(Institute for the Study of War)
North Korean politics: The WPK opened the 9th Party Congress with a focus on economic development and external security. The WPK removed key figures from its Central Committee as part of Kim Jong Un’s ongoing consolidation of power.
North Korea military modernization: North Korea is likely trying to improve its ability to penetrate the South Korean IAMD with SRBMs. That capability could enhance its nuclear deterrent and provide it with more vectors for precision fire.
Inter-Korean relations: The WPK welcomed South Korea’s acknowledgment of recent civilian drone incursions along the DMZ. The Lee administration may respond by further pursuing inter-Korean dialogue, though Pyongyang remains unlikely to respond positively.
