N. Korea may be ready for 'short notice' nuclear test, seeks tacit recognition as nuclear power: U.S.

Meanwhile U.S. intelligence authorities believe North Korea is most likely prepared to carry out a nuclear test on quote "short notice".

Lee Seung-jae has details.

North Korea may be ready to conduct a nuclear test "on short notice."

That's according to the Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, who made the remark while addressing Congress on the 2025 Annual Threat Assessment of the U.S. Intelligence Community.

While assessing security challenges from China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and others, she stressed that Pyongyang is likely prepared to conduct its 7th nuclear test.

She added that the regime continues to flight test ICBMs to "demonstrate their increasing capabilities as leverage in future negotiations."

Her comments are in line with Seoul's assessment that the North has already completed preparations for another nuclear test.

Pyongyang last conducted a nuclear test in 2017.

The director also noted that the regime is looking to achieve "at least tacit recognition" as a nuclear power, as North Korean leader Kim Jong-un pursues, "stronger strategic and conventional capabilities that can target U.S. forces and allies in the region, as well as the U.S. homeland."

She added that through such weapons, North Korea is looking to bolster its leverage and stature.

Gabbard said those goals are being supported by a strategic partnership with Russia, which gives the regime greater financial, military, and diplomatic assistance.

She also said the deployment of North Korean troops to the Kursk region is providing the regime with "authentic warfighting experience."

Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.