North Korean Leader's Sister Criticizes U.S.-South Korea Military Drills

Kim Yo Jong warns of "terrible consequences" if North Korea's safety is challenged

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Kim Yo Jong, criticized the United States and South Korea for proceeding with their annual joint military exercises, saying it undermines regional stability at a time of global security concerns. She warned that any challenge to North Korea's safety would bring "terrible consequences" as the country continues to bolster its "destructive power" against perceived external threats.

Why it matters

The U.S.-South Korea military drills are a longstanding source of tension with North Korea, which views them as invasion rehearsals. Kim Yo Jong's statement reflects North Korea's efforts to portray itself as part of a united front against the U.S. and its allies, deepening ties with Russia and China amid a diplomatic freeze with Washington and Seoul.

The details

The 11-day Freedom Shield exercise involves thousands of troops and is designed to test the allies' joint operational capabilities. North Korea has long used the drills as a pretext to ramp up its own military demonstrations or weapons tests. Meanwhile, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung acknowledged some U.S. anti-defense weapons could be relocated to support operations in the Middle East, though he said such moves wouldn't seriously undermine defenses against North Korea.

  • The Freedom Shield exercise started on March 9, 2026.
  • Kim Yo Jong's statement was released on March 10, 2026.

The players

Kim Yo Jong

The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Lee Jae Myung

The President of South Korea.

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What they’re saying

“Any challenge to the safety of our state and our people will be met with the most overwhelming nuclear force, and those who dared to challenge it will face the most terrible consequences.”

— Kim Yo Jong (nbcnews.com)

“Our government has expressed opposition to such moves, but it's also an undeniable reality that we cannot fully control the situation according to our wishes.”

— Lee Jae Myung, South Korean President (nbcnews.com)

What’s next

The U.S. and South Korea are expected to continue the Freedom Shield military exercises as planned, despite North Korea's criticism. The situation remains tense as North Korea continues to bolster its nuclear and military capabilities.

The takeaway

North Korea's criticism of the U.S.-South Korea military drills underscores the ongoing tensions and security challenges in the region. The country's growing nuclear program and deepening ties with Russia and China further complicate efforts to maintain stability and prevent escalation of conflicts.