North Korea criticized Japan's plan to revise three key national security documents, calling it a revival of 'neo-militarism' that would result in 'complete self-destruction.' The Korean Central News Agency issued the statement on January 11, 2026, following Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's New Year's announcement of the review amid ongoing regional tensions.
North Korea's Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on January 11, 2026, condemned Japan's push to update its National Security Strategy, National Defense Strategy, and Defense Buildup Program by year's end. The North described the effort as a "clear demonstration of a craze for neo-militarism," accusing Japan of denying its historical wrongdoings and pursuing rearmament to revive its imperial past. "What Japan would gain through neo-militarism is only complete self-destruction," KCNA stated. "As history demonstrates, the destination of militarism would be a failed Japan, not a strong Japan."
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced the review during a New Year's press conference earlier in January, stating it aimed to protect Japan's independence, peace, and citizens' lives. This follows North Korea's December 2025 warning against perceived Japanese nuclear ambitions after a government official's suggestion prompted a reaffirmation of Tokyo's non-nuclear principles—highlighting persistent strains fueled by Japan's defense buildup amid threats from nuclear-armed neighbors.
