The major developments regarding North Korea as of September 22, 2026:

• State Media Claims Test of “New-Type Weapon”: State media outlet KCNA reported that Kim Jong Un oversaw the successful test of a new weapon system. This follows the launch of two short-range ballistic missiles into the sea from the Wonsan area, which were detected by South Korea and Japan. Kim stated that the test demonstrates advanced defense capabilities and significantly enhances war readiness.

  nippon.com+ 1

• Reported Asian Games Defection: Reports indicate that two members of North Korea’s official delegation attending the 2026 Asian Games in Japan have sought asylum. The individuals reportedly expressed their intention not to return home and preferred asylum in Japan.

  The Hindu+ 1

• Ongoing Rejection of Denuclearization Demands: Pyongyang reiterated that its status as a nuclear-armed state is permanent and irreversible, formally dismissing a recent International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) resolution calling for an end to its nuclear development activities.

  ABS-CBN