It is likely that North Korea is using the reactor to produce more material for bombs.
North Korea’s key nuclear complex in Yongbyon is experiencing a large release of water from the cooling system of its light water reactor (LWR). This was announced by IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, Yonhap reports.
It is noted that an increased level of activity has been recorded at the facility and water has been released since mid-October. In fact, the 5 MW reactor was out of service for several weeks in September and early October, but now there are signs of operation. Therefore, it is likely that the reactor was put into operation.
Thus, he indicated the possibility of a test launch that could be used to produce more material for nuclear bombs.
The IAEA leader pointed out that the continuation of North Korea’s nuclear program is an open violation of UN Security Council resolutions.
Also, according to Rafael Grossi, the nuclear test site in Punggye-ri is ready for new nuclear tests, which is a cause for concern
The nuclear complex in Yongbyon
The Yongbyon Nuclear Research Center is the largest nuclear facility in North Korea. It was founded in 1964.
According to media reports, the DPRK shut down the reactor at the end of September, which may indicate that it is working on reprocessing to produce weapons-grade plutonium used to make nuclear weapons. In addition, at the end of April, it was reported that the DPRK was expanding its nuclear complex. In particular, repair and construction work was observed near the reactor.
