North Korea Vows Strong Response to US Missile Sale to South Korea (2026-08-27)

North Korea's Foreign Ministry has condemned the United States' approval of a $125 million missile sale to South Korea, calling it a new threat to its security environment and vowing a powerful response. The statement, carried by state media KCNA on Thursday, comes amid renewed US outreach to Pyongyang.

A ministry spokesperson said the sale of AIM-9X Sidewinder air-to-air tactical missiles and related equipment demonstrates Washington's "always hostile" attitude toward the North. The spokesperson warned that Pyongyang will take a "serious, immediate and powerful response" to hostile acts in various areas.

The condemnation extends beyond the missile deal. North Korea also criticized US plans to fund documentation of its human rights situation and information gathering, describing these efforts as part of a campaign to destabilize its social system.

The spokesperson noted that Washington has approved multiple weapons systems for South Korea this year, including advanced air-to-air missiles, naval helicopters, attack helicopters, and precision-guided bombs. The statement argued that accelerating military integration between the US and its allies in the Asia-Pacific region cannot be ignored for its adverse effects on regional security.

The remarks follow President Donald Trump's recent expression of interest in another meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, with Trump saying Kim had responded to his outreach. Analysts, however, indicate Pyongyang has shown little official willingness to resume talks.