North Korea has expanded its list of crimes punishable by death from 11 to 16, according to reports from Yonhap News Agency. The new offenses include anti-state propaganda, illegal manufacturing, and illicit weapon use, reflecting a tightening grip by Kim Jong Un's regime. These changes are part of broader revisions to criminal law made between May 2022 and December 2023, aiming to reinforce state control over the populace.

Axar.az reports that human rights groups have long expressed concern about North Korea's use of the death penalty, as reliable statistics are nearly impossible to obtain due to the secretive nature of the regime. Rеports indicate severe punishments for behaviors considered "reactionary," such as consuming South Korean media, wearing certain clothing styles, or using specific slang.

In a related context, Kim Jong Un has vowed to strengthen North Korea's nuclear capabilities, highlighting the perceived threats from the United States and its allies. This commitment was reaffirmed during recent state celebrations, emphasizing the regime's focus on military readiness amid regional tensions.