North Korea’s Nuclear Complex Just Got a Major Upgrade– Satellite Photos Show Surprising Changes

North Korea is reportedly refurbishing its Yongbyon nuclear facility to lay the groundwork for stockpiling nuclear materials, according to a recent analysis.

38 North reported on Monday that satellite imagery analysis showed construction work on the radiochemical laboratory within the Yongbyon nuclear complex is nearing completion.

The report highlights significant developments at the Yongbyon site, including the completion of repairs to the radiochemical laboratory’s steam plant roof and the reactivation of the 5-megawatt (MW) reactor. The reactor is crucial for weapons-grade plutonium production and has reportedly resumed operations following a three-month hiatus.

38 North suggests that these renovations align with the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s directive to expand North Korea’s nuclear arsenal.

Analysts can track reactor activity by observing vehicle presence near the facility and monitoring cooling water discharge. Steam emissions from the facility typically indicate plutonium production through the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel rods.

The experimental light water reactor (ELWR) continues to show signs of activity, with intermittent water discharges suggesting ongoing commissioning efforts.

Satellite imagery revealed approximately 40 pits, each about three feet in diameter, dug in a courtyard near the laboratory. The purpose of this excavation is unclear, but 38 North noted that the proximity to radioactive waste disposal areas warrants further monitoring to determine if the activity is linked to waste management. Personnel presence at the site indicates that excavation work is still in progress.

Flood prevention measures have also been implemented near the nuclear facility. The Yongbyon complex, situated close to the Kuryong River, has a history of flooding. 38 North’s analysis suggests that recent construction has bolstered flood defenses, including raising embankments.

The Yongbyon nuclear facility remains a focal point for North Korea’s nuclear weapons program, drawing scrutiny from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and security experts. However, after North Korea’s withdrawal from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), the facility no longer falls under IAEA monitoring.