North Korea Rejects IAEA Calls for Denuclearization, Says Nuclear Status Is Irreversible

North Korea has rejected calls for its denuclearization at the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) 70th General Conference in Vienna, declaring that its status as a nuclear weapons state is irreversible. According to North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un, dismissed the discussions as “familiar silly talk” and said repeated international calls for denuclearization would have no impact on Pyongyang’s policies.

Kim Yo Jong said North Korea’s nuclear status was “absolute” and could not be reversed, arguing that meetings held by the IAEA and Western countries would not alter Pyongyang’s determination to take measures it considers necessary to protect its national interests. She also asserted that the country’s nuclear position had been permanently established both physically and legally, and that its growing military strength could not be reversed.

The remarks came after IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi told member states at the conference that North Korea’s nuclear weapons program violates UN Security Council resolutions. Grossi also warned about the risks associated with crossing international “red lines” through continued development of nuclear weapons. The latest exchange highlights the persistent divide between international efforts to achieve North Korea’s denuclearization and Pyongyang’s stated commitment to maintaining and developing its nuclear capabilities.