North Korea’s defence minister dismissed

North Korea's defence minister, Kwang Chol, has been dismissed and demoted in the ruling party leadership, according to state media. The decision was made during a meeting led by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Kim Song Gi, the director of the General Political Bureau of the Korean People's Army, has been appointed as the new defence minister. Additionally, Pak Jong Chon, a senior official, has been given the position of vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and added to the ruling party's Political Bureau.

On Saturday, Kim Jong Un also honoured scientists, researchers, and officials at a ceremony, acknowledging their advancements in defence technology. These scientists and researchers were given top national honours for their contributions to developing new combat weapon systems. In late June, Kim oversaw tests of a new extended-range multiple rocket launcher and artillery.

The leadership reshuffle comes shortly after annual joint drills between South Korea and the US concluded. These drills, which Pyongyang views as invasion preparations, were closely watched this year due to US President Donald Trump's decision to shorten them. Trump had criticized the drills as provocative and South Korea for not supporting his war against Iran.

Despite Trump's overtures and multiple meetings with Kim, North Korea has shown little interest in reciprocating. Pyongyang has continued to fire missiles and condemn US-approved arms sales to South Korea, as well as funding programmes that document human rights abuses in the North.