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.
North Korea begins to develop a new uranium mine in the area of Shinp’o (新浦市), South Hamgyŏng Province (咸鏡南道).
—Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., “Exposing North Korea’s Secret Nuclear Infrastructure—Part One,” Jane’s Intelligence Review, July 1999, p. 40.
The second nuclear waste storage facility at the Yŏngbyŏn Nuclear Complex becomes operational. The facility, designated as “Building 500” by the US Central Intelligence Agency, has two primary levels, the upper consisting of a large warehouse and the lower housing large waste storage cells.
—Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., “North Korea’s Nuclear Infrastructure,” Jane’s Intelligence Review, February 1994, p. 79.
North Korea constructs and begins to operate a uranium milling facility in Pyŏngsan-kun (平山郡), North Hwanghae Province (黃海北道). The milling facility is reportedly near the P’yŏngsan Uranium Mine. [Note: The milling facility is later reported to be an asset of the Namch’ŏn Chemical Complex ( 南川化學聯合企業所).]
—ROK National Intelligence Service, “Pukhanŭi Uranium Kwang Kaebal Shilt’ae,” 27 April 1999, <http://www.nis.go.kr/>; Yonhap News Agency, Chapter Eight “Kunsa,” in 2002 Pukhan Yŏn’gam (Seoul: Yonhap News Agency, 2002).
North Korea obtains US military manuals related to defense against nuclear, chemical, and biological warfare. The manuals are reportedly entitled: NBC Handbook, NBC Ground Influence, and NBC Flame Influence. The manuals were published in 1986, 1988, and 1989 respectively. The manuals are stored at a Korean Workers Party archives storage site near the Koryo Hotel in Pyongyang. Defector Lee Chung Kuk begins to work on translating the manuals around September 1992. [Note: The Koryo Hotel is located on Changgwang Street (蒼光거리) , Tonghŭng-dong (東興洞) , Chung-kuyŏk (中區域), Pyongyang.]
—U Chong Chang, Chugan Chosun, 30 June 1994, pp. 26-28, in “Weekly Assesses DPRK Nuclear War Preparations,” FBIS-EAS-94-126, 30 June 1994, p. 38
Dr. Abdul Qadir Khan, head Pakistan’s Khan Research Laboratory in Kahuta, visits North Korea at least 12 times. [Note: In October 2002, reports reveal that North Korea and Pakistan cooperate in a barter deal trading Nodong missiles for uranium-enrichment materials and technologies.]
—“Pak Despatched (sic) N-Material to N Korea This July,” Outlook India.com, 6 December 2002, <http://www.outlookindia.com>.
The Soviet Union halts exports of nuclear equipment and fuel to North Korea after warning it to accept full-scope IAEA safeguards.
—Naoki Usui, “Pyongyang Refuses NPT Safeguards, Japanese Normalization Deadlocked,” Nucleonics Week, Vol. 32, No. 22, 30 May 1991, pp. 17-18.
The “uranium refinement facility” in P’yŏngsan-kun, North Hwanghae Province becomes operational. The facility can reportedly convert uranium ore into UO2. [Note: According to Bermudez, some sources claim the facility becomes operational in 1986, while others claim 1990.]
—Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., North Korea’s Nuclear Infrastructure,” Jane’s Intelligence Review, February 1994, p. 75.
“An official” from the German firm Leybold is reportedly in North Korea. [Note: North Korea acquired a Leybold annealing furnace in 1987.]
—Mark Hibbs, “Agencies Trace Some Iraqi URENCO Know-How to Pakistan Re-Export,” Nucleonics Week, Vol. 32, No. 48, 28 November 1991, p. 1, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.
Kim Il Sung reportedly says, “Since we do not know when the United States may ignite a nuclear war, we should make thorough preparations against this.”
—U Chong Chang, Chugan Chosun, 30 June 1994, pp. 26-28, in “Weekly Assesses DPRK Nuclear War Preparations,” FBIS-EAS-94-126, 30 June 1994, p. 38.
Kim Jong Il reportedly says, “We, too, should prepare against emergency nuclear warfare by introducing the advanced countries’ nuclear technologies at an early date.”
—U Chong Chang, Chugan Chosun, 30 June 1994, pp. 26-28, in “Weekly Assesses DPRK Nuclear War Preparations,” FBIS-EAS-94-126, 30 June 1994, p. 38.
Representatives from the United States and North Korea meet in Beijing to discuss security issues. At the meeting, the US representatives urge North Korea to sign an agreement with the IAEA in order to remove any suspicions about a clandestine nuclear program. North Korea contends that such an agreement is a matter only to be discussed with the IAEA. The North Korean representatives also invite the United States to join in trilateral talks with the two Koreas to discuss a nuclear weapons free zone on the Korean peninsula. According to the North Korean delegation, the United States was not prepared to discuss such an issue. The North Koreans ask the United States to cancel the Team Spirit military exercise and to withdraw US forces from South Korea.
—“US, N. Korean Reps Meet in Beijing,” Japan Economic Newswire, 6 January 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “DPRK on Its Contact with US,” Xinhua News Agency, 9 January 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “Miguk – Pukhan Beijingsŏ 6 Ch’a Chŏpch’ok,” Hankyoreh Shinmun, 7 January 1990, p. 4, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.jp/>; “Mi- Pukhan Saehae Ch’ŏt Woegyojŏpch’ok/Ŏje Pukkyŏngsŏ/Kunsahullyŏn-Haek Munje Tŭng Kŏron,” Kukmin Ilbo, 6 January 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “Hanbando Pihaekhwa 3 Chahoedam Cheŭi/Pukhan – Mi Pukkyŏngjŏpch’oksŏ,” Kyunghyang Shinmun, 9 January 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
According to sources in the South Korean Ministry of Defense, the South Korean government will propose a four-step disarmament program with North Korea that would include the suspension of any North Korean nuclear weapon production, as well as North Koreas joining and adhering to nuclear safety agreements.
—Nambuk Kunchuk 4 Tangyean Maryŏn/Kukpangbu/90 Nyŏndae Chungban Chuhanmigun Ch’ŏlsu Taebi,” Hankyoreh Shinmun, 12 January 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
Moscow Radio reports that North Korea recently began construction of a nuclear power plant project in the northern part of the country with Soviet assistance. The project is to include four nuclear reactors capable of producing a total of 1,760MW(e) (440MW(e) per reactor). [Note: The site is at Shinpo, South Hamgyŏng Province, but only preliminary work is conducted before the project is abandoned. The site is later selected for the two light water reactors provided under the Agreed Framework.]
—“So Bangsong ‘Pukhan Wŏnjŏn Uriga Chiwŏn’gŏnsŏl’ Podo/Chigŭm Pukhan’esŏn,” Hankook Ilbo, 12 February 1990, p. 4, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “N. Korean Reportedly Building Nuclear Plant,” Japan Economic Newswire, 5 February 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Tim Johnson, “Japan Calls on N. Korea to Allow Nuke Inspections,” Japan Economic Newswire, 9 February 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “N. Korea Reportedly Building Nuclear Plant,” Japan Economic Newswire, 5 February 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., North Koreas Nuclear Programme, Janes Intelligence Review, September 1991, p. 409.
The IAEA Board of Governors advises North Korea to sign the Full-Scale Safety Measure Agreement by June 1990. If signed, the agreement will be able to confirm whether North Korea has the capability to develop nuclear weapons.
—“North Korea’s Nuclear Development Is Dangerous,” Seoul Shinmun (Seoul), 7 March 1990, p. 2, in “North Asked to Use Nuclear Energy Peacefully,” in FBIS-EAS-90-049, 13 March 1990, p. 24; Wihŏmsŭrŏn Pukhan’ŭi Haek Kaebal (Sasŏl),” Taehan Maeil, 7 March 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.
North Korea selects Shinp’o, South Hamgyŏng Province as the site for light water reactors to be provided by the USSR under a deal that was signed in December 1985 as a quid pro quo for Pyongyangs signing of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). [Note: The USSR later abandons the deal, but the site later becomes the location for two light water reactors under the Agreed Framework.]
Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., North Korea’s Nuclear Infrastructure,” Jane’s Intelligence Review, February 1994, p. 77; Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., “Exposing North Korea’s Secret Nuclear Infrastructure—Part One,” Jane’s Intelligence Review, July 1999, p. 40.
Professor To Sang Rok, the so-called “father of the North Korean nuclear program,” dies at the age of 87. To is buried in a national patriots’ cemetery in Pyongyang.
—Lee Chae Sŭng, Pukhan’ŭl Umjig’i’nŭn Technocrat (Seoul: Ilbit, 1998), p. 108.
While meeting with US Secretary of State James Baker, Soviet Foreign Minister Eduard A. Shevardnadze announces that North Korea is very close to concluding a nuclear safeguards agreement with the IAEA. However, North Korea has not wavered from its position that that it will not sign the agreement until the United States removes nuclear weapons from South Korea. The United States rejects this demand due to North Korea’s larger conventional forces on the Peninsula. Baker expresses US concern over North Korea’s refusal to allow IAEA inspections.
—Andrew Mack, “The Nuclear Card,” Far Eastern Economic Review, 31 May 1990, p. 24; “‘Official Text of Soviet-American Statement’,” ITAR TASS, 10 February 1990, in “Statement on Talks between Shevardnadze and Baker,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 13 February 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “Shevardnadze Hanbando Munje Tappyŏn,” Hankyoreh Shinmun, 13 February 1990, p. 4, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “Mi So Woemu Hanabando Hyŏpŭi: Ilji Podo Pukhan Wŏnjŏn’e Uryŏpyŏmyŏng,” Donga Ilbo, 10 February 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
Tokai University Professor Toshifumi Sakata announces that he and fellow researchers have discovered proof of large nuclear facilities being constructed near Yŏngbyŏn. By comparing photos taken by a French satellite in June 1986 and September 1989 of the same area surrounding Yŏngbyŏn, Sakata and his associates discovered the construction of several large concrete buildings, believed to be a reactor, staff housing, and possibly a reprocessing plant.
—“N. Korea Said Expanding Nuclear Facility,” Japan Economic Newswire, 8 February 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “First Picture Shows North Korea N-Plant,” The Daily Yomiuri, 9 February 1990, p. 1, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “North Korean Nuclear Facilities May Include Fuel-Processing Plant,” Asahi News Service, 9 February 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Chae Ŭi Sŏk, "Pukhan Wŏnjŏnhaek’yŏllyo Chaech’ŏri Shisŏl/Pul Wisŏng Ch’wal’yŏng Hwag’in," Segye Ilbo, 10 February 1990, p. 6, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/ >; Cho Yang Uk, “Pukhan Haek Shisŏl Kŏnsŏl Hwag’in/Il Tonghaedae,” Kukmin Ilbo, 9 February 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Lee Tong Chu, “Il Pukhan Yŏngbyŏn Wŏnjŏn Wisŏngsajin Punsŏk/Pul Wisŏng SPOT Ch’wal’yŏng,” Kyunghyang Shinmun, 9 February 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
Japanese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Taizo Watanabe, in a meeting with foreign correspondents, urges North Korea to sign an agreement with the IAEA as soon as possible in order to verify the peaceful use of reported nuclear facilities. This statement comes after Tokai University scientists discover the construction of a large nuclear complex, believed to include a reprocessing plant, near Yŏngbyŏn. [Note: This is a reference to the Radiochemistry Laboratory.]
—Tim Johnson, “Japan Calls on N. Korea to Allow Nuke Inspections,” Japan Economic Newswire, 9 February 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
North Korean broadcast media report that the North Korean government “regrets” it will have to suspend all dialogue with South Korea because of the Team Spirit military exercise.
—“Pukhan Nambuktaehwa Chungdan Sŏn’ŏn/Pyongyang Pangsong T’onghae Palp’yo/Team Spirit Kiganjung,” Kyunghyang Shinmun, 9 February 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
The Yomiuri Shimbun reports that North Korea is calling for removal of nuclear weapons from South Korea as a condition for accepting IAEA inspections. The newspaper quotes an unidentified North Korean source as having said, North Korea has a right to self-develop nucleur for the peaceful purposes. Nuclear weapons in South Korea are different.”
—“Pukhan Haek Kamshi Surak/Han’gungnae Haek Ch’ŏlgŏwa Yŏn’gye,” Joongang Ilbo, 15 February 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “Pukhan, Haeksach’al Surakcho’gŏn Han’guk Haengmugi Ch’ŏlgŏ Yogu,” Hankook Ilbo, 16 February 1990, p. 4, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>
According to the newspaper Izvestia, Vladimir Kryuchkov, head of the KGB, issues a memo to the Soviet leadership that says North Korea “has completed the development of its first atomic explosive device.” According to the memo, the development was completed at the nuclear research center in Yŏngbyŏn.
—Yevgenia Albats, Izvestia, 24 June 1990, p. 4, in ?Pyongyang and the Bomb: When Did Moscow Hear?? Current Digest of the Post-Soviet Press, 20 July 1994, p. 16, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “Report Suggests N. Korea Has Nuke Weapon,” United Press International, 23 June 1994, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “Verbatim: And that Was in 1990,” Air Force Magazine, Vol. 77, No. 8, August 1994, <http://www.afa.org/magazine/magz.html>; Warren Strobel, “N. Korea Shops for Nuke Technology in Russia,” Washington Times, 5 July 1994, p. A1.
While in Japan, a spokesman for the USSR’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs says that North Korea is an independent state in which the Soviet Union cannot exercise its influence, and the USSR has no intention to do so.
—Soryŏn ‘Pukhan Naejong Kansŏp’anhae’ Woemubu Taebyŏn’in/Taenam Kunsajŏk Wihyŏp Ŏpsŏ,” Hankyoreh Shinmun, 24 February 1990, p. 4, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
In Tokyo, US Secretary of Defense Dick Cheney says that it would be helpful if the USSR encourages North Korea to comply with its nuclear nonproliferation agreements.
—“Mi ‘A-T’ae Kunsaryŏk Yakhwaŭido Ŏpta’/So, Pukhan’e Taehwahwaktae YudoHaldŭt,” Hankook Ilbo, 24 February 1990, p. 4, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “‘Taebukhan Mugi’gonggŭp So’nŭn Chehanhaeya’ Cheney, Ilsŏ Yŏnsŏl,” Taehan Maeil, 24 February 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
South Korean Defense Minister Lee Jŏng Hun tells the National Assembly’s National Defense Committee that North Korea is building nuclear facilities in Yŏngbyŏn-kun on a large scale and that North Korea could produce nuclear weapons in the mid-1990s. Minister Lee also says that North Korea is extending the range of its Scud missiles to over 500km.
—“Nambuk Kunch’ukhyŏpsang Ch’ujin/I Kukpang, 3 Tan’gyero/Sangho Shilloeguch’uk Hotline Sŏlch’ido,” Kyunghyang Shinmun, 24 February 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
At the IAEA Board of Governors, North Korea clarifies that it will not sign a safeguards agreement because of nuclear weapons in South Korea, and because of the Team Spirit joint military exercise in South Korea.
—“Pukhan, Haek Anjŏn Kŏmjŭng Kŏbu/Hyŏpchŏngjoindo Pandae,” Taehan Maeil, 25 February 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “Haek Anjŏn Hyŏnjigŏmjŭng Pukhansŏ Tashi Kŏbu/IAEA Isahoe,” Segye Ilbo, 25 February 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “Pukhan’ŭi Haek Anjŏn Kŏmjŭng Kukche’gigu Yogu Kŏbu/IAEA Isahoe’sŏ,” Kukmin Ilbo, 24 February 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
North Korea admits building nuclear power plants, but denies reports that it is developing nuclear weapons. The Korean Central News Agency says that North Korea is constructing nuclear power plants to meet the rapidly growing domestic demand for electricity, but that all research is conducted for peaceful purposes according to IAEA guidelines.
—Pukhan, Haekpaljŏnso Kŏnsŏl Shiin/Chung’angt’ongshin ‘Pyŏnghwajŏk Mokjŏkwihae Wŏnjaryŏkto Yŏn’gu,” Chosun Ilbo, 27 February 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “Pukhan Wŏnjŏn’gŏnsŏl Shiin: Chungang T’ongshin Haengmugi Kaebalŭn Puin,” Joongang Ilbo, 27 February 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
North Korea later reports that it reprocesses 90-100 grams of plutonium from damaged fuel rods that were removed from its 5MW(e) nuclear reactor in Yŏngbyŏn.
—Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., “Exposing North Korea’s Secret Nuclear Infrastructure—Part Two,” Jane’s Intelligence Review, August 1999, p. 43; Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., “North Korea’s Nuclear Infrastructure,” Jane’s Intelligence Review, February 1994, p. 78.
Soviet Foreign Ministry Spokesman Gennady Gerasimov says that when North Korea signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) on 26 December 1985, the Soviet Union agreed to provide North Korea with technical assistance to build four nuclear power reactors.
Choe Ŭi Sŏk, “So, Pukhan Wŏnjŏn’gŏnsŏl Chiwŏn/Kerashimo’p’ŭ Taebyŏn’in,” Segye Ilbo, 3 March 1990, p. 6, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “So, Pukhan Wŏnjŏn Kŏnsŏl Chiwŏn,” Kyunghyang Shinmun, 2 March 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
The Tokyo Shimbun quotes Japanese government sources as having said that North Korea will allow IAEA inspections if US troops are withdrawn from South Korea. The report says North Korea’s attitude takes into account the removal of US nuclear weapons deployed in South Korea.
—“Kukchegigu Haek Kaebal Sach’al/Pukhan, Migun Ch’ŏlsuwa Yŏn’gye,” Joongang Ilbo, 2 March 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
China’s Energy Minister says there is no evidence that North Korea is building facilities that will enable it to produce nuclear weapons.
—“Pukhan Haengmu’gi Kongjang Kŏnsŏl/Chungguk Energy Pujang Puin,” Joongang Ilbo, 15 March 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
A radio broadcast in Moscow reports that USSR geologists will participate in the construction of nuclear power plants in North Korea.
—“Pukhan Wŏnjŏn Kŏnsŏlsaŏp/So Chijilhakjadŭl Ch’amyŏ,” Hankook Ilbo, 18 March 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; [“News on Soviet-Korean Relations” program under the “Annals of Friendship” program], Moscow International Service in Korean, in “USSR To Help Site DPRK Atomic Power Plant,” FBIS-SOV-90-055, p. 14, 21, March 1990.
Media reports announce that South Korea and the USSR will accelerate moves to establish full diplomatic relations. The announcement follows a week-long trip to the USSR by Kim Young Sam, co-chairman of South Korea’s Democratic Liberal Party.
—Mary Dejevsky, “Moscow Hastens Seoul Ties,” The Times, 27 March 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
The US Department of Commerce announces that the West German company Degussa A.G. will be fined $800,000 for exporting to countries, including North Korea, nuclear sensitive materials without US approval. US officials believe that between 15 September 1986 and 15 October 1987, Degussa A.G. made several shipments of US-origin zirconium to North Korea, Czechoslovakia, and Italy. [Note: Zirconium is used in the manufacture of uranium fuel rods.]
—“German Company Fined Over Nuclear Material,” United Press International, 28 March 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “Sŏdŏkhoesa Pukhan’e Haegwŏllyo Such’ul/80 Manbul Pŏl’gŭmhyŏng,” Kyunghyang Shinmun, 29 March 1990, p. 5, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
The Japanese newspaper Nihonkeizai Shinbun reports that North Korea is now considering whether it should accept IAEA safeguards inspections of facilities in Yŏngbyŏn. The report cites European sources that claim Pyongyang is thinking about joining the international inspections regime later this year.
—“Pukhan Yŏngbyŏnwŏnjŏn Shisŏl/Kukjchesach’al Suyonggŏmt’o,” Donga Ilbo, 2 April 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.com/ >; O Tae Chin “The Goal North Korea Seeks to Achieve Behind Its Nuclear Development,” Chosun Ilbo (Seoul), 3 April 1990, p. 2, in “Steps Urged to Counter North’s Nuclear Threat,” FBIS-EAS-90-068, 9 April 1990, pp. 37-8; “Pukhan’ŭi ‘Haeksoksem’ (Kijasuch’ŏp),” Chosun Ilbo, 3 April 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.com/ >.
On a second day of talks with Soviet Foreign Minister Eduard A. Shevardnadze, US Secretary of State James Baker asked for the USSRs cooperation in encouraging North Korea to halt its nuclear development. Both sides agree that North Korea should sign an IAEA safeguards agreement.
—“Mi, So Hanbando’gunsa Kyunhyŏng Hyŏp’ŭi/Yangguk Woemuhoedam,” Kukmin Ilbo, 6 April 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.com/ >; “So ‘Nambukhan Chungjaeyŏk Yong’ŭi’/Shevardnadze Hanbandosŏdo Kunch’ukkanŭng,” Joongang Ilbo, 6 April 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.com/>; Kim Byŏng Mu, “Sosŏ Han’gukkwa Kukkyosuriphamyŏn Mido Taebuksu’gyo Chunbi Katch’ul’gŏt,” Segye Ilbo, 7 April 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.com/>.
Henry Rowen, assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs in the US Department of Defense, tells reporters that the United States believes North Korea is building a reprocessing facility to separate plutonium for nuclear weapons.
—Pukhan, Haegyŏllyo Chaech’ŏrigongjang Kŏnsŏlchung’/Rowen Mi’gukpangch’a’gwanbo,” Hankook Ilbo, 14 April 1990, p. 4, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.com/ >; “Pukhan, Haekjaech’ŏrigongjang Kŏnsŏl/Mi Kukpangch’a’gwanbo,” Kukmin Ilbo, 13 April 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.com/>.
Tetsuya Endo, representative of the Japanese Mission in Vienna, urges North Korea to comply with IAEA agreements, but North Korea demands that nuclear-weapon states sign a treaty with non-nuclear weapon states forbidding the use of nuclear weapons against the latter. North Korea says that in return for this treaty, it will allow inspection of its facilities. International experts believe that North Korea’s request is merely a delaying tactic to allow it to develop nuclear weapons.
—Pang In Ch’ŏl, “Pukhan, ‘Haek Pulsayong Pojŭnghyŏpjŏng’ Yogu/Tonggyŏngshinmun Podo,” Joongang Ilbo, 15 April 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Yi Yun Song, Seoul Television Service (Tokyo), 15 April 1990, in “DPRK Offers Condition for Nuclear Verification,” FBIS-EAS-90-073, 16 April 1990, p. 20; “Haek Sayonggŭmjihyŏpjŏng Yogu/ Pukhan, Haekkŏmjŭng Surakchŏ’gŏn,” Taehan Maeil, 17 April 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/ >.
During the fifth annual joint conference of the Korean Atomic Industrial Forum held in Seoul, Boris Semenov, Deputy Director General of the IAEA, says that North Korea will probably sign the IAEA safeguards agreement by September 1990. Semenov says that the IAEA and North Korea have been negotiating over the agreement and that three or four paragraphs have been completed to the satisfaction of both parties.
—“Pukhan, ‘Haeg’anjŏnhyŏpjŏng’ 9 Wŏl’e Kaiphal Tŭt/IAEA Samuch’ajang Chŏnmang,” Kukmin Ilbo, 19 April 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>;Yonhap News Agency, 18 April 1990, in “IAEA Expects North Compliance by September,” FBIS-EAS-90-075, 18 April 1990, p. 22.
The United States and North Korea hold diplomatic talks in Beijing, the eighth round of talks between the two sides since December 1988. The sides discuss the return of the remains of US soldiers from the Korean War, an improvement in relations between the United States and North Korea, and an improvement in relations between Seoul and Pyongyang. According to the Donga Ilbo, a South Korean daily, the United States urges North Korea to comply with IAEA safeguards commitments.
—“Asian News: U.S., North Korea Resume Contact,” Japan Economic Newswire, 28 April 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Lee Jae Ho, “Pukhan, Miwa Taesŏlt’ongno Yuji’ Kyŏ’nyang/3 Kaewŏlman’ŭi Pukkyŏng 8 Ch’ajŏpch’ok Ŭimi,” Donga Ilbo, 29 April 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
According to the South China Morning Post, some foreign diplomats in Pyongyang doubt reports that North Korea will be able to produce nuclear weapons within two years using its facilities at Yŏngbyŏn. The diplomats say that North Korea could be building bogus facilities that appear to be a nuclear power plant and a reprocessing facility to use as bargaining chips.
—“Pukhan Yŏngbyŏnwŏnjŏn Ka’jja’il Kanŭngsŏng/Hong Kong Chi Podo,” Donga Ilbo, 9 May 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “Pukhan Wŏnjŏn Shisŏl Ŭijangmullo Ch’ujŏng,” Joongang Ilbo, 9 May 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
The United States and North Korea hold a ninth round of diplomatic talks in Beijing. According to a source in the South Korean Foreign Ministry, the agenda includes North Korea’s compliance with the IAEA safeguards.
—“Haek Hyŏpjŏnggaip Non’ŭihandŭt/Woemubu Tanggukja,” Taehan Maeil, 17 May 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Kim Byong Mu, “Mi, Pukkyŏngsŏ Pukhan’gwa Chŏn’gyŏk 9 Ch’ajŏpch’ok/Kwan’gye’gaesŏn Husokchoch’i Yogu,” Segye Ilbo, 17 May 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
During an interview following an academic conference in Washington, Choe U Jin, deputy director of North Koreas Institute of Disarmament and Peace [under the Foreign Ministry] says that North Korea cannot comply with IAEA safeguards unless the United States assures that it will not threaten North Korea with nuclear weapons. Choe strongly denies that North Korea is developing of nuclear weapons.
—Kim Ho Jun, “Pangmihaksuldan, Han’gukt’ŭkp’awŏn’gwa Hoe’gyŏn Naeyong,” Taehan Maeil, 21 May 1990, p. 3, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Byŏn Sang Gŭn, “Misŏ Han’gukhaekch’ŏlsu Anha’myŏn Pukhan, Haeg’anjyŏnhyŏp Kaip Kŏbu/Pukhan Kunch’ug’yŏn Busojang,” Donga Ilbo, 21 May 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Maeng Hyŏng Gyu, “Pukhan ‘Mi Wŏnhaedo Su’gyoanhae’/‘Pundan’goch’akhwa Uryŏ’,” Kukmin Ilbo, 21 May 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Kim Ho Jun, “Pukhan, Misŏ Sugyŏ Wŏnhaedo Pul’ŭng,” Taehan Maeil, 21 May 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
A “Japanese government source” says that as a condition for signing an IAEA safeguards agreement, North Korea is seeking a written assurance from the United States that Washington will not attack North Korea with nuclear weapons. In return, North Korea will agree to accept IAEA inspections.
—“Pukhan, Haekshisŏl Kŏmjŭng Chŏnje Mi Pugkonggyŏk Munsŏhwayogu,” Syege Ilbo, 23 May 1990, p. 6, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
“A high-ranking US official” says that North Korea is threatening to withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). The official also says that Pyongyangs threat to withdraw will be discussed during US-USSR summit talks next week, and that the United States will ask the Soviet Union to exert its influence on North Korea to help resolve this issue.
—Kim Ho Jun, “Pukhan, ‘Heakpihwaksanjoyak’ T’alt’oe Wihyŏp/Haeg’anjŏnbojanghyŏpjŏng Ch’egyŏl Kŏbu,” Taehan Maeil, 26 May 1990, p. 4, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Kim Byŏng Mu, “Pukhan, Haek Hwaksan’gŭmjijoyak T’alt’oe Wihyŏp/Mi, So’e Yŏnghyangnyŏkhaengsa Chongyong,” Segye Ilbo, 26 May 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
South Korean President Roh Tae Woo meets with Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev in San Francisco, where they agree in principle to establish diplomatic relations, and “to expand economic, scientific, and technical links.” The meeting infuriates the North Korean leadership, and seriously worsens already deteriorating North Korea-USSR bilateral relations. North Korean media later criticized Roh for his “flunkeyist, submissive and traitorous trip,” and also say, “Our people cannot but have a doubt about the attitude of the Kremlin which sat face-to-face with such a dictator.” Gorbachev emphasizes that North Korea’s nuclear development should be stopped.
—Martin Fletcher, “Moscow Ties with Seoul to Thaw Ice,” The Times, 6 June 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >; Joe Joseph, “North Korea Hits at ‘Traitorous Pair’,” The Times, 8 June 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >; Martin Fletcher, “Boost for ‘Gorby’ as Mania Factor Continues,” The Times, 5 June 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Lee Sang Ch’ŏl, “Hanjung Chŏngsanghoedamdo Ch’ujin/No Taet’ongnyŏng ‘’P’ihalsuŏpnŭn Kwaje Chunggukto Kŏmt’o’,” Chosun Ilbo, 8 June 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
During his visit to Washington on his way back from the IAEA Board of Governors held in Vienna, South Korea’s Minister of Science and Technology Chŏng Kŭn Mo says that North Korea has notified the IAEA that it will send a delegation to the IAEA in mid July 1990 to discuss signing the IAEA safeguards agreement. He estimates that North Korea is likely to sign the safeguards agreement before August when the NPT Review Conference is to be held in Vienna. He also announces that the USSR cancelled the sale of four nuclear reactors to North Korea.
—Kim Ho Jun, “So, Pukhan’e Wŏnjarop’anmae Chungdan/Pangmi Chŏngkwakich’ŏ,” Taehan Maeil, 16 June 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “So Wŏnjyŏn Pukhan P’anmae Ch’wiso/Chŏng Kwagich’ŏng Palghyŏ,” Donga Ilbo, 17 June 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Yi Chang Sun, “Shocks and Ripple Effects of ‘Speculation on the North’s Manufacturing of Nuclear Weapons on Six Months,” Seoul Shinmun (Seoul), 19 June 1990, p. 5, in “Daily Speculates on North’s Nuclear Capability,” in FBIS-EAS-90-122, 25 June 1990, p. 31; Margaret L. Ryan, “IAEA Plans Quick Vote If Pact Made on North Korean Safeguards,” Nucleonics Week, 21 June 1990, pp. 7-8.
Fred Ikle, undersecretary of defense for policy in the Reagan administration, says that Korea can become a nuclear power after unification by taking over North Koreas current nuclear program.
—“Nambukhan T’ong’ilddaen Hanbando Haengmujang,” Chosun Ilbo, 17 June 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
The Sunday Times reports that the USSR has recently informed the United States that East Germany and Romania have sold “enriched uranium and sensitive nuclear materials to North Korea. The report also says that the Soviet Union has estimated that North Korea could have nuclear weapons within six months.
—James Adams, “Russians Sound Nuclear Warning of North Korea,” Sunday Times, 17 June 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Pak Sŭng Jun, “Pukhan, Yŏnnae Haekjejo Ka’nŭng/Sosŏ Mi’e Chŏngbo Chegong,” Chosun Ilbo, 18 June 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
The US State Department denies reports that North Korea will be capable of producing nuclear weapons within six months.
—“Mi, Pukhan Haek Poyusŏl Puin/Kungmubu ‘So Mi T’onmgbo Sashilmugŭn’,” KyunghyangShinmun, 19 June 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “‘Pukhan Haengmugi Sashilhwag’in Chag’ŏp’/Chŏngbudanggukcha ‘Tangjangboyu Hoeŭijŏk’,” Hankook Ilbo, 19 June 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
The Kukmin Ilbo, a South Korean daily, reports there are about 3,000 nuclear physicists and technicians working in North Korea’s atomic energy field.
—Lee Shin U, “Pukhan Haekkaebal/Hanbando Tŏpch’in Sae ‘Kinjangp’ago’,” Kukmin Ilbo, 18 June 1990, p. 4, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
South Korea’s Minister of Science and Technology Chŏng Kŭn Mo says that from a technological perspective, it would seem difficult for North Korea to produce nuclear weapons before the end of this year. Chŏng says he is skeptical about this possibility.
—“Pukhan, Haengmugigaebal ‘Yŏnnae’ En Hoeŭijŏk/Chŏng Kwagich’ŏjanggwan Palg’hyŏ,” Joongang Ilbo, 20 June 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
A Japanese official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs says that neither North Korea’s acceptance of the IAEA safeguards agreement nor progress in inter-Korea talks are necessary for normalizing Japan-North Korea diplomatic relations.
—Kim Se Wŏn, “Il, Pukhan’gwan’gye Chŏkkŭk Kaesŏn/Chungsanwoesang Haek Anjŏnhyŏpchŏng Kaip Chŏnjejo’gŏn Anida,” Donga Ilbo, 21 June 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
At a symposium sponsored by the Cato Institute in Washington, D.C., Selig Harrison of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace says that the United States has 60 nuclear weapons for F-16s fighter-bombers stored at Kunsan Air Base in South Korea. Harrison says the United States has also deployed 21 “nuclear mines,” 40 eight-inch nuclear artillery pieces, thirty 155mm nuclear artillery pieces, and 20 Lance missiles with nuclear warheads in South Korea.
—Chŏng Yŏn Ju, “Chuhanmi’gun Haekpoyu Hyŏnhwang Hwag’in,” Hankyoreh Shinmun, 23 June 1990, p. 6, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
In a report submitted to the National Assembly’s National Defense Committee, Defense Minister Lee Sang Hun says that he expects North Korea to complete construction of its plutonium reprocessing facility in Yŏngbyŏn by the end of the year, and that North Korea will be able to produce nuclear weapons by the mid-1990s.
—Yonhap News Agency, 22 June 1990, in “South Korean Defence Minister on Team Spirit Review, North’s Nuclear Capability,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 23 June 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “‘Pukhan, 90 Nyŏndae Chungban Haengmugi Chejo’/ Lee Kukpang, Sang’wi Pogo,” Taehan Maeil, 23 June 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “‘Team Spirit Chŏnmyŏn Chaegŏmt’o’/Pukhan, 90 Nyŏndae Chungban Haekkaebal,” Hankook Ilbo, 23 June 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
General Louis C. Menetrey, Commander-in-Chief, United Nations Command, and Commander, United States Forces Korea, says that North Korea is still at the early stages of nuclear weapons development and production, but it is highly probable that North Korea has deployed chemical and biological weapons.
—“Pukhan Haekkaebal Kich’odan’gye/Menetrey Saryŏnggwan,” Segye Ilbo, 26 June 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “‘Pukhan Haekkaebal Kich’odan’gye’/Saenghwahak Paech’i Kanŭngsŏ K’ŏ,” Hankook Ilbo, 26 June 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
South Korean Prime Minister Kang Yŏng Hun tells the National Assembly that South Korean nuclear experts are skeptical about the possibility of North Korea being able to produce nuclear weapons by the end of the year. Kang also said that he would do his best to find out the possibility of North Korea acquiring nuclear weapons, and cooperate with the IAEA.
—“‘Nambuk Pulgach’im Sŏn’ŏn Chŏkkŭkkŏmt’o’/Hong T’ong’ilwŏn Kukhoedappyŏn,” Hankook Ilbo, 27 June 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “Oegyo-T’ong’ilbunya Taejŏngbujilmun-Tappyŏnnaeyong (Kukhoenog’ŭm 26 Il Ponhoeŭi),” Hankook Ilbo, 27 June 1990, p. 3, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
South Korea’s National Unification Board submits a report to the National Assembly that says the Board is working to pressure North Korea into signing a full-scope IAEA safeguards agreement.
—“Pukhan Haekkaebal Taebich’aek Kanggu/T’ongilwŏn, Kukhoejaryo/Nambuk Kunbi’t’ongje Shilhyŏn Noryŏk” Taehan Maeil, 4 July 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
At the G-7 meeting in Houston, Texas, the participants issue a statement requesting North Korea to sign an IAEA safeguards agreement.
—Kim Byŏng Mu, “Pukhan Haekhyŏpchŏng Kaip Ch’okku/G7 Chŏngsanghoedam,” Segye Ilbo, 12 July 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
In Honolulu, Admiral Huntington Hardisty, Commander in Chief, US Pacific Command, tells Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Nakayama that he is concerned that North Korea could be independently developing a production facility for nuclear weapons. Hardisty made his remarks in a discussion about North Korea’s construction of a plutonium reprocessing facility.
—“Pukhan Haengmugi Uryŏ Tokcha Kongjang Kŏnsŏl Kanŭngsŏng,” Chosun Ilbo, 15 July 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
In response to US demands that North Korea sign the IAEA safeguards agreement, North Korea says that it is prepared to sign the agreement if the United States removes its nuclear threat to North Korea. Pyongyang claims it signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) under the assumption that it would lead to a nuclear weapons free zone on the Korean Peninsula.
—Korean Central News Agency (Pyongyang), 16 July 1990, in “North Korea Will Sign IAEA Treaty if USA Removes Nuclear Threat,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 17 July 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >; “Pyongyang Demands Removal of U.S. Nuclear Threat,” Xinhua News Agency, 16 July 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
The Yomiuri Shimbun cites a “US nuclear expert” as having said that the Soviet Union has recently suspended its support to North Korea for the construction of nuclear power plants. The plants were part of a quid pro quo for North Korea signing the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) in December 1985.
—Cho Yang Ok, “So, Pukhan Wŏnjŏn’gonsŏl Wŏnjo Tonggyŏl,” Kukmin Ilbo, 21 July 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
A Japanese Foreign Ministry source says North Korea would like to propose direct talks with the United States as a precondition for agreeing to IAEA on-site inspections. According to the source, North Korea claims that it will sign the IAEA’s safeguards agreement if the United States: 1) promises not to launch a nuclear attack against it, and 2) withdraws nuclear weapons from South Korea.
—“N. Korea Wants Direct Talks On Nuclear Inspections,” Japan Economic Newswire, 21 July 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >; “Taemi Chikchŏptaehwa-Han’gukpaech’i Haek Ch’ŏlgŏ Chŏnjero/Pukhan, Haek Hŏnjangjosa Cheŭi,” Hankook Ilbo, 22 July 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “Pukhan, Mi’e Haek Sach’allon’ŭi Cheŭi/Washington Tangguk Hwag’in,” Taehan Maeil, 22 July 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
US government sources say the United States has rejected a North Korean request that the United States negotiate the withdrawal of US nuclear weapons from South Korea as a precondition for North Korea’s acceptance of IAEA safeguards inspections.
—“U.S. Rejects N. Korean Conditions on Nuclear Inspection,” Japan Economic Newswire, 31 July 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “Mi, Pukhan Haekhyŏpsang’an Kŏbu,” Hankook Ilbo, 1 August 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
Leonard Spector of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace says that North Korea will be able to produce weapon-grade plutonium within five years. Spector says that North Korea has the nuclear reactors and is now building a reprocessing facility to produce the plutonium.
—“Haengmugi Wŏllyo Plutonium/Pukhan 5 Nyŏnnae Saengsan’ganŭng/Migukhakja Chujang,” Hankyoreh Shinmun, 17 August 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
At the Nuclear Nonproliferation Review Conference, Japanese envoy Mitsuro Donowaki, in a clear reference to North Korea, expresses “major concern” that some signatories of the treaty have failed to sign safeguards agreements with the IAEA.
—“Japan Urges China, France to Join Nuclear Accord,” Japan Economic Newswire,” 22 August 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
During Soviet Foreign Minister Eduard Shevardnadze’s visit to Pyongyang, North Korea warns the USSR that Pyongyang is prepared to produce nuclear weapons if Moscow establishes diplomatic relations with Seoul.
—Vladimir Nadashkevich and Georgi Shmelev, “Visit by Soviet Foreign Minister to People’s Korea,” ITAR-TASS News Agency, 3 September 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Kyodo News Service, “Soviet Paper reports N. Korean Threat to Develop N-Arms,” Japan Economic Newswire, 29 November 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Ch’ae Ŭi Sŏk, “Soryŏn’i Han’guk’kwa Kukkyo Suriphandamyŏn/Pukhan ‘Haengmugi Chach’e Saengsan’ Kyŏnggo,” Segye Ilbo, 30 November 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Cho Yang Uk, “Pukhan, So’e ‘Haekkaebal’ Kyŏnggo/p Wŏl Oemuhoedamsŏ/Han-So Sugyo Pulman P’yoshi,” Kukmin Ilbo, 30 November 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
The IAEA holds the 34th session of its General Conference in Vienna. During the conference, 15 countries including the United States, the USSR, and Japan demand that North Korea sign an IAEA safeguards agreement.
—Yuri Kozlov, “34th Session of IAEA General Conference,” ITAR-TASS News Agency, 17 September 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “Mi-So, Pukhanhaekhyŏpchog Ch’okku/IAEA... 15 Kaeguk Ipchang P’alp’yo,” Hankook Ilbo, 20 September 1990, p. 4, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Ch’oe Maeng Ho, “Kukchewŏnjaryŏkkigu/Pukhan’e Yugam P’yomyŏng/Haeg’anjŏnhyŏpchŏng Kip’i Pinan,” Donga Ilbo, 22 September 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
North Korea’s broadcast media accuse the United States of “slandering North Korea and making absurd accusations in connection with the safeguards agreement pursuant to the NPT.” North Korea says it is willing to sign the safeguards agreement if the United States ceases its nuclear threats.
—Korean Central Broadcasting Station, 18 September 1990, in “North Korea Explains Its Refusal to Sign Nuclear Safeguards Agreement,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 19 September 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.
While meeting with Japan’s former Deputy Prime Minister Shin Kanemaru and Vice Chairman of the Japanese Socialist Party Makoto Tanabe, North Korean President Kim Il Sung declines to discuss North Korea’s refusal to sign the IAEA safeguards agreement. However, Kim claims that North Korea has no intentions of manufacturing nuclear weapons, and if North Korea is to be subject to inspections, so should South Korea.
—“Kim Il Sung Denies North Korea Has Nuclear Capability,” Kyodo News Service (Tokyo), 26 September 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Lee Dong Chu, “Chogit’ong’ilgiun Nop’agagoitta/Kimjusŏk, Haengmugijejonŭngnyŏkto Ŏbsŏ,” Kyunghyang Shinmun, 27 September 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
A “high-level source” in the South Korean government says that China has recently been strongly encouraging North Korea to sign an IAEA safeguards agreement.
—“Haeg’anjŏnhyŏpjŏng Sŏmyŏnggaebang Chugu/Chungguk, Pyk’e Kongshik Kwŏnyu,” Chosun Ilbo, 8 October 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
“Soviet sources” say the USSR has suspended all assistance for the construction of nuclear power plants in North Korea until Pyongyang is willing to accept IAEA safeguards inspections.
—Kyodo News Service, “Moscow Stops Nuclear Aid to N. Korea Till Checks Allowed,” Japan Economic Newswire, 18 October 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “‘Haeksach’al Surakhal Ddaeggaji So, Pukhan Wŏnjŏnjiwŏn Tonggyŏl’/Il Kyodot’ongshin Podo,” Segye Ilbo, 20 October 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it will request North Korea’s agreement to inspections of its nuclear facilities in Yŏngbyŏn-kun by Japanese officials if North Korea continues to refuse IAEA inspections.
—Kang Su Ung, “Pukhan Haeksach’al Kŏbuddaen Yŏngbyŏn Sach’al Yogu Kŏmt’o/Il Woemusŏng,” Taehan Maeil, 23 October 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
During a regional IAEA seminar in northern Japan, IAEA Director General Hans Blix says that North Korea is likely to sign the safeguards agreement within the next six months because there is “nothing left to discuss” in the ongoing negotiations. However, Blix also says that Pyongyang is seeking a guarantee that the United States will not attack North Korea with nuclear weapons.
—Naoaki Usui, “Blix Says North Korea Is Close to Finalizing Its NPT Safeguards,” Nucleonics Week, Vol. 31, No. 45, 8 November 1990, p. 14, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
According to a “source in Japan’s Foreign Ministry,” US military intelligence officials brief Japanese officials on the North Korean nuclear weapons program. The US officials say that North Korea has a large nuclear reactor and reprocessing facility in Yŏngbyŏn-kun that will give North Korea the capability to produce three-six nuclear weapons per year by 1995.
—Lee Nak Yŏn, “‘Pukhan, 95 Nyŏn Haekt’an Kanŭng’/Mi, Pug’il Kwan’gyegaesŏn Uryŏ P’yomyŏng,” Donga Ilbo, 17 November 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “Pukhan, haekt’an Chejosŏlbi Katch’wŏ/95 Nyŏnkkaji 3~6 Kae Poyuganŭng,” Kukmin Ilbo, 17 November 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
A spokesman for Japan’s Foreign Ministry says that North Korea and the IAEA agreed on the terms for on-site nuclear inspections in July, but says he believes North Korea has yet to accept inspections because the United States has yet to meet its demand not to use nuclear weapons against North Korea.
—Kyodo News Service, “N. Korea Agrees to Inspection of Nuclear Facilities,” Japan Economic Newswire, 2 November 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “Pukahn Kukchehaeksach’al Tong’ŭi/IAEA Samuch’ongjang,” Donga Ilbo, 3 November 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Cho Yang Ok, “‘Pukhan, Haeksach’al Tong’ŭi’/IAEA Kukchang/Mi Haengmugi Pulsayong Chŏnje,” Kukmin Ilbo, 3 November 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
The South Korean Foreign Ministry says the South Korean government believes there is no foundation to reports that North Korea and the IAEA have concluded an agreement for the inspection of North Korea’s nuclear facilities.
—“Ŏlmana Sashil’inji Hwag’inhal P’ilyoitta/Oemubusŏ Palghyŏ,” Joongang Ilbo, 3 November 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense releases its annual White Paper. The report says North Korea will probably be able to produce nuclear weapons by 1995. Furthermore, the reprocessing facility under construction in Yŏngbyŏn-kun should be able to reprocess large quantities of plutonium within one or two years.
—“Pukhan Hwasaengbangmugi Kaebal Churŏk/95 Nyŏnkkaji Haekboyu Kanŭng,” Kukmin Ilbo, 8 November 1990, p. 14, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “Pukhan Pyŏngnyŏk Namhan’ŭi 1.5 Pae/Chŏnggyugun 99 Manmyŏng,” Joongang Ilbo, 8 November 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “‘Pukhan, Yŏndaegŭpkkaji Hwahakpudae’/Sangbigun’ŭn Lan/ŭi 1.5 Pae,” Hankook Ilbo, 9 November 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
North Korea’s Rodong Sinmun, the official daily of the Korean Workers’ Party, calls for the establishment of a nuclear-free zone on the Korean peninsula. The article says North Korea has no nuclear weapons and that Pyongyang has always pursued anti-nuclear and anti-war policies.
—Vladimir Nadashkevich, “North Korea Favours a Nuke-Free Zone on Korean Peninsula,” ITAR-Tass News Agency, 9 November 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “Hanbando Pihaekchidae Ch’okku/Pukhan Rodongshinmun,” Donga Ilbo, 11 November 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
According to a North Korean Foreign Ministry statement released by the North Korean Permanent Observer Mission to the United Nations, North Korea will accept the IAEA safeguards agreement after the Korean peninsula is transformed into a nuclear weapons-free zone, and the United States withdraws its nuclear forces from the region. The statement also says that North Korea “can sign a nuclear safeguards agreement only on condition that the United States gives legal assurances that it would not resort” to the use of nuclear weapons against North Korea.
—Leonard S. Spector and Jacqueline R. Smith, “North Korea: The Next Nuclear Nightmare?,” Arms Control Today, March 1991, p. 10; Pak Yŏng Hŭi, “‘Chuhanmigun Haekkwa Tongshijosa’/Pukhan, Haeksach’al Chogŏn Cheshi,” Segye Ilbo, 17 November 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “Migukkwa Hyŏpsang Twi Haeksach’al Suyong,” Hankyoreh Shinmun, 17 November 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
Following a US-IAEA-North Korean meeting in China, US Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Richard Solomon receives a report that states North Korea may sign the IAEA safeguards agreement in order to improve relations with the United States and Japan.
—“N Koreans to Abide by NPT,” Jane's Defence Weekly, 24 November 1990, p. 1019.
South Korean President Roh Tae Woo meets with Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev in Moscow. In response to a question about North Korea’s refusal to sign an IAEA safeguards agreement, Gorbachev says the Soviet Union is completely against the proliferation of nuclear weapons.
—Kyodo News Service, “Highlights of S. Korean-Soviet Joint Declaration,” Japan Economic Newswire, 14 December 1990, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >; Kim Yŏng Han, “Naenyŏn Pom Panghan Shisa/Korŭbi/Pukhan Haekkyŏpchŏnggaip Ch’okku,” Kukmin Ilbo, 15 December 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Yun Kuk Han, “hanbando Muryŏksayongbaeje Sŏn’ŏn/Gorbachev Hoedam,” Hankyoreh Shinmun, 15 December 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
The Sankei Shimbun, a Japanese daily, reports that a facility under construction in Yŏngbyŏn is undoubtedly a nuclear reprocessing facility for the production of nuclear weapons.
—“Pukhan Yŏngbyŏn Wŏnjaryŏg’yŏn/Haekkaebalshilsŏl Hwakshil/Il San’gyŏngshinmun Podo,” Joongang Ilbo, 26 December 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “Pukhan Yŏngbyŏnyŏn’guso Haekchejoshisŏl Punmyŏng/Il Sank’eishinmun Podo,” Kyunghyang Shinmun, 26 December 1990, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; “pukhan, Wŏnp’okchejo Kŏŭi Hwakshil/Ilchi,” Kukmin Ilbo, 26 December 1990, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/ >.
Key Sources:
North Korea Advisory Group, Report to the Speaker, US House of Representatives, November 1999; Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., The Armed Forces of North Korea (New York: I.B. Tauris Publishers, 2001) p. 227;
Mun Hui-sang, "How North Korea and South Korea Are Heading for Arms Reduction," Sisa Journal (Seoul), online version, 5 July 2000, translated in FBIS Document ID KPP20000710000086
