On May 8, 2026, North Korea announced plans to deploy new long-range artillery systems capable of targeting Seoul, the capital of South Korea, which is located approximately 40 to 50 kilometers from the border. This decision comes shortly after North Korea's revised constitution dropped all mentions of Korean unification, aligning with leader Kim Jong Un's commitment to sever ties with the South. The new artillery includes 155-mm self-propelled gun-howitzers with a striking range exceeding 60 kilometers (37 miles), enhancing North Korea's military capabilities. Kim also revealed plans to commission the country's first naval destroyer, the Choe Hyon, which is expected to be operational by mid-June. The ongoing military advancements reflect Kim's increasingly aggressive posture towards South Korea, which he has labeled as a permanent enemy. This shift marks a significant departure from previous policies aimed at peaceful reunification and poses a serious threat to the 10 million residents of Seoul. As tensions rise, North Korea has continued to expand its nuclear and missile programs, further complicating diplomatic relations.