Key facts
- North Korean Defense Minister Kim Song-gi criticized the Freedom Edge joint military exercise.
- Kim Song-gi stated the exercise poses a significant security threat.
- He vowed to take strong countermeasures against the U.S. and its allies.
- South Korean DP leader Kim Min-seok called for enhanced security capabilities.
- Kim Min-seok suggested a 'freeze-first' approach to North Korea's nuclear program.
North Korean Defense Minister Kim Song-gi strongly denounced the ongoing Freedom Edge military exercise, which involves South Korea, the United States, and Japan. In a statement reported by Pyongyang's official media, Kim vowed to take "strong and reflective countermeasures" if the U.S. and its allies attempt to provoke a new military confrontation.