Overview
- Kim, in a Monday speech to the Supreme People’s Assembly, labeled South Korea the most hostile state, warned of a merciless response to any provocation, and said the North’s nuclear status is irreversible.
- The assembly passed a revised constitution with no changes disclosed, a move analysts say preserves flexibility as the North shifts toward hostile coexistence with the South.
- Lawmakers approved the 2026 budget with defense raised to 15.8% of spending and money directed to expand nuclear deterrence and war‑fighting capabilities.
- Kim was reelected President of State Affairs on Sunday at the session’s start, and state media reported changes to the State Affairs Commission that expanded its size while keeping membership details scarce.
- South Korea’s presidential office and unification ministry urged dialogue and peaceful coexistence in response, and coverage across outlets noted the SPA functions as a rubber‑stamp body that formalizes pre‑set policy.