Kim spends $640 million annually on clandestine nuclear weapons development.
- Oxford University lecturer Edward Howell noted that hidden nuclear facilities make targeting North Korea's program difficult.
- The IAEA previously reported operations and a new annex built in 2024 at another uranium enrichment facility in Kangson.
- North Korea has conducted six nuclear weapons tests and launched several intercontinental ballistic missiles since 2017.
- South Korea proposed new talks in August to address these security concerns and is awaiting a response.
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