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North Korea plans to reopen its borders to international tourists in December 2024, specifically to the city of Samjiyon. This marks the first time since the pandemic began in 2020 that the country will welcome foreign visitors, following years of strict COVID-19 restrictions. Tour operators express excitement about the reopening.
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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a test of new 'suicide drones' designed to strike targets, including a mock South Korean K-2 battle tank. This demonstration comes amid heightened military tensions with South Korea and the U.S., as both nations conduct large-scale military drills.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin has gifted North Korean leader Kim Jong-un 24 purebred Orlov Trotters in exchange for artillery shells. This exchange, reported on September 2, 2024, highlights the strengthening ties between the two nations amid ongoing military cooperation.
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North Korean table tennis players Kim Kum-yong and Ri Jong-sik are reportedly under ideological scrutiny after posing for a selfie with South Korean athletes at the Paris Olympics. This incident has raised concerns about potential punishments for perceived inappropriate behavior, reflecting the regime's strict control over its athletes.
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On September 4, 2024, South Korea reported detecting North Korean balloons likely carrying trash, part of a retaliatory campaign against anti-Pyongyang propaganda. This follows a series of similar incidents, raising concerns about public safety and military responses.
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Ukraine's military intelligence chief, Kyrylo Budanov, highlights North Korea's significant military aid to Russia, surpassing other allies. This support includes artillery ammunition and ballistic missiles, raising concerns for Ukraine and its Western allies amid ongoing hostilities.
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As Japan prepares for the Liberal Democratic Party leadership election on September 27, nine candidates, including Shinjiro Koizumi and Shigeru Ishiba, are vying to succeed Fumio Kishida. Candidates are focusing on economic reforms, security issues, and addressing demographic challenges amid rising public discontent due to recent scandals.
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North Korea's Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un has showcased a uranium enrichment facility, revealing images of centrifuges for the first time since 2010. He emphasized the need to increase weapons-grade material production to confront perceived threats from the U.S. This visit underscores North Korea's ongoing commitment to its nuclear program amid stalled diplomatic efforts.