North Korea's Potential Power Play Amid U.S. Elections

North Korea may conduct an intercontinental ballistic missile test or another nuclear test around the U.S. presidential election. South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun warned this could happen before or after the election to attract international attention, during discussions with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

North Korea is potentially considering carrying out significant military actions, either by testing an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) or conducting another nuclear test. This comes as the U.S. gears up for its presidential elections, with North Korea likely seeking to draw global focus.

South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun highlighted the possibility on Wednesday, suggesting the actions could occur in the period surrounding the election, both before and after. Kim shared these comments during a meeting at the Pentagon, following discussions with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

The speculation underscores heightened security concerns, as tensions continue to simmer on the Korean Peninsula and officials weigh potential implications of such a move by North Korea.

(With inputs from agencies.)