SEOUL: North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui stated that North Korea's status as a nuclear power is "final and irreversible" and that it will continue to build its forces until the US and its allies eliminate military threats. Her comments were in response to criticism from the G7 foreign ministers, who condemned North Korea's recent missile test and urged denuclearization.

Choe accused the G7 countries of illegally interfering in North Korea's internal affairs by demanding denuclearization and stated that North Korea would respond if they attempt to violate its sovereignty and fundamental interests. She further claimed that Pyongyang's development of nuclear weapons is only intended to guard against US threats, and urged Washington to drop its "hostile policy" against the North to ensure its own security.

The North Korean Foreign Minister stated that North Korea's position as a nuclear weapons state is an "undeniable and stark reality," and will remain so even if Western countries deny it. She emphasized that Pyongyang will never seek any recognition or approval from anyone and is satisfied with its ability to counter the US nuclear threat.

Choe also warned that the G7 countries should not underestimate North Korea's ability to defend itself and accused them of attempting to isolate North Korea from the international community. She concluded by saying that North Korea will continue to take action measures based on all legal rights granted to a sovereign state until the military threat posed by the US and its allied forces is completely removed.

In response, South Korea's unification ministry handling inter-Korean affairs denounced North Korea's statement as "far-fetched" and urged them to stop making threats and developing unlawful weapons programs. The ministry deputy spokesperson emphasized that North Korea will only become more isolated from the international community if they continue with their nuclear and missile development.