North Korea s Kim Yo Jong Warns of Military Action Over Japan’s War State Shift
Poinews.com – North Korea s Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of leader Kim Jong Un, has issued a forceful warning about potential military responses to Japan’s evolving defense posture. Speaking on Wednesday, she described Tokyo’s recent moves as a significant “transformation into a war state.” This declaration comes as Japan continues to strengthen its Pacific military presence through increased defense spending and expanded international alliances.
The statement, broadcast by North Korean state media, outlined Pyongyang’s intention to implement new military measures in direct response to Japan’s changing approach. According to the Korean Central News Agency, Kim Yo Jong’s remarks included pointed criticism of Tokyo’s historical role in regional conflicts and its current trajectory.
“Japan, a war criminal state, is accelerating its transformation into a war state,” the official statement declared.
Kim Yo Jong referenced several recent developments to support her concerns. These included Japan’s test launch of Tomahawk cruise missiles and participation in American-led military exercises in the Philippines during May. She emphasized that these actions demonstrate Washington’s continued support for aggressive Pacific strategies. Additionally, she noted that Tokyo is actively working to develop offensive military capabilities.
“Tokyo is moving ‘to formulate the possession of the capability for pre-emptive attack’,” she explained in her statement.
North Korea s Kim Yo Jong made clear that Pyongyang would not passively observe these developments. “We will never remain a passive onlooker to the military evolution of Japan which may pose a grave threat,” she asserted. Japan’s defense ministry confirmed to AFP that the recent missile test represented the nation’s first attempt at this type of launch. The defense minister stressed the importance of maintaining a “sense of urgency and crisis” following a new security assessment that highlighted growing threats from neighboring nations.
Historical Context and Regional Security Concerns
Historical tensions continue to shape current relations between the two nations. Japan’s occupation of Korea before its 1945 surrender and the subsequent division along the 38th parallel remain relevant to contemporary diplomatic discussions. The legacy of colonial rule still influences foreign policy decisions on both sides of the Korean Peninsula.
“If the descendants of militarism, who have inherited the genes of cunning and aggression, have seized deadly weapons in their hands, something unpleasant will happen,” Kim Yo Jong’s statement concluded.
Since hosting United States military bases following World War II, Japan has substantially increased its defense expenditure. In 2025, spending rose by 9.7 percent to reach $62.2 billion, equivalent to €53.9 billion, representing 1.4 percent of GDP—the highest proportion since 1958. China, which maintains an alliance with Pyongyang, shares concerns about what it describes as Japan’s “new militarism.” Regional tensions intensified after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested in November that Japanese forces might respond to Chinese military movements against Taiwan.
Meanwhile, North Korea continues to maintain its position as an “irreversible” nuclear power, a status that was reinforced following the unsuccessful 2019 summit between Kim Jong Un and former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly did North Korea s Kim Yo Jong say about Japan? Kim Yo Jong described Japan as a “war criminal state” that is accelerating its transformation into a “war state.” She warned that North Korea would not remain passive if Japan continues developing offensive military capabilities, particularly the ability to conduct pre-emptive attacks.
Why is Japan considered to be moving toward a war state? Japan is increasing its defense budget, testing new missile systems like the Tomahawk cruise missiles, participating in U.S.-led military exercises, and developing capabilities for pre-emptive strikes. These actions, combined with historical tensions, have led North Korea to characterize Japan’s shift as a move toward a war state.
How much has Japan increased its defense spending? In 2025, Japan’s defense expenditure rose by 9.7 percent to reach $62.2 billion (€53.9 billion), which represents 1.4 percent of GDP. This is the highest proportion of GDP allocated to defense since 1958.
What role does China play in these regional tensions? China is an ally of North Korea and shares concerns about Japan’s “new militarism.” Tensions escalated after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested that Japanese forces might respond to Chinese military actions against Taiwan, potentially drawing China into a broader regional conflict.
When did North Korea declare itself an irreversible nuclear power? North Korea solidified its status as an “irreversible” nuclear power following the failed 2019 summit between Kim Jong Un and Donald Trump, which had aimed to achieve denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.
