North Korea reshuffles military leadership, dismisses Defense Minister

North Korean state media reported significant changes to the country's military leadership on Sunday. During a meeting led by Kim Jong Un, Defense Minister No Kwang Chol was dismissed and demoted to the position of first vice director of the Munitions Industry Department.

Kim Song Gi, the director of the General Political Bureau of the Korean People's Army, has been appointed as the new Defense Minister. Additionally, defense advisor Pak Jong Chon was named vice president of the Central Military Commission and joined the ruling party's Political Bureau.

In a separate ceremony, Kim Jong Un honored scientists and officials for advancements in defense technology, noting their contributions to solving historical scientific and technological challenges in developing new combat weapon systems. This reorganization follows the conclusion of annual joint military exercises between South Korea and the United States.