This annotated chronology is based on the data sources that follow each entry. Public sources often provide conflicting information on classified military programs. In some cases we are unable to resolve these discrepancies, in others we have deliberately refrained from doing so to highlight the potential influence of false or misleading information as it appeared over time. In many cases, we are unable to independently verify claims. Hence in reviewing this chronology, readers should take into account the credibility of the sources employed here.
Inclusion in this chronology does not necessarily indicate that a particular development is of direct or indirect proliferation significance. Some entries provide international or domestic context for technological development and national policymaking. Moreover, some entries may refer to developments with positive consequences for nonproliferation.
According to Japan Defense Agency sources, North Korea produces 10 Nodong-1 missiles. [Note: See entries for 1997 and 2 January 1999.]
--"Report: North Korea Deploying Medium-Range Missiles," Associated Press, 2 January 1999, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Kyodo News Service, 2 January 1999, in "North Korea Deploying, Exporting Medium-Range Missiles – Japanese Report," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 2 January 1999, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, < class="offsite" target="_blank"http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
North Korea merges its Scud missile regiment with its Nodong missile battalion to form a Missile Division. All ballistic missile units in North Korea are reportedly subordinate to the Missile Division.
—Kim Min Sŏk, "Puk Missile Kiji Kyesok Chŭngsŏl," Joongang Ilbo, 6 March 2001, p. 8, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
Vietnam reportedly obtains a small number of Hwasŏng-6 missiles from North Korea, as well as North Korean-made SA-16 Gimlet (9K310 Igla) surface-to-air missiles (SAMs).
—Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., "A History of Ballistic Missile Development in the DPRK," Occasional Paper No. 2, Center for Nonproliferation Studies, November 1999, p. 19.
The National Council of Resistance of Iran, an organization opposed to the current Iranian government, says that Chinese and North Korean technical personnel have assisted Iran in producing medium-range ballistic missiles, as well as increasing their range to 1,400km. The group claims there are "dozens of North Korean and Chinese missile experts" at Iran's Hermat Missile Industrial Complex. The report is said to be based on "unidentified sources within the Iranian government."
—Kyodo News Service, "China, N. Korea Allegedly Helping Iran Develop Missiles," Japan Economic Newswire, 8 January 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
The Washington Times reports that North Korea "has sold missiles and perhaps other military equipment to Iraq."
—Richard Halloran, "U.S. Keeps Eye on North Korea During Iraq Crisis," Washington Times, 23 February 1998, p. A11, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >.
A senior US Defense Department official says that North Korea has deployed at least one Nodong-1 ballistic missile.
—Akinori Uchida, "U.S. Official Says N. Korea Deployed Rodong Missile," Daily Yomiuri, 26 February 1998, p. 1, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
The Pentagon denies a report in the Yomiuri Shimbun that cites an anonymous senior US Defense Department source as saying that North Korea has deployed at least one Nodong missile. Pentagon spokesman Kenneth Bacon says, "Whether or not there are preparations under way for deployment or whether it's been in fact deployed isn't clear. We don't have firm evidence...at this stage." The Pentagon does confirm, however, that the development of the Nodong has been completed.
—Akinori Uchida, "U.S. Official Says N. Korea Has Deployed Rodong Missile," Daily Yomiuri, 26 February 1998, p. 1, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Kyodo News Service, "Pentagon Denies N. Korean Deployment of Rodong Missile," Japan Economic Newswire, 27 February 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
General John H. Tilelli, commander of US Forces Korea, tells the House Committee on National Security that North Korea is continuing its research and development of ballistic missiles. Tilelli also says that Pyongyang "is believed to proliferate missile technology to anyone with hard currency."
—John H. Tilelli, Jr., "Prepared Statement of General John H. Tilelli, Jr. Commander in Chief, United Nations Command/Combined Forces Command & Commander, United States Forces Korea before the House Committee on National Security," Federal News Service, 4 March 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
At a preparatory meeting held in Berlin to discuss the upcoming Korean Peninsula peace talks, the United States and North Korea agree to resume bilateral missile talks, but they fail to agree on a date.
—Kyodo News Service, 15 March 1998, in "North Korea, USA Reportedly to Resume Talks on Missiles," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 15 March 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Kyodo News Service, 15 March 1998, in "Missile Talks with USA reportedly to be Resumed," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 16 March 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >.
US government officials report that Pakistan's new 1,500km-range Ghauri intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) has been developed with technology supplied by North Korea. The Ghauri is believed to be an enhanced version of North Korea's Nodong ballistic missile.
—Tim Weiner, "U.S. Says North Korea Helped Develop New Pakistani Missile," New York Times, 11 April 1998, p. 3.
Pakistan conducts a flight-test of the Ghauri, with a claimed range of 1,500km. Although Pakistan claims it was designed and produced indigenously, it is a North Korean-produced Nodong launched from a mobile erector launcher (MEL). North Korean observers are present for the flight-test, the second for a Nodong.
—"Pakistan Test Fires New Long-Range Missile," Agence France Presse, 6 April 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Pakistan Test Fires Long-Range Missile," Deutsche Oresse-Agentur, 6 April 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Coomi Kapoor, "Knowhow 'Must Have Come from Abroad'," The Times, 7 April 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Tim Weiner, "U.S. Says North Korea Helped Develop New Pakistani Missile," New York Times, 11 April 1998, p. A3, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Chŏn Hyŏn, "Pakistan Kaebal Chunggŏri Missile 'Ghari'/Pukhan 'Nodong 2 Ho' Kanŭngsŏng/Ilchibodo," Segye Ilbo, 13 April 1998, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Lee T'ae Yŏng, "Puk Missile Isŭllamguk Hwaeksan P'amun," Chosun Ilbo, 15 April 1998, p. 6, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., "A History of Ballistic Missile Development in the DPRK," Occasional Paper No. 2, Center for Nonproliferation Studies, November 1999, p. 24.
Pakistan's Foreign Ministry denies reports that North Korea provided any assistance in the development of the Ghauri missile. The ministry says the missile is based on Pakistan's "own science and technology capability."
—"Pakistan Denies North Korea Supplied It Missile Technology," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 12 April 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Pak Denies Reports on Ghauri's 'Foreign Links'," The Hindu, 13 April 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >.
A US government official says that North Korea probably supplied components to Pakistan to help develop its new Ghauri missile. The official says, "We know Pakistan has tried to pursue this type of technology from a number of buyers and sellers, including North Korea."
—Kyodo News Service, "N. Korea Likely Gave Missile Parts to Pakistan: U.S.," Japan Economic Newswire, 15 April 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
Abdul Qadeer Khan, a leading Pakistani scientist and head of Pakistan's defense-related research institutes, says that the Ghauri was developed indigenously, and that Pakistan received no assistance from China or North Korea.
—"Ace Scientist Promises New Pakistan Missile after 'Ghuari': Report," Agence France Presse, 16 April 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
The United States imposes sanctions on North Korea's Ch'anggwang Shinyong Company and Pakistan's Khan Research Laboratories for collaborating in the development of the Ghauri ballistic missile. According to the US State Department, Ch'anggwang Shinyong sold missile parts to Khan Research Laboratories. The sanctions are for two years.
—Kyodo News Service, "U.S. Slaps Sanctions on Pakistani, N. Korean Entities," Japan Economic Newswire, 5 May 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "US Imposes Sanctions on Pakistan, N. Korea over Missile," Asia Pulse, 6 May 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Mi, Missile Such'ul Pukhan Kiŏp Chejae," Segye Ilbo, 7 May 1998, p. 10, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Hong Ŭn T'aek, "Mugisuch'ult'ongjebŏp Wiban/Mi, Puk Ch'anggwangmuyŏk Chejae," Donga Ilbo, 7 May 1998, p. 10, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Chidanand Rajghatta, "US Curbs on Pak Lab over Ghauri," Indian Express, 6 May 1998, <http://www.expressindia.com/>; Kevin Sullivan, "N. Korea Admits Selling Missiles: Move Seen as Test of U.S. Embargo," Washington Post, 17 June 1998, p. A1.
A senior Israeli intelligence officer tells the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee in the Israeli Knesset that Iran's development of the Shehab-3 engine is nearing completion. The official says the engine development has been the most difficult part of the Shehab-3 program, which is based on North Korea's Nodong-1. Israeli sources say that Russia is providing Iran with technology to develop the missile, and that Russia took over the program from North Korea in 1994 following "failures in the program's development."
—"Iranian Middle-Range Ballistic Missile Near Completion: Israeli Officer," Xinhua News Agency, 21 April 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >.
Kim Shin Ae, wife of North Korean diplomat and arms dealer Kang T'ae Yun, is murdered in her home in Islamabad. A senior Pakistani police source believes Kim was murdered by other North Koreans working at the Khan Research Laboratories. Pakistani police reports say she had been providing information about North Korean weapons sales to Western diplomats. Her husband works out of their home for Ch'anggwang Shinyong Company. [Note: Ch'angwang Shinyong has been the target of US economic sanctions for the sales of missiles and missile-related technology.]
—Dexter Filkins, "N. Korea Aid to Pakistan Raises Nuclear Fears," Los Angeles Times, 23 August 1999, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Julian West, "Pakistan Murder Exposes Nuclear Link [sic] The Killing of a Diplomat's Wife Has Revealed the Sinister Connection Between the North Koreans and the Pakistanis," Sunday Telegraph (London), 1 November 1998, p. 32, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Park Chin Yong, "'Puk Pakistan Haek Connection' Sŏbang'e Nŏmgin Hyŏm'ŭi," Hankook Ilbo, 6 November 1998, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/ >.
The Pentagon believes that North Korea's Nodong missile has been "operationalized." Officials cannot give the exact number of deployed Nodongs, but the Nodong is said to be capable of carrying chemical warheads. An official claims that North Korea does not have the capability to arm the missiles with biological weapons.
—Bill Gertz, "Pentagon: N. Korea's Missiles Operational; U.S. Forces in Japan Now within Range," Washington Times, 10 June 1998, p. 9.
According to US intelligence officials, Pakistan receives several shipments of warhead canisters and missile production components from North Korea. The warhead canisters are believed to be for Pakistan's Ghauri medium-range missile, a copy of the North Korean Nodong.
––Bill Gertz, "Pakistan Gets Help with Missile: North Korea Delivered Warhead Canisters for Ghauri Model," Washington Times, 14 September 1999, p. 1A, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
The Korean Central News Agency says that North Korea will continue developing, testing, and deploying ballistic missiles. The commentary also says, "Our missile export is aimed at obtaining foreign money we need at present."
—"Nobody Can Slander DPRK's Missile Policy = KCNA Commentary =," Korean Central News Agency, 16 June 1998, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; "Kŭ Nugudo Uri Missile Chŏngch'aeg'ŭl Hŭngjŏnghal Kwŏlli'ga Ŏpta/Chosŏnjungangt'ongshin Ronp'yŏng," Korean Central News Agency, 16 June 1998, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/ >; Kevin Sullivan, "N. Korea Admits Selling Missiles: Move Seen as Test of U.S. Embargo," Washington Post, 17 June 1998, p. A1; Chiharu Mori, "N. Korea Admits Exporting Missiles," Daily Yomiuri, 17 June 1998, p. 1, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Kyodo News Service, "N. Korea Demands Compensation for Missile Export Halt," Japan Economic Newswire, 16 June 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Andrei Varlamov, "Pyongyang Wants Good Price for Giving up Missile Trade," ITAR-TASS, 19 June 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
Japan releases its Defense White Paper, which says that North Korea has deployed Scud-B and Scud-C missiles, and that Pyongyang has biological and chemical warheads. The report also says that North Korea has completed development of the Nodong-1, which has a range of 1,000km.
—Reuters, "Japan Warns on N. Korean Nuclear Missile Threat," The Australian, 24 June 1998, p. 8, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Japan Warns of N. Korea Arms Threat," The Advertiser, 24 June 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Japan Warns of N. Korea Arms Threat," Australian Business Intelligence, 24 June 1998, p. 36, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
A commission headed by former Defence Secretary Donald Rumsfeld submits a report to Congress that states the ballistic missile threat from North Korea has been underestimated by previous intelligence reports. The report cites evidence suggesting that North Korea is hard at work on the Taepodong-2 ballistic missile and could deploy the missile within five years. According to the report, "it is unlikely the US would know of such a decision much before the missile was launched." The Taepodong-2 would be able to strike US territory in Alaska and Hawaii, but lightweight variations of the missile reportedly would be capable of striking a significant portion of the western continental United States. Senior intelligence officials responded to the report by claiming that the commission had used the same information available to government analysts but had assumed the worst-case scenario for each country's missile program.
––Commission to Assess the Ballistic Missile Threat to the United States, Report to the 105th Congress Session 2, 15 July 1998; Eric Schmitt, "Panel Says U.S. Faces Risk of a Surprise Missile Attack," New York Times, 16 July 1998, p. A24, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Kyodo News Service, "Congress Warns of Missile Threat to U.S., Others," Japan Economic Newswire, 16 July 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "U.S. Underestimates Missile Attack Threat," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 16 July 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
Iran conducts the first flight-test of the Shehab-3, which is actually the third flight-test of the Nodong. The missile is believed to be an Iranian assembled Nodong that flew for about 100 seconds before exploding. North Korean observers are believed to be present for the test. The Shehab-3 is believed to contain some Russian technology in its design. [Note: It is unclear clear whether the missile explosion was a catastrophic failure or a deliberate detonation.]
—Tim Weiner, "Iran Said to test Missile Able to Hit Israel and Saudis," New York Times, 23 July 1998, p. A1, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Kyodo News Service, "Ian Tests Rodong-Type Missile, U.S. Says," Japan Economic Newswire, 24 July 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Bill Gertz, "Longer Range on Iranian Missile: Shehab-4 Could Hit Central Europe," Washington Times, 29 July 1998, p. A12.
Manouchehr Mottaki, Iran's ambassador to Japan, admits that Iran has received technical support from North Korea for its missile development program. The ambassador reportedly tells this to Japan's Foreign Ministry when he is summoned to receive a protest over Iran's ballistic missile flight test on 22 July 1998.
—"Iran Admits Missile technology Support from N. Korea," Jiji Press Ticker Service, 4 August 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
A senior Israeli intelligence official tells the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee that Iran's missile program could be halted or delayed by several years if Russian companies are pressured to stop providing technical assistance. Otherwise, the official says, Iran will complete a Shehab-3 prototype by next year. [Note: This report contradicts claims that the Shehab-3 is an indigenously produced missile, or that it is a Nodong clone produced solely with North Korean assistance.]
—Arieh O'Sullivan and Liat Collins, "Iran Expected to Complete Shihab-3 Prototype Next Year," Jerusalem Post, 29 July 1998, p. 2, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Voice of Israel, 28 July 1998, in "Israeli Intelligence Head, Defense Source Comment on Iranian Missile Test," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 29 July 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
Iranian television carries a recorded interview with Iranian Defense Minister Admiral Ali Shamkhani. He states that "the domestic production of the Shehab-3 is less dependent on foreign resources than the production of Iran's Paykan cars. The technology is truly domestic. We are able to produce them on the basis of our domestic capacities."
—IRIB Television (Tehran), "The World of Politics," 30 July 1998, in FBIS Document ID: FTS19980805000854, 5 August 1998.
North Korea begins preparations for attempted launch of the Kwangmyŏnsŏng-1 satellite on 31 August 1998.
—Lee Yŏng Chong, "'Puk Wisong Su'myŏng 2 Nyŏn Ro'kesŭn 3 Dankye'—Puk Sŏnjŏnhwabo Ch'ŏt Konggae," Joongang Ilbo, 13 February 1999, <http://www.joins.com/>; Lee Yŏng Chong, Joongang Ilbo, 12 February 1999, in "DPRK Publishes Magazine on Details of Satellite Launch," FBIS Document ID FTS19990216000347; Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., "A History of Ballistic Missile Development in the DPRK," Occasional Paper No. 2, Center for Nonproliferation Studies, November 1999, p. 29.
According to South Korean Defense Minister Ch'ŏn Yong T'aek, the United States tells the South Korean government that North Korea is preparing to test a ballistic missile.
—Hwang Sŏng Ki, "Ch'ŏn Kukpang Taepodong Missile Kwallyŏn Ponji Hoe'gyŏn," Taehan Maeil, 2 September 1998, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
US intelligence detects final preparations for Taepodong-1 (Paektusan-1) space launch vehicle (SLV) launch on 31 August.
—Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., "A History of Ballistic Missile Development in the DPRK," Occasional Paper No. 2, Center for Nonproliferation Studies, November 1999, p. 29.
A South Korean Unification Ministry official says that North Korea is "having difficulties with its missile exports because of the lack of investment." The official says North Korea has asked for $500 million from the United States because "Pyongyang has realized there is no way to make money from weapons exports."
—"NK's Defense Industry Suffers from Lack of Exports," Korea Times, 30 August 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
North Korea attempts to place a small satellite into earth orbit with the first flight test of its three-stage Paektusan-1 (Taepodong-1) space launch vehicle (SLV). The missile is fired from the Musudan-ri Missile Test Facility on the east coast, and flies east across the Sea of Japan. The first stage separates 300km east of the launch site. The second stage continues over the main Japanese island of Honshu, and impacts in the Pacific Ocean 330km east of the Japanese port city of Hachinohe, after flying approximately 1,380km. US intelligence agencies track debris from North Korea's failed satellite launch, nearly 6,400km into the Pacific Ocean. According to a US official, the satellite broke into several pieces just seconds before reaching orbit, indicating that a "warhead could potentially have gone that far." US Pentagon spokesman Kenneth Bacon says the solid-fueled, three-stage missile is estimated to have a range of about 3,800 km to 6,000km.
—Joseph Bermudez, "North Koreans Test Two-Stage IRBM over Japan," Jane's Defence Weekly, 9 September 1998; Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., "A History of Ballistic Missile Development in the DPRK," Occasional Paper No. 2, Center for Nonproliferation Studies, November 1999, pp. 29-31; Don Kirk, "North Korea Test-Fires a Missile off Japan's North," International Herald Tribune, 1 September 1998, p. 1, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Bill Gertz, "N. Korean Missile Seen Posing Risk to U.S.; Rocket Might Reach Alaska, Hawaii," Washington Times, 16 September 1998, p. A1; Kyodo News Service, "N. Korea Fires Ballistic Missile into Pacific over Japan," Japan Economic Newswire, 31 August 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Martin Fackler, "North Korea Fires Missile across Northern Japan into Pacific," Associated Press, 31 August 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Sandra Sugawara, "N. Korea Fires Ballistic Missile toward Japan, Tokyo Reports; Pentagon Confirms Firing, Calling It 'Serious Development'," Washington Post, 31 August 1998, p. A17, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Yu Yong Wŏn, "Puk T'ando Missile 'Taepodong 1 Ho'/Aekch'eyŏllyo Sayong," Chosun Ilbo, 2 September 1998, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; O Yŏng Hwan, "'Puk Wisŏng' Sashil'inya...Sagi'nya/Uri Chŏngbu'nŭn Ŏddŏh'ke Pona," Joongang Ilbo, 5 September 1998, p. 3, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Kim Yŏng Ch'ŏl, "Puk In'gongwisŏng Palsa Sashil'ilkka," Hankyoreh Shinmun, 5 September 1998, p. 3, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
The National Security Agency allegedly discovers cooperation between North Korea and China in developing satellites. The cooperation is said to involve the exchange of scientists and technology, including scientists from the Chinese Academy of Launch Technology. US intelligence had previously noticed 200 North Korean missile specialists traveling to China for training in 1995.
—Bill Gertz, "China Assists North Korea in Space Launches," Washington Times, 23 February 1999, p. A1.
The Joongang Ilbo reports that the Taepodong-1 (Paektusan-1) missile has a Nodong missile as the first stage and a Scud missile as the second stage. The range is estimated to be 1,700-2,200km.
—Ch'oe Pyŏng Kŏn, "Pukhan 'Taepodong 1 Ho' Missile," Joongang Ilbo, 1 September 1998, <http://www.joins.com/>.
Former CIA Director James Woolsey says that North Korea could possibly deploy the Taepodong-1 within a year. Woosley says it is too early to determine, but deployment will depend upon the results of the flight test. He adds that the North Koreans might have lower standards for deployment.
—"Ex-CIA Chief Woolsey Sees Early Deployment of N. Korea Missile," Jiji Press Ticker Service, 2 September 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "'Puk Taepodong 1 Ho 1 Nyŏnnae Shilchŏnbaech'i'/Woolsey Chŏn CIA Kukchang Palkhyŏ," Kyunghyang Shinmun, 3 September 1998, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
According to the Yonhap News Agency, North Korea begins to focus on the acquisition of special metals after the Paektusan-1 launch in order to reduce the weight of the missile's airframe.
—Kim Kwi Kŭn, "Puk Missile Kaebalmit Such'ulhyŏnhwang," Yonhap News Agency, 6 February 2002, <http://www.yonhapnews.co.kr/>.
A high-level South Korean government official says that the Taepodong-1 test-launch appears to have been successful. The official says that North Korea will be able to deploy the missile by 2000 at the earliest, and that it will be offered for sale to countries such as Iran, Iraq, and Pakistan for about $6 million per missile.
—Ch'ae Byŏng Gŏn, "Shihŏmbalsa Taepodong 1 Ho Missile/Puk, 2 Nyŏnnae Shilchŏnbaech'i'," Joongang Ilbo, 3 September 1998, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Kim Dong Wŏn, "'Taepodong 1 Ho Missile Puk, 2 Chŏnnyŏn Shilchŏn Baech'i'/Chŏngbu Tanggukcha Chŏnmang," Segye Ilbo, 3 September 1998, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Kim In Ch'ŏl, "'Taepodong 1 Ho Missile 2000 Nyŏnkke Shilchŏn Baech'i'/Chŏngbudangguk Chŏnmang," Taehan Maeil, 3 September 1998, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
South Korean Defense Minister Ch'ŏn Yong T'aek tells the National Assembly that it would now be difficult for North Korea to arm a Taepodong-1 missile with a nuclear warhead, but it would be possible if some technical problems are solved. Ch'ŏn also says that North Korea's Taepodong-1 is a serious threat to all of Northeast Asia.
—Kim Yŏn Kwang, "'Puk Taepodong Missile Haekt'andu T'apchaehal Sudo'/Ch'ŏn Yong T'aek Kukpang Palghyŏ," Chosun Ilbo, 4 September 1998, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Kim Byŏng Ch'an and Kwŏn Hyŏk Pŏm, "Missile Such'ulp'ogi Taega/Puk, Mi'e 5 Ŏkpul Yogu/Kang In Dŏk T'ong'il Kukhoebogo," Hankook Ilbo, 4 September 1998, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
South Korea's Unification Minister Kang In Dŏk tells the National Assembly that North Korea told a visiting US House member on 11 August 1998 that Pyongyang wants at least $500 million in compensation to cease its missile exports. In a report Kang submits to the National Assembly, North Korea is said to be capable of producing about 100 Scud missiles a year and is continuing tests for the Taepodong-2 engine. The report also says that between 1987 and 1992, North Korea exported approximately 250 Scud missiles to countries such as Iran, Syria, and the United Arab Emirates for $580 million. [Note: Some press reports say North Korea is demanding $500 million to stop its exports, while others say the figure is $1 billion.]
—"N. Korea Demands Cash to Suspend Missile Exports: S. Korea," Agence France Presse, 4 September 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "North Korea Demands Money in return for Missile Test Stop," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 4 September 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Shin Yong-bae, "North Demands Money for Ending Missile Projects," Korea Herald, 4 September 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Mun Ch'ŏl, "Puk Missile P'ogi taiga Yogu/Kang In Dŏk Changgwan Palghyŏ," Donga Ilbo, 4 September 1998, p. 6, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Kim Byŏng Ch'an and Kwŏn Hyŏk Pŏm, "Missile Such'ulp'ogi Taega/Puk, Mi'e 5 Ŏkpul Yogu/Kang In Dŏk T'ong'il Kukhoebogo," Hankook Ilbo, 4 September 1998, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Yŏ Hyŏn Ho, "Missile Such'ul P'ogi Taega/Puk, Mi'e 10 Ŏk Dollar Yogu," Hankyoreh Shinmun, 4 September 1998, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Park Tae Ch'ul, "Puk, Missile P'ogidaega Mi'e 10 Ŏk Dollar Yogu," Taehan Maeil, 4 September 1998, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
he Korean Central News Agency says that North Korea launched a satellite into orbit via a multi-stage rocket on 31 August 1998. The purpose of the launch was to (1) confirm the calculation basis for future satellite launches, and (2) encourage the Korean people in the efforts to build a powerful socialist state under the wise leadership of General Secretary Kim Jong Il.
—"Successful Launch of First Satellite in DPRK," Korean Central News Agency, 4 September 1998, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; "Uri Nara'esŏ Ch'ŏt In'gongjiguwisŏng Sŏggwajŏg'ŭro Palsa/Chosŏnjungangt'ongshin," Korean Central News Agency, 4 September 1998, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; Nicholas D. Kristof, "North Koreans Declare They Launched a Satellite, Not a Missile," New York Times, 5 September 1998, p. A5, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
North Korea's Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) revises the constitution, making the National Defense Commission (NDC) the highest authority over state affairs, and making Kim Il Sung "eternal president" of North Korea. The SPA also re-elects Kim Jong Il as chairman of the NDC.
—"DPRK Socialist Constitution," Korean Central News Agency, 5 September 1998, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; Chosŏnminjujuŭiinmin'gonghwaguk Sahoejuŭihŏnbŏp," Korean Central News Agency, 5 September 1998, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; Central Broadcasting Station, 5 September 1998, in "'Text' of North Korea's Socialist Constitution," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 8 September 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Nicholas D. Kristof, "Death Doesn't End Rule of Kim Il Sung, 'Eternal President'," New York Times, 7 September 1998, p. A5, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Sang-Hun Choe, "North Korea Makes Kim Jong Il Head of State," Associated Press, 5 September 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "North Korean Lawmakers Re-Appoint Kim Head of Military," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 5 September 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Kim Jong Il Elected Head of State," Mainichi Daily News, 6 September 1998, p. 1, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
Russian "government sources" say that 20 Russian "nuclear scientists and missile experts" provided limited theoretical support for the North Korean nuclear and missile programs. The Russian Foreign Ministry reportedly has confirmed that North Korea has invited Russian scientists, but that all of them have now returned to Russia. The sources believe North Korea developed the Nodong-1 and Taepodong-1 missiles independently because of limited Russian support.
—"Russian helped N. Korea's Missile Development," Jiji Press Ticker Service, 7 September 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
A senior South Korean government official says that the South Korean government has concluded that the North Korean Taepodong-1 flight-test on 31 August was an unsuccessful attempt to place a satellite into orbit.
—Chon Shi-yong, "Government Concludes North Korean Missile Was Failed Satellite Attempt," Korea Herald, 14 September 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
The United States confirms that North Korea tried and failed to place a satellite in orbit during its rocket launch on 31 August 1998. US State Department Spokesman James Rubin says that the military implications of the test are the same regardless of whether North Korea launched a missile or a satellite. North Korea has demonstrated the capability for delivering weapon payloads against surface targets at increasing ranges. According to Rubin, the United States regards the test as "a threat to us and this region."
—Lim Yun-Suk, "N. Korea Boasts of Satellite Launch after US Admits It Was Wrong," Agence France Presse, 15 September 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
North Korea and the United States agree to resume missile talks from 1 October 1998.
—"USA and N. Korea Set to Resume Missile Talks," Jane's Defence Weekly, 16 September 1998, p. 1.
Robert Walpole, the CIA's national intelligence officer for strategic and nuclear programs, says that the first and second stages performed successfully during the Taepodong-1 test-flight on 31 August 1998. However, the third stage failed to place a small satellite into orbit. Walpole says the Taepodong-1 has a range of 1,500-2,000km, and that North Korea might test-launch the Taepodong-2 by the end of the year.
—"CIA Official Warns against Threat of N. Korean Missiles," Jiji Press Ticker Service, 28 September 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
Robert Smith, a Republican senator from New Hampshire, says that North Korea may be capable of striking Alaska with a missile, which is a greater capability than previously thought. The senator makes the statement after a classified briefing with CIA Director George Tenet.
—Kyodo News Service, "N. Korea Missiles May Be Capable of Reaching Alaska," Japan Economic Newswire, 24 September 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
North Korea's Nodong Sinmun denounces the US allegation that North Korea has built underground nuclear facilities and threatens to attack the United States as an "unpardonable encroachment upon the sovereignty and dignity of North Korea." The commentary also states that "whether the launch of our artificial satellite is used for military purposes or not, entirely depends on the attitude of the United States and other hostile forces."
—"U.S. Hit for Frantic Anti-DPRK Campaign," Korean Central News Agency, 25 September 1998, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>; Mi'gug'ŭi Pan'gonghwa'gug'apsalch'aektong'ŭl Kyut'an/Rodongsihinmun Ronp'yŏng," Korean Central News Agency, 25 September 1998, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>; "Do Not Make Unnecessary Rackets," Nodong Simun, 25 September 1998, in "North Korea Says Use of Satellite Launch Depends on USA and 'Other Hostile Forces'," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 26 September 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
North Korea and the United States hold a third round of bilateral missile talks in New York. The United States offers North Korea improved relations if it restrains its missile tests and exports. North Korea rejects US demands, and claims that "missiles are tools for self-defense, which is the natural independent right of a sovereign state."
—"U.S. Demand To End Testing, Exporting of Missiles Rejected," Chicago Tribune, 4 October 1998; Kim Tu-hwan, "Reemerging DPRK Missile Issue," Yonhap News Agency, 22 February 2001, in "DPRK Missile Development Reemerges as Pending Issue," FBIS Document ID KPP200010222000105; "U.S. Says Progress in Missile Talks 'Up to Pyongyang'," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 2 October 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
US State Department Spokesman James Rubin says that North Korea could face "very negative consequences" if it conducts further tests or exports long-range missiles. Rubin expresses concern over North Korea's export of Scud missiles to Iran, Syria, and Pakistan.
—"U.S. Says Progress in Missile Talks 'up to Pyongyang'," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 2 October 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >.
According to the Washington Times, "a report" claims China provides specialty steel for missiles to North Korea. The deal reportedly generates a note of diplomatic protest from the US State Department in December 1999.
—Bill Gertz, "China Breaks Vow, Sends N. Korea Missile Materials," Washington Times, 6 January 2000, p. 1.
US intelligence detects North Korean preparations to conduct a missile flight-test.
—"2nd Missile Launch Likely, U.S. Govt Warns Tokyo," Daily Yomiuri, 2 December 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Greg Seigle, "Another N. Korean Missile Launch Near, Says USA," Jane's Defence Weekly, 9 December 1998, p. 4.
South Korean Defense Minister Ch'ŏn Yong T'aek says that North Korea will probably deploy nine Nodong missiles by the end of the year. Ch'ŏn says the Nodong has a range of 1,000km, and that North Korea has 2,500 tons of chemical weapons. According to Ch'ŏn, the three-stage Taepodong-1 can deliver a small payload to a range of 6,000km.
—"N. Korea Likely to Bring 9 Rodong Missile into Operation," Asia Pulse, 9 November 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Song Sang Kŭn, "'Puk, Nodong 1 Ho 9 Ki Yŏnnae Shilchŏnbaech'i'/Chŏn Kukpang Chaehyanggun'inhoe Anbogang'yŏn," Donga Ilbo, 7 November 1998, p. 5, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Ch'ae Byŏng Gŏn, "'Nodong 1 Ho Missile 9 Ki Yŏnmalkkaji Shilchŏnbaech'i'/Chŏn Yong T'aek Kukpangjanggwan," Joongang Ilbo, 7 November 1998, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
The Washington Post quotes US intelligence and diplomatic sources as saying that North Korea is building two new launch facilities, at Yong'ŏ-dong and Chiha-ri, for its medium-range Taepodong-1 [Paektusan-1] missile. The sources further allege that North Korea has already completed the bunkers to store propellants at the Yong'o-dong site and that the facility could become operational as early as 1999. A similar facility is also being built at Chiha-ri, which is the technical support base for North Korea's Scud missile brigade. [Note: There is no "Yong'ŏ-dong" in North Korea. The actual site is Yŏngjŏ-ri, Kimhyŏngjik-kun, Yanggang Province.]
—Thomas W. Lippman and Dana Priest, "N. Korea Expanding Missile Programs," Washington Post, 20 November 1998, <http://www.washingtonpost.com/>; Kang Hyo Sang, "Taepodong 1 Ho Palsa Shilsŏl/Puk, Ch'oeso Tugos'e Kŏnsŏlchung," Chosun Ilbo, 21 November 1998, p. 3, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
US intelligence agencies believe that North Korea appears to have postponed a second test of its Taepodong-1 [Paektusan-1] missile. US intelligence analysts speculate that North Korea probably has a limited number of Taepodong-1 missiles or is waiting for better weather and political conditions.
—Bill Gertz, "North Korea Postpones Testing of New Long-Range Missile," Washington Times, 31 December 1998, p. A4; Kyodo News Service, "N. Korea May have Postponed 2nd Missile Launch: Daily," Japan Economic Newswire, 2 January 1999, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
US intelligence officials tell Tokyo that North Korea may launch another Taepodong-1 (Paektusan-1) missile in December 1998. In November, US spy satellites detected movement of Taepodong-1 missile components from storage to a launch pad.
—"2nd Missile Launch Likely, U.S. Govt Warns Tokyo," Yomiuri Shimbun, 2 December 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Greg Seigle, "Another N. Korean Missile Launch Near, Says USA," Jane's Defence Weekly, 9 December 1998, p. 4.
NHK Television in Japan quotes Defense Agency sources as saying North Korea is building three underground missile launch facilities in the northern part of the country. The report says a fuel storage facility will be completed in one or two years at one of the sites.
—"N. Korea Building Three Underground Launch Facilities," Korea Times, 8 December 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "US Warns New Launching Sites under Construction in N. Korea: Report," Agence France Presse, 7 December 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
9 December 1998
North Korean Vice-Foreign Minister Kim Kye Kwan claims that the planned launch of a Taepodong-1 (Paektusan-1) rocket is not a missile test, but part of North Korea's satellite program. He does not mention when the launch is scheduled.
––"N. Korea Preparing Second 'Satellite' Launch: Report," Agence France Presse, 11 December 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
A European parliamentary delegation returning from North Korea reports that North Korea is prepared to launch a second satellite. Officials in the North Korean Foreign Ministry informed the delegation that North Korea has a second satellite.
—Kyodo News Service (Tokyo), 12 December 1998, in "European Mission: DPRK Set To Launch 2d Satellite," FBIS Document ID FTS19981212000011.
Russian Defense Ministry sources say that a medium-range ballistic missile is to be launched from a North Korean test site at Musudan-ri. The new rocket will have a range of about 3,500km. [Note: The test does not take place.]
—Vladislav Kuznetsov, "North Korea to Stage ballistic Missile Test," ITAR-TASS, 17 December 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Report: N. Korea to test Another Missile," AP Online, 17 December 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Kyodo News Service, "N. Korea to Test-Fire Missile: ITAR-TASS," Japan Economic Newswire, 17 December 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
Japan's Defense Agency presents a report to the Liberal Democratic Party that says North Korea is building "two new missile sites in addition to one already confirmed." The confirmed site is at Taepo-dong [Musudan-ri], and one site near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and another in the northern part of North Korea.
—Kyodo News Service, "N. Korea Building 2 New Missile Launch Sites: Report," Japan Economic Newswire, 19 December 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "N. Korea Building New Missile Launch Sites: Japan," Korea Times, 20 December 1998, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Yun Sang Sam, "Puk Haeg'ŭihokshijŏl Kyumyŏng Pujinhalddaen Mi Naenyŏnch'o Kanggyŏngnosŏn Ch'wihaltŭt," Donga Ilbo, 21 December 1998, p. 10, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
Sasae Kenichiro, director of the Japanese Foreign Ministry's North Korean Division, demands an end to North Korea's ballistic missile tests in an informal meeting with the deputy head of the North Korean UN mission in New York.
—"Japan Demands End to N. Korea Missile Tests," Korea Times, 21 January 1999, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, ; "Japan Had Unofficial Contact with N. Korea in Dec.," Jiji Press Ticker Service, 19 January 1999, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
According to Japan's Defense Agency, "it is highly likely that North Korea is building missile launch facilities at "Yong'ŏ-dong" near Mt. Paektu, and at Chiha-ri," which is in P'an'gyo-kun, Kangwŏn Province. The agency also says that North Korea is making rapid progress in the development of the Taepodong-1. [Note: There is no "Yong'ŏ-dong" in North Korea. The actual site is Yŏngjŏ-ri, Kimhyŏngjik-kun, Yanggang Province.]
—Yun Sang Sam, "Puk Yongŏdong Chihari'e Missile Kiji Kŏnsŏlchung," Donga Ilbo, 24 December 1998, p. 10, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Lee Jun, "Pukhan Missile Kiji Tu'got Kŏnsŏlchung'indŭt/Il Pangwich'ŏng, Yongodong Chihari Chimok," Chosun Ilbo, 24 December 1998, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
North Korea warns the United States that it is prepared to launch another medium-range missile. A US CIA source says that the United States has asked North Korea to reconsider future ballistic missile tests. The Korean Central News Agency carries a report from the Rodong Sinmun that says, "We are fully ready to launch an artificial satellite again when we think it necessary."
—David E. Singer, "North Korea Warns U.S. That It Could Launch Another Missile," New York Times, 26 December 1998, <http://www.nytimes.com/>; "U.S. Warned Not to Try to Test DPRK," Korean Central News Agency, 25 December 1998, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/ >; "In'gongwisŏng'ŭl Ddodashi palsahal mandan'ŭi Chunbidoeyŏitta/Rodongshinmun," Korean Central News Agency, 25 December 1998, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>.
North Korea is reportedly building a new Nodong missile base at "Yŏngjŏ-dong," Kimhyŏngjik-kun, Yanggang Province. [Note: The actual name is "Yŏngjo-ri."]
—Kim Min Sŏk, "Puk Missile Kiji Kyesok Chŭngsŏl," Joongang Ilbo, 6 March 2001, p. 8, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>. North Korea delivers 10 tons of powdered aluminum to Syria. The aluminum originally came from China, and is delivered to the Centre des Etudes et de Recherche Scientifique (CERS, Scientific Studies and Research Center), the institute in charge of Syria's missile and chemical weapons programs.
—Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., "A History of Ballistic Missile Development in the DPRK," Occasional Paper No. 2, Center for Nonproliferation Studies, November 1999, p. 19.
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