North Korea expands uranium enrichment infrastructure, IAEA warns

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reported that North Korea is expanding its uranium enrichment infrastructure. According to the watchdog, a new two-storey facility has been constructed at the Yongbyon nuclear complex, which is capable of accommodating up to 28 centrifuge cascades.

In addition to the developments at Yongbyon, the IAEA identified that an expanded annex at the Kangson uranium enrichment facility near Pyongyang began operating in January 2024. These activities indicate a steady expansion of the country's sanctioned nuclear infrastructure.

IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi expressed “serious concern” regarding the production of weapons-grade nuclear material, noting that these developments violate United Nations Security Council resolutions. Because the IAEA has not had inspectors on the ground in North Korea since 2009, the agency's findings are based on satellite imagery and publicly available information, including state media photographs.