North Korea's Kim Jong Un Inspects New Missile Factory Ahead China Visit

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently inspected a newly established ballistic missile factory ahead of his planned visit to Beijing to attend China's military parade alongside Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. State media reported that Kim approved three long-term plans for missile production and increased defense spending, signaling a firm commitment to advancing the country's missile capabilities despite international sanctions. The modernized and partially automated production line is expected to enhance North Korea's ability to rapidly produce missiles and improve the combat readiness of key missile units. Experts note that sanctions targeting North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programs have been less effective due to growing support from Russia and China. Additionally, North Korea has been providing military support, including soldiers and missiles, to Russia in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Kim's visit underscores Pyongyang's strategic focus on military development as it engages in multilateral diplomatic events.