UN watchdog warns North Korea boosting nuclear weapons capacity

Thursday, April 16, 2026 - International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi has warned that North Korea has made “very serious” progress in its nuclear weapons programme, citing increased activity and possible expansion of uranium enrichment facilities.

Speaking in Seoul, Grossi pointed to a surge in operations at the Yongbyon nuclear complex, including its 5-megawatt reactor, reprocessing unit and light water reactor. These developments, he said, indicate a significant boost in the country’s ability to produce nuclear weapons material.

“All of them point to a very serious increase in the capabilities of the DPRK in the area of nuclear weapons production,” Grossi said.

He also revealed that the agency had observed construction of a new facility resembling uranium enrichment plants at Yongbyon, suggesting a major expansion in capacity. Satellite imagery analysis by the Center for Strategic and International Studies supports this assessment, indicating the possible completion of a new enrichment site capable of producing weapons-grade material.

North Korea’s nuclear arsenal is currently estimated to consist of several dozen warheads, with uranium enrichment offering an alternative route to weapons-grade material alongside plutonium reprocessing.

Despite concerns about international cooperation, Grossi noted that there is no evidence so far of Russian technology being used in North Korea’s weapons programme, although monitoring is ongoing. “Moving towards nuclear weapons would never give any country increased security,” he warned, adding that such actions could instead trigger wider proliferation.

The IAEA chief also addressed South Korea’s plans to develop nuclear-powered submarines, urging close collaboration to prevent proliferation risks. He emphasised the need for strict safeguards, particularly as nuclear fuel used in naval reactors can remain uninspected for long periods.

South Korean officials reaffirmed their commitment to transparency and cooperation under international non-proliferation agreements, as discussions with the IAEA on the submarine programme are set to begin.