TOKYO (Sputnik) — The order was made during Kim's visit to the Chemical Material Institute of the Academy of Defense Science, according to Yonhap News Agency, which cites the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). However, the date of the visit has not been provided.
The institute is reportedly engaged in the production of solid-fuel rocket engines and rocket warhead tips as well as carbon materials used for engines.
The situation on the Korean peninsula has become aggravated in recent months due to a series of missile launches and nuclear tests conducted by Pyongyang in violation of UN Security Council resolutions. On July 4 and July 28, Pyongyang conducted tests of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). On August 5, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2371, which further tightens sanctions imposed on North Korea.
Following Trump's statement, Pyongyang said it was considering an attack near the Pacific island of Guam, where several US military bases are located. However, later, North Korea’s state media reported that its leader had decided to wait and see what the United States does next.
On Tuesday, US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said that Washington hoped that the level of restraint North Korea had demonstrated after the new UN Security Council resolution could lead to dialogue with Pyongyang in the near future.