Kim Jong Un joining hands with the US? Extends olive branch but warns South Korea of complete destruction

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has issued a starkly diplomatic message that deepens the divide on the Korean Peninsula while opening a narrow window toward the United States. Speaking at the conclusion of the 9th Congress of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea in Pyongyang, Kim made clear that relations with South Korea are irreparable under current conditions but suggested that improved ties with the United States are possible if Washington abandons what Pyongyang terms a “hostile” approach.

Kim declared that North Korea would “permanently exclude South Korea from the category of kinship,” effectively renouncing decades of rhetoric on reunification and inter-Korean engagement.

He characterised Seoul as the “most hostile entity” and accused the current South Korean administration of deceit and poor diplomacy, dismissing its attempts at conciliation as insincere and incapable of bridging the ideological divide.


"As long as South Korea cannot escape the geopolitical conditions of having a border with us, the only way to live safely is to give up everything related to us and leave us alone."

In reaffirming this stance, Kim asserted that Pyongyang has “absolutely no business dealing” with South Korea and warned that the “complete collapse” of the South could not be ruled out should Seoul’s activities harm the North’s security environment.

Open door to US, but with conditions

In contrast to his hardline position on Seoul, Kim signalled conditional willingness to improve relations with the United States, a significant nuance in his address to the party congress.

Kim stated that there is “no reason why we cannot get along well with the United States” if Washington acknowledges North Korea’s status as a nuclear-armed state under the country’s constitution and withdraws what Pyongyang views as hostile policies.

This framing suggests Pyongyang is emphasising recognition of its nuclear capabilities as a cornerstone of any future dialogue, while leaving the ultimate shape of US–North Korea relations dependent on how the United States chooses to engage.

Kim underscored that Pyongyang is “prepared for both peaceful coexistence and permanent confrontation,” stressing that the choice lies with Washington’s policy decisions.

The political remarks came as North Korea concluded its week-long party congress with a large military parade in Pyongyang, showcasing armed forces as a visual assertion of strength amid escalating regional tensions.

Reports indicate that Kim reiterated plans to enhance nuclear and conventional capabilities and expanded tactical nuclear options.

Kim’s address and events in Pyongyang occur against a backdrop of increased joint US–South Korea military exercises scheduled for March 2026, a demonstration of alliance deterrence against North Korea’s growing arsenal.

Pyongyang has consistently denounced such drills as provocative, further complicating diplomatic prospects.

Any future dialogue with the United States, including a possible summit during the US President Donald Trump’s visit to China, depends heavily on how Washington responds to Pyongyang’s core demands and approach.