On November 4, 2026, Kim Jong Un, the top leader of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, inspected the Nampho Shipyard and called for a rapid upgrade of the country’s ship‑building capacity to forge a formidable navy. The visit, reported by the Korean Central News Agency, was framed as a direct response to the prevailing geopolitical climate and the DPRK’s perceived need to deter hostile actors.
During the inspection, Kim emphasized the importance of modernizing the shipyard’s production lines. The Nampho Shipyard, described in official statements as a key facility for developing advanced naval vessels, is reportedly progressing in the construction of a new warship. Kim said that the shipbuilding base must be “advanced and hi‑tech” to support the creation of a naval force that “no one can provoke.”
"The advanced and hi‑tech shipbuilding base is essential for building a powerful naval force which no one can provoke," Kim was quoted as saying during the visit.
Kim further stressed that the DPRK’s urgency to possess the most developed and powerful warship has been heightened by “the recent geopolitical environment and hostile acts of the enemies.” He argued that strengthening the navy would enable the nation to defend its sovereignty and deter all threats.
Following the visit, the state media highlighted the shipyard’s role in achieving national defence objectives. The call for an upgraded naval capability was portrayed as a strategic measure to ensure deterrence against foreign incursions and to safeguard the country’s sovereignty.
While no independent verification of the exact facilities inspected or the specific warships under construction was provided, the official coverage underscored the DPRK’s commitment to enhancing its maritime capabilities in the context of regional tensions.
