Kim Jong Un's sister issues stern response to denuclearization calls

Kim Yo Jong, a close ally of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, sharply criticized ASEAN's support for U.S. calls for denuclearization. She argued that ASEAN's stance demonstrates a "lack of strategic thinking and logic," and a "foolish and irrational pursuit" of denuclearization that has long lost its practical meaning.

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It is evidence of a lack of strategic thinking and logic, as well as a foolish and irrational pursuit of denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, which has long lost its meaning in terms of both concept and practice.

Kim further cautioned ASEAN nations against becoming "paid spokespersons" for the United States. Her remarks followed ASEAN's expression of "great concern" over North Korea's nuclear program during a regional forum last week, where the organization urged dialogue for a nuclear-free Korean Peninsula.

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ASEAN should be wary of being used as a paid spokesperson for the U.S.

North Korea, despite facing UN Security Council sanctions, persists in advancing its nuclear and missile capabilities. In 2023, the country constitutionally solidified its status as a nuclear state. Kim Yo Jong, considered a key figure in North Korea's foreign policy, previously stated in June that the nation's nuclear status is "absolutely indisputable."

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The status of North Korea as a nuclear-weapon state is absolutely indisputable.