North Korea formalises nuclear control under Kim

North Korea has amended its constitution to formally define its territorial scope for the first time and expand the powers of leader Kim Jong Un, including explicit authority over nuclear forces, according to The Chosun Daily, citing sources familiar with the document.

The amendments were adopted in March during a session of the country’s Supreme People’s Assembly. Under the revised Article 2, North Korea’s territory is defined as including land bordering China and Russia to the north and South Korea to the south, along with adjacent waters and airspace. This marks the first explicit inclusion of territorial provisions in the constitution.

The updated document also removes earlier language tied to Korean reunification and harsh rhetoric toward Seoul. Phrases such as “reunification of the fatherland” have been excluded, reflecting a previously announced shift in Pyongyang’s policy direction.

The changes further consolidate Kim Jong Un’s authority. As chairman of the State Affairs Commission, he is formally designated as head of state, granted expanded powers over personnel appointments, and positioned above parliament within the state hierarchy. The constitution now explicitly states that he controls nuclear forces and has the authority to delegate that control.

In addition, references to former leaders Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il have been removed from the preamble, and the overall structure of the constitution has been revised to a more standardized format.

Professor Lee Jung-chul of Seoul National University said the amendments suggest Pyongyang is seeking to “normalise” its state structure, bringing it closer to the model of sovereign states.

By Tamilla Hasanova