Kim orders rapid drone buildout

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un directed his government to rapidly expand its drone capabilities on Thursday. He visited an exhibition featuring attack drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles. State media reported that Kim watched test launches of these new systems alongside missiles and rocket artillery.

The leader spoke at the display of recent technological achievements. He declared a need to seize absolute superiority in drone technology. Kim announced unspecified measures to strengthen the nation's unmanned aeronautical sector.

South Korean military officials detected approximately 10 short-range ballistic missiles launched from Wonsan on the eastern coast. These firings marked the first ballistic weapons tests by Pyongyang in 17 days. The South identified the launches on the same day Kim observed the drone demonstrations.

Tensions along the demilitarized zone have escalated since land mine blasts wounded three South Korean soldiers last month. Seoul accused North Korea of planting the mines south of the boundary line. Pyongyang denied responsibility and threatened retaliation if provoked.

North Korea recently threatened to resume propaganda broadcasts and install new weapons systems along the border. The country has also increased weapons testing activities in recent weeks. This surge in activity appears intended to boost leverage in potential future negotiations with the United States.

Diplomatic channels remain active despite the military posturing. Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis arrived in Pyongyang on Thursday to reopen Switzerland's diplomatic office. He is scheduled to travel to South Korea on Friday for further meetings.

Kim also visited a Chinese border town via a newly opened bridge on Saturday. The trip included a vow to deepen bilateral ties. North Korea has shifted focus toward strengthening its relationship with China after years of prioritizing military cooperation with Russia.