The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) has issued a stark warning against Japan's alleged pursuit of nuclear weapons, calling it "an open challenge to international law" in a statement released through state media on December 22, 2025. The Institute for Japan Studies under the DPRK's foreign ministry accused Tokyo of systematically dismantling post-war security frameworks through recent military policy revisions.
Key concerns center on Japan's reported moves to strengthen preemptive strike capabilities, relax arms export restrictions, and reconsider its Three Non-Nuclear Principles. "This isn't mere rhetoric but concrete evidence of Japan's nuclear ambitions," the statement emphasized, drawing parallels with the country's wartime history.
Analysts note the timing coincides with heightened regional security debates as Asian nations grapple with evolving defense postures. The DPRK's statement warned that nuclear armament of Japan – designated a "war criminal state" – could trigger catastrophic consequences for Asia and global stability.
While Japan maintains its commitment to non-proliferation treaties, the DPRK urged "peace-loving nations" to prevent any nuclearization attempts. The development comes amid ongoing discussions about security architecture in Northeast Asia, particularly following recent APEC members' dialogues on arms control.
