North Korea Calls the IAEA a Puppet on a Hostile Stage
During the UN General Assembly session on Wednesday, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) blasted the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) as “a marionette dancing to the tune of hostile forces.” Meanwhile, the IAEA’s chief warned that Pyongyang’s nuclear program is still a serious concern.
What’s the Backstory?
- IAEA exit in 2009: The Vienna‑based agency was forced out of North Korea after inspectors were expelled.
- Ongoing nuclear push: Since then, the isolated state has continued its weapons program, with the last test conducted in September 2017.
- Remote monitoring: The IAEA now relies on satellite imagery and distant analysis to keep tabs on Pyongyang.
“The DPRK’s nuclear activities remain a cause for serious concern,” said IAEA Director‑General Rafael Mariano Grossi, “and the continuation of the country’s nuclear programme is a clear violation of relevant Security Council resolutions.”
North Korea’s Take on the Report
Kim Song, the DPRK’s UN Ambassador, slammed the annual IAEA report as “completely pervaded with guesswork and fabrication.” He added, “The IAEA is no more than a political tool of the western countries.”
Kim further claimed that, “The DPRK will never have any business to deal with the IAEA so long as it runs short of impartiality and objectivity… and remains a marionette dancing to the tune of hostile forces against the DPRK.”
Sanctions and Diplomatic Stalemate
- Sanctions: North Korea has faced UN Security Council sanctions since 2006, with the 15‑member council tightening limits to curb funding for its nuclear and missile programs.
- Meetings: Kim Jong‑Un and President Donald Trump met three times since 2018, but no breakthrough was achieved on the U.S. demand for denuclearization or the DPRK’s request to lift sanctions.
As the drama unfolds, both sides keep pointing fingers, and the world watches the puppet show with a mix of concern, frustration, and a touch of bemused awe.
