Overview
- Lee disclosed the assessment at a New Year news conference, describing sustained fissile production that he characterized in unusually specific terms.
- He said Pyongyang is advancing long‑range ballistic missile technology intended to reach the U.S. mainland.
- He warned that once the regime deems its arsenal sufficient, surplus weapons‑grade material could be exported, creating a broader proliferation risk.
- He proposed an initial freeze that suspends nuclear material output, halts ICBM development and blocks overseas transfers, and said he relayed this plan to Presidents Trump and Xi.
- His offers of talks without preconditions have gone unanswered, and tensions increased after North Korea accused the South of a drone incursion into Kaesong as a local man claimed responsibility.