Recent satellite images indicate North Korea is actively producing plutonium and uranium, as reported by Daily NK. The images, captured by Maxar, show significant activity at the Yongbyon nuclear complex, a facility targeted by U.S. sanctions.
Thermal infrared imagery from May 14 reveals coolant discharge into the Kuryong River, marking the 11th such occurrence this year, and high energy releases from the radiochemical laboratory and uranium enrichment plant, suggesting these sites are operational. Supporting this, NASA’s Landsat 8 satellite imagery shows elevated temperatures at Yongbyon, consistent with processing spent fuel rods into plutonium and producing highly enriched uranium.
The images align with previous findings, including a September 2021 report showing Yongbyon’s expansion to potentially increase weapons-grade nuclear material production by 25%. Weapons expert Jeffrey Lewis noted this expansion reflects North Korea’s intent to boost its nuclear capabilities, allowing for more uranium enrichment.
The International Atomic Energy Agency echoed these concerns, identifying troubling signs of reactor reactivation. These developments coincide with North Korea’s missile tests and engine trials, as leader Kim Jong Un emphasizes enhancing the nuclear arsenal, continuing to defy UN Security Council resolutions and heightening global security tensions.
