IAEA head reports significant expansion of North Korean nuclear facilities

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi announced on Wednesday that North Korea has significantly expanded its nuclear weapon production capabilities. Speaking in Seoul, Grossi confirmed increased activity at the Yongbyon nuclear complex, including the 5-megawatt reactor, a reprocessing unit, and a light water reactor. The agency also observed the construction of a new facility exhibiting characteristics similar to known uranium enrichment halls at Yongbyon and Kangson. These developments suggest a strategic move to increase the production of weapons-grade material beyond spent plutonium. Experts estimate North Korea currently possesses a few dozen nuclear warheads. While the DPRK banned IAEA inspectors in 2009, the agency continues to monitor activities via external observation. The findings indicate a systematic effort by Pyongyang to strengthen its nuclear arsenal in defiance of long-standing UN sanctions. Grossi emphasized that these advancements represent a very serious escalation in the regional security situation.