North Korean leader Kim Jong Un declared that his country's nuclear weapons status is irreversible during a recent speech, while also issuing threats directed at South Korea.

In his remarks, Kim expressed satisfaction with North Korea's nuclear weapons and missile development programs that have expanded rapidly in recent years. The North Korean leader characterized the country's nuclear weapons development as the "right" choice for the nation.

Kim's comments represent the latest in a series of statements emphasizing North Korea's commitment to maintaining and expanding its nuclear capabilities. The declaration of an "irreversible" nuclear status signals the regime's intention to permanently retain its weapons program despite international sanctions and diplomatic pressure.

The speech included specific threats toward South Korea, though details of those threats were not elaborated in the available reports. This follows a pattern of escalating rhetoric from Pyongyang toward its southern neighbor in recent months.

North Korea has conducted numerous missile tests and nuclear weapons development activities over the past several years, drawing condemnation from the international community and resulting in multiple rounds of United Nations sanctions.