Kim Jong-Un Orders Expansion Of Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Launch Site To Become Ultramodern Advanced Base

JAKARTA - North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has called for expanding an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch site into an "ultramodern advanced base" to become a space power, state media KCNA reported on Friday.

Leader Kim made the remarks during a visit to the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground, which has been used to place satellites in orbit, but also for various tests involving missile technology.

That includes static rocket engines and space launch vehicles that South Korean and US officials say require technology similar to that used in ICBMs.

The KCNA report coincides with South Korea and the United States jointly announcing North Korea used a new ICBM in two recent weapons tests, with the possible intention of firing it under the guise of launching a space vehicle.

Leader Kim inspected the base, ordering its modernization and expansion to ensure that "various rockets can be launched to carry multipurpose satellites, including military reconnaissance satellites," the KCNA report said.

"It is a noble task, to transform the launch pad, which is linked to our country's great dreams and ambitions for a space power, into a sophisticated ultramodern base and the starting line of space conquest for the future," said Kim Jong-un.