This annotated chronology is based on the data sources that follow each entry. Public sources often provide conflicting information on classified military programs. In some cases we are unable to resolve these discrepancies, in others we have deliberately refrained from doing so to highlight the potential influence of false or misleading information as it appeared over time. In many cases, we are unable to independently verify claims. Hence in reviewing this chronology, readers should take into account the credibility of the sources employed here.
Inclusion in this chronology does not necessarily indicate that a particular development is of direct or indirect proliferation significance. Some entries provide international or domestic context for technological development and national policymaking. Moreover, some entries may refer to developments with positive consequences for nonproliferation.
Syria conducts several missile tests. Most are believed to be R-17s (Scud-Bs), but some may be Hwasŏng-6s.
—Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., "A History of Ballistic Missile Development in the DPRK," Occasional Paper No. 2, Center for Nonproliferation Studies, November 1999, p. 19.
North Korea resumes low-level deliveries of missile components to Iran.
—Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., "A History of Ballistic Missile Development in the DPRK," Occasional Paper No. 2, Center for Nonproliferation Studies, November 1999, p. 25.
Kang T'ae Yun, a North Korean diplomat in Pakistan, brokers a deal with the All Russian Institute of Light Alloys in Moscow for the delivery of maraging steel to Pakistan and North Korea. Customs officials in Gatwick Airport seized the maraging steel, addressed to Kang Thae Yun, when it was discovered on a British Airways flight from Moscow to Islamabad. Intelligence sources believe Kang T'ae Yun to be one of North Korea's busiest arms dealers.
––Dexter Filkins, "N. Korea Aid to Pakistan Raises Nuclear Fears," Los Angeles Times, 23 August 1999, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Julian West, "Pakistan Murder Exposes Nuclear Link: The Killing of a Diplomat's Wife has Revealed the Sinister Connection Between the North Koreans and the Pakistanis," Sunday Telegraph (London), 1 November 1998, p.32, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Lee Ch'ŏl Min, "Pakistan, Puk'e Haekkisul Chegong," Chosun Ilbo, 25 August 1999, p. 10, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
According to Japan Defense Agency sources, North Korea produces 20 Nodong-1 missiles. [Note: See entries for first half of 1998 and 2 January 1999.]
—"Report: North Korea Deploying Medium-Range Missiles," Associated Press, 2 January 1999, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Kyodo News Service, 2 January 1999, in "North Korea Deploying, Exporting Medium-Range Missiles – Japanese Report," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 2 January 1999, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >.
North Korea may have begun initial production of the Taepodong-1 (Paektusan-1). About one Taepodong-1 (Paektusan-1) per month can be produced if Hwasŏng-6 and Nodong production were curtailed.
—Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., "A History of Ballistic Missile Development in the DPRK," Occasional Paper No. 2, Center for Nonproliferation Studies, November 1999, p. 29.
NHK Television in Japan reports that a US reconnaissance satellite has detected the deployment of three mobile Nodong missile launchers on North Korea's east coast. The deployment follows the suspension of a Nodong flight test that was reportedly planned for October 1996.
—Makiko Tazaki, "North Korea Preparing for Another Test Firing," Agence France Presse, 11 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Puk, Missile Tonghaean Chaebaech'i/3 Ki Palsashihŏm Kanghaengt'aese...7 Ki Kot Ch'uga," Segye Ilbo, 12 April 1997, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
In testimony before the US Senate Intelligence Committee, CIA Director George Tenet and DIA Director Army Lt. General Patrick Hughes say that North Korea may be able to threaten the United States with intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) within 10-15 years. They say that the Taepodong-2, with a range of 4,000-6,000km, will be able to strike Alaska and Hawaii.
—Pak Tu Shik, "[Pukhan] 10-15 Nyŏnnae ICBM Kaebalganŭng...Mijŏngbogwan'gyejadŭl," Chosun Ilbo, 6 April 1997, <http://www.chosun.com/>.
Korean Workers Party Secretary Hwang Chang Hyŏp enters the South Korean Embassy in Beijing and asks for asylum, making him the highest-ranking North Korean to ever defect. North Korea initially denies Hwang's defection, claiming it is "an obvious abduction."
—"Blow to N. Korea as Senior Official Seeks Asylum in South," Agence France Presse, 12 February 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "N. Korea Denies Defector Seeks Asylum," United Press International, 13 February 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
Ecuador's Vistazo magazine reports that Peru intends to acquire Taepodong missiles from North Korea and is negotiating with international weapons firms to purchase eight missile launchers and thirty-two North Korean missiles, worth approximately one million dollars each. Peruvian military sources deny the report.
—Voz de los Andes (Quito), 20 March 1998, in "Magazine Reports Peru to Buy North Korean Missiles," FBIS-LAT-97-080, 21 March 1997, Document ID FTS19970321002232.
US satellite imagery detects three mobile Nodong missile launchers in northeastern North Korea. Analysts have also detected seven more deployed Nodongs at a base about 100km from Pyongyang, bringing the total of deployed Nodongs observed so far to ten.
—"Puk Nodong 1 Ho Missile Palsadae Paech'i," Chosun Ilbo, 31 May 1997, <http://www.chosun.com>; Paul Beaver, "Ten Nodongs Fielded but Accuracy is Low, Says USA," Jane's Defence Weekly, 28 May 1997, p. 4.
North Korea sends at least seven shipments of material for Scud-C production to Egypt. [Note: The types of materials are not specified.]
—Bill Gertz, "CIA Seeks Missile Data from Defector," Washington Times, 27 August 1997, p. A1.
US intelligence officials brief South Korean and Japanese officials on the North Korean deployment of Nodong ballistic missiles earlier this year. US intelligence sources surmise that North Korea may have deployed its Nodong-1 ballistic missiles prematurely, as the missiles lack a reliable guidance system. Without a reliable guidance system, the missile is more useful as a "terror weapon" rather than a strategic military weapon. US officials also believe that the principal difference between the Nodong-1 and -2 is the fuel supply system. The Nodong-2 may employ a redesigned fuel system to allow for longer burn times.
—Paul Beaver, "Ten Nodongs Fielded but Accuracy Is Low, Says USA," Jane's Defence Weekly, 28 May 1997, p. 4; "Puk Missile Nodong 1 Ho Terror Yong Mugi," Chosun Ilbo, 29 May 1997, <http://www.chosun.com>.
The US State Department reveals that the second round of missile talks between the United States and North Korea will be held early next month in New York.
—Debra Lau, "N. Korea Moves Closer to 4-Party Peace Talks," Daily Yomiuri, 10 April 1997, p. 11, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; George Gedda, "U.S. Weighs Additional Food Aid to North Korea," AP Worldstream, 9 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Mi-Puk, Naedalch'o 2 Ch'a Missile Hyŏpsang Chaegae Hab'ŭi," Chosun Ilbo, 10 April 1997, <http://www.chosun.com/>.
The Sankei Shimbun, citing a source on the Korean peninsula, says a US reconnaissance satellite has detected the deployment of Nodong missiles on the North Korean east coast. According to the report, three missiles have been deployed and the deployment of seven more will be completed soon. North Korea had suspended deployments during the fall of last year.
—Sankei Shimbum, 11 April 1997, in "Japanese Source Says Missiles Deployed Along Sea of Japan Coast," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 12 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Sankei Shimbun (Tokyo), 11 April 1997, in "Source: DPRK Deploys Nodong-1 Missile on Northeast Coast," FBIS-EAS-97-100, 10 April 1997, Document ID FTS199704100001252; "Pukhan Rodong 1 Ho Missile 10 Ki Tonghaean Paech'i," Chosun Ilbo, 11 April 1997, <http://www.chosun.com/>.
NHK Television in Japan, citing a US intelligence source, reports that North Korea is preparing to conduct a flight-test of a Nodong missile. The report also says three Nodong missiles have been deployed on North Korea's east coast, and seven more missiles will probably be deployed soon.
—Makiko Tazaki, "North Korea Preparing for Another Test Firing," Agence France Presse, 11 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "North Korea Resumes Preparation for Nodong-1 Test-Firing: Reports," Agence France Presse, 11 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Puk, Missile Tonghaean Chaebaech'i/3 Ki Palsashihŏm Kanghaengt'aese...7 Ki Kod Ch'uga," Segye Ilbo, 12 April 1997, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Park Chong Mun, "Puk Nodong 1 Ho Tonghaean Paech'i Hwag'in/NHK Podo," Hankyoreh Shinmun, 12 April 1997, p. 8, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
A high-level source in the South Korean Foreign Ministry says that the Four Party Talks between the United States, China, North Korea and South Korea will resume in the middle of May. The source also says that the United States and North Korea will apparently establish liaison offices in mid-May. [Note: Subsequently, the United States and North Korea do not establish the liaison offices.]
—Ch'oe Sang Yŏn, "4 Chahoedam-Yŏllaksamuso Puk-Mi Naedal Habŭijŏpkŭn/Puk, Sŏnshingnyangjiwŏnyogu Ch'ŏlhoe," Joongang Ilbo, 13 April 1997, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
Japan's Foreign Minister Ikeda Yukihiko reveals reports that North Korea has deployed the Nodong-1 intermeditate-range ballistic missile (IRBM). However, Ikeda says the reports have not been confirmed.
—"Kwan Weng Kin, "Tokyo Gets Reports of N. Korea Missiles Targeted at Japan," Straits Times (Singapore), 15 April 1997, p. 2, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Kyodo News Service, "Japan Obtains Unconfirmed Info on N. Korean Missiles," Japan Economic Newswire, 14 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Japan Sees North Korean Missile Redeployment," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 14 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Pukhan, 'Rodong-1' Missile Paech'i Iloesang Kukhoeso Chingboipsu Palkhyo," Chosun Ilbo, 14 April 1997, <http://www.chosun.com/>.
US State Department Spokesman Nicholas Burns says that the second round of US-North Korea missile talks will be held in New York 12-13 May 1997. Burns also says that the United States may respond on 15 May regarding North Korea's request at the United Nations for additional food aid.
—Sarah Jackson-Han, "US, North Korea Appear Ready to Strike a Deal," Agence France Presse, 15 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "U.S., North Korea Talks Scheduled," United Press International, 14 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "[Pukhan] Taumdal Mikukkwa Missile Hoedam Chaegaehapui," Chosun Ilbo, 15 April 1997; "Puk-Mi Naedal Missile Hoedam Kaech'oe Kukmububalp'yo: 12~13 Il New York'sŏ," Chosun Ilbo, 15 April 1997, <http://www.chosun.com/>.
A US government official says that North Korea "has either deployed or is about to deploy mobile-launched tactical ballistic missiles in quantities much larger than anticipated."
—Barbara Opall, "Japan Nears Commitment to BMD Buy," Defense News, vol. 12, no. 16, 21-27 April 1997, pp. 1, 82; "Puk, Idongshik Missile Susipki Paech'i'nŭngnyŏk," Chosun Ilbo, 22 April 1997, <http://www.chosun.com/>.
Ha'aretz reports that North Korea recently supplied Iran with a computer program enabling it to produce the 1,300km range Nodong missile.
—"North Korea Sold Missile Technology to Iran – Haaretz," Mideast Mirror, 24 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
Japanese Defense Chief Kyuma Fumio travels to South Korea to conduct security talks with South Korean Defense Minister Kim Dong Jin and Prime Minister Ko Kŏn. During the talks, the two countries discuss reports of recent deployment of Nodong missiles in North Korea.
—Kyodo News Service, "Japanese, S. Korean Defense Chiefs to Start Talks Monday," Japan Economic Newswire, 27 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
In an annual strategic report, the Pentagon states that, with the development of the Taepodong-2 missile, North Korea poses a missile threat to the United States, "but the likelihood of (the missile) being operational within five years is very low."
––Kohei Murayama, "Pentagon Report Eyes Continued Presence in E. Asia," Japan Economic Newswire, 30 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
The US State Department announces that North Korea has requested the postponement of missile talks scheduled for 12-13 May due to "technical reasons." North Korea reportedly has asked that the talks be delayed for several weeks. The talks were supposed to address North Korean missile sales to Iran and Syria, as well as reports that North Korea is preparing to deploy Nodong-1 missiles. North Korea currently has deployed three Nodong missiles on its east coast and is planning to deploy seven more.
—"N. Korea Calls Off Missile Talks Set for Next Week," Korea Times, 8 May 1997, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Yu Hye Ju, "Taemihyŏpsang Uwi'norin Kodojŏnsul/Puk Missile Hoedam Yŏn'giyoch'ŏng Pae'gyŏng," Segye Ilbo, 8 May 1997, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Na Yun Do, "Mibuk Missile Hoedam Tolyŏn Yŏn'gi/Puk Kisulchŏk Iyuro...Saedalch'o Yŏllildŭt," Taehan Maeil, 8 May 1997, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
Egypt asks North Korea to supply spare parts for the guidance and control systems used in Egypt's Scud missiles.
—Bill Gertz, "CIA Seeks Missile Data from Defector," Washington Times, 27 August 1997, p. A1.
North Korea has completed the deployment of seven Nodong missiles in the Pyongyang area and three Nodongs near its northeast coast.
—Kim Kyŏng Su, "Pukhan Missile Hyŏn'an: Chŏnmanggwa Taech'aek," Chugan Kukpang Nondan (The Weekly Defense Review), 9 August 1999, p. 4.
According to US military sources, North Korea has upgraded the warhead section of its Nodong missile. The missile's payload has been reduced from its original 1,000kg capacity to several hundred kilograms, making the missile less likely to break up on re-entry. The reduced payload will still allow the missile to carry chemical weapon payloads, but not a nuclear one. A Japanese defense official, however, cast doubt on the US information.
—Kyodo News Service, "N. Korea Improves Rodong Missile, U.S. Sources Say," Japan Economic Newswire, 7 May 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >; Kyodo News Service (Tokyo), 7 May 1997, in "Defense Source Doubts U.S. Reports on Nodong Missiles," FBIS-EAS-97-126, 6 May 1997, Document ID FTS19970506001302.
Yu Myŏng Hwan, director general of North America Affairs at the South Korean Foreign Ministry, says there is no firm evidence that North Korea has deployed Nodong missiles. Yu also says the United States is expected to propose that bilateral missile talks with North Korea be resumed next month.
—"U.S. to Discuss North Korean Missiles at Talks in June," Korea Herald, 10 May 1997, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
The Shankei Shimbun, citing US military sources, says that US analysts now estimate the range of the Nodong to be 1,300km rather than earlier estimates of 1,000km. The estimates are based upon satellite imagery from October 1996 that showed a fuel truck preparing a Nodong for launch. Furthermore, US reconnaissance satellites have detected three Nodongs deployed on North Korea's east coast, with seven more expected to be deployed soon.
—"North Korean Missile Capable of Hitting Tokyo: Report," Agence France Presse, 13 May 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >; "Nodong 1 Ho Sajonggori 1 Ch'on 3 Paek km," Chosun Ilbo, 13 May 1997, <http://www.chosun.com/>; No Chae Hyon, "Pukhan Nodong 1 Ho Missile Sajŏnggŏri 1,300 km," Joongang Ilbo, 14 May 1997, <http://www.joins.com/>; "N. Korea Missile Capable of Hitting Tokyo," Korea Times, 14 May 1997, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Kang Sŏng Bo, "Puk Nodong 1 Ho Sajŏnggŏri 1,300km/Ilchi 'Il Chŏn'yŏk Sajŏnggwŏn'," Kyunghyang Shinmun, 14 May 1997, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; No Jae Hyŏn, "Puk Nodong 1 Ho Missile/Sajŏnggŏri 1,300km," Joongang Ilbo,14 May 1997, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
Japan Defense Agency chief Kyuma Fumio says he is not sure where the 1,300km range figure for the Nodong—which was reported by the press on 13 May—originated. Kyuma says, "We tried our best to find out where this figure came from but absolutely nothing came up."
—Kyodo News Service, "Defense Chief Casts Doubt on N. Korean Missile Report," Japan Economic Newswire, 13 May 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
According to the Sankei Shimbun, Minister Counselor Han Sŏng Ryŏl of North Korea's Permanent Mission to the United Nations says that North Korea is discussing the resumption of missile talks with the United States. Han says the later half of June has been proposed, but that it will depend on the response of the United States and South Korea to North Korea's request for food aid in the Four Party Talks.
—"Puk, Missile Hoedam 6 Wŏlhasun Kaech'oe Hyŏp'ŭi," Chosun Ilbo, 16 May 1997, <http://www.chosun.com>.
Colonel-General Leonid Ivashov, chief of the Main Directorate for International Military Cooperation in the Russian Defense Ministry, says there is no evidence that North Korea has deployed its Nodong missile. General Ivashov does not believe that North Korea can produce a completely new missile that differs from the Scud. He acknowledges that countries might extend the range of missiles, such as Iraq did, but that he believes it is not possible to design and produce an entirely new missile, North Korea being no exception. Ivashov says there is no credible evidence to indicate that the Nodong can strike a target 1,300km away, and that these assumptions are designed to elicit Japanese and Taiwanese participation in US theater missile defense (TMD) plans.
—Alexander Kopnov, Vladimir Solntsev, and Mikhail Shevtsov, "Russia Has No Proof N. Korea Deploying Rodong-1 – General," ITAR-TASS, 18 May 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >; "Pukhan, Nodong-1 Ho Missile Paech'I Chunggo Ŏpsŏ: Rŏ Kukpangbu," Chosun Ilbo, 19 May 1997, <http://www.chosun.com/
>.
Colonel-General Leonid Ivashov, chief of the Main Directorate for International Military Cooperation in the Russian Defense Ministry, says on a Russian broadcast that the scope of technical cooperation in the military realm between Moscow and Pyongyang is small, but the cooperation is being maintained. Ivashov says that Russia is mainly supplying parts and accessories for weapons to North Korea. The same broadcast also quotes Russian Defense Minister Igor Rodionov as saying he acknowledges that North Korea cannot make a new improved missile [such as the Nodong] based on Soviet Scud missiles.
—"Pukhan-Russia Mugigŏrae Kwan'gye Yuji," Chosun Ilbo, 20 May 1997, <http://www.chosun.com/ >.
North Korea tests its new AG-1 anti-ship cruise missile. Pentagon sources describe the missile as using "unimpressive, old technology" from Russian Styx and Chinese Silkworm cruise missiles.
—James R. Asker, "Hyperbolic Missile," Aviation Week & Space Technology, 7 July 1997, p. 21.
The US State Department says North Korea has agreed to a second round of bilateral missile talks. The talks are to be held in New York 11-13 June 1997. The talks were originally scheduled for 12-13 May.
—Debra Lau, "N. Korea, U.S. Set to Resume Missile Talks in June," Daily Yomiuri, 29 May 1997, p. 5, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >; Park Tu Shik, "[Mi-Puk] Missile Hoedam Naedal 11 Il New York Sŏ Kaech'oe," Chosun Ilbo, 28 May 1997, <http://www.chosun.com>; "Mi-Puk Missile Hoedam 6 Wŏl 11-13 Il Kaech'oe," Chosun Ilbo, 28 May 1997, <http://www.chosun.com>.
A US government source says that the United States is prepared to ease sanctions on North Korea if it agrees to curb the development and export of missiles. The source claims that the US government would be prepared to allow US companies to invest in North Korea. In addition, the United States would support North Korea's participation in the Asian Development Bank and provide North Korea with low-interest loans to purchase food from US firms. The deal is to be discussed at missile proliferation talks scheduled for 11-13 June.
—"U.S. May Ease Sanctions on N. Korea for Peace," Jiji Press Ticker Service, 3 June 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
The United States and North Korea hold the second round of missile talks in New York. The United States is seeking a halt to North Korea's development and production of Nodong and Taepodong missiles, a halt to North Korean missile exports, and North Korean entry into the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR). North Korea repeats that missile production is a matter of its right to self-defense. The sides agree to hold a third round of talks in July or August in New York. The first round of talks was held 20-21 April 1996 in Berlin.
—Robert H. Reid, "U.S., North Korea Open Missile Talks after Stinger Deal with Seoul," Associated Press, 11 June 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Associated Press, "World News Briefs; U.S. and North Korea Begin Missile Talks," New York Times, 12 June 1997, p. A15, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "U.S., North Korea End Missile Talks with No Agreement," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 13 June 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Yonhap News Agency, 3 May 2001, in "ROK's Yonhap: Major Events in the N. Korean Missile Negotiations with U.S.," FBIS Document ID KPP20010503000091; Yonhap News Agency, 14 June 1997, in "U.S., DPRK Officials Produce No Agreements at Missile Talks," FBIS-TAC-97-164, 13 June 1997, Document ID FTS19970613001137; Yun Hŭi Yong, "[New York] Mi-Puk Missile Hoedam Sŏnggwa Ŏbsi Kkutna," Chosun Ilbo, 14 June 1997, <http://www.chosun.com>; "Mi-Puk, 7-8 Wŏlchung 3 Ch'a Missile Hyŏpsang," Chosun Ilbo, 14 June 1997, <http://www.chosun.com/>.
The United States suspends licensing on missile-related technology exports to North Korea for two years in response to reported missile technology exports by two North Korean firms, Ryong'aksan General Trading Company and Korea Pu'gang Trading Company. Sanctions preventing missile-related exports to North Korea were already in place, but the latest US sanctions are more stringent, including all items that could be used for "the development or production of electronics, space systems or equipment, and military aircraft." According to a State Department public notice released on 28 August, the United States "has determined that entities in North Korea have engaged in missile technology proliferation activities that require the imposition of sanctions."
—Kyodo News Service, "U.S. Adds Sanctions to N. Korean Missile Exports," Japan Economic Newswire, 29 August 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Mi Missile Such'ul Kwallyŏn/Mi, 2 Nyŏn'gan Chejaejoch'i," Munhwa Ilbo, 22 August 1997, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; "Mi, Puk Missile Kŏrae Chejae/Puk 2 Kaehoesa Such'ul Chŏkpal/2 Nyŏn'gan," Kukmin Ilbo, 22 August 1997, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
The United States announces that it will grant political asylum to two North Korean defectors, Chang Sŭng Gil, ambassador to Egypt, and his brother Chang Sŭng Ho, a trade envoy in France. Chang Sŭng Gil, the first North Korean ambassador to defect, is expected to provide the United States with information pertaining to North Korean missile sales to Egypt, Iran, and Syria. According to reports, Chang walked into the US Embassy in Cairo on 22 August and asked for asylum.
—Steven Lee Myers, "Defecting Envoy from North Korea to Get U.S. Asylum," New York Times, 27 August 1997, p. A1, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "North Korean Ambassador to Egypt Defects," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 25 August 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Reuters, "N. Korea Envoy to Egypt Defects to West – Seoul But Pyongyang Denies Diplomat Has Disappeared," Toronto Star, 26 August 1997, p. A21, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "'Mangmyŏnghŏyong' Pŏnbokpae'gyŏng (Miro Kan Puk Taesa)," Kyunghyang Shinmun, 29 August 1997, p. 6, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
A US official announces that North Korea has exported 370 Scud missiles to Arab countries and is capable of producing 150 Scuds per year.
—Barry Schweid, "North Korean Ambassador, Trade Official Defect, Given Asylum in United States," Associated Press, 26 August 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
North Korea cancels missiles talks with the United States after the United States refuses to return two defectors, one of whom is expected to provide information pertaining to North Korean missile sales to Egypt, Iran, and Syria.
—Steven Lee Meyers, "North Koreans Quit Arms Talks over Defections," New York Times, 28 August 1997, p. A1, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >; R. Jeffrey Smith, "North Koreans Cancel U.S. Talks: Protesting Diplomats' Defection, Pyongyang Recalls Team on Missile Issues," Washington Post, 28 August 1997, p. A30, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >; Norman Kempster, "U.S. Accepts 2 Defecting N. Korean Diplomats," Los Angeles Times, 27 August 1997, p. A4, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >; US Grants Asylum to Senior North Korean Defectors," Agence France Presse, 27 August 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >; "North Korea Pulls Out of Missile Talks with US," Agence France Presse, 27 August 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/ >; Jennifer Hewett and Reuter, "N. Korea Demands Return of Defectors," The Age (Melbourne), 28 August 1997, p. 15, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Foreign Ministry Spokesman Interviewed," Korean Central News Agency, 27 August 1997, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>.
During a visit to South Korea, Israeli Prime Minster Benjamin Netanyahu discusses North Korea's alleged missile sales to Iran.
—Jay Bushinsky, "PM: Korean DMZ Unfeasible for Golan," Jerusalem Post, 29 August 1997, p. 22.
North Korea deploys Nodong missiles to Shin'o-ri, Unjŏn-kun, North P'yŏng'an Province.
—Kim Yŏn Kwang, "'Puk Taepodong Missile Haekt'andu T'apchaehal Sudo'/Ch'ŏn Yong T'aek Kukpang Palg'hyŏ," Chosun Ilbo, 4 September 1998, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
According to an Israeli intelligence report, Iran's Shehab-3 and Shehab-4 ballistic missile programs have benefited from North Korea's assistance. Iran, according to the report, has received "at least a dozen" Nodong missiles from North Korea. The Shehab-4 reportedly has a range of 2,000km with a 1,000kg payload, and some believe it is based on the Russian SS-4.
—"Russia-Iran Ties Remain Issue at Gore-Chernomyrdin Meeting," Arms Control Today, September 1997, p. 29.
North Korea denies allegations made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a visit to South Korea about North Korea's missile exports to the Middle East. A Foreign Ministry spokesman condemns the allegations as "a foolish effort to justify the military tie-up between Israel and South Korea."
—"DPRK Foreign Ministry Spokesman on Israeli Prime Minister's Tour of South Korea," Korean Central News Agency, 6 September 1997, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; Korean Central News Agency, 6 September 1997, in "North Korea Rejects South's, Israeli Allegation of Arms Sale to Middle East," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 8 September 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Bob Einhorn claims that North Korea has exported missile technology to several countries in exchange for oil and hard currency. According to Einhorn, North Korea has earned close to $1 billion for their missile exports over the past decade and has become the world's largest missile exporter. Einhorn also claims that North Korea's 1,300km range Nodong missile is already "in the advanced stage" of development.
—Kyodo News Service, "N. Korea Earned 1 Bil Dlrs in Missile Exports," Japan Economic Newswire, 20 September 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
Japanese media report that US reconnaissance satellites have detected the deployment of a North Korean Nodong ballistic missile for a possible test.
—Lee Hyŏk Chae, "Puk Nodong 1 Ho Missile Shiljŏnbaech'i Hwag'in," Chosun Ilbo, 22 September 1997, <http://www.chosun.com>.
North Korea begins deploying military units with equipment designed to transport the Nodong missile. According to US Pacific Command Admiral, Joseph Prueher, the preparations indicate deployment, training exercises, or exercises for deception. According to Prueher, no missiles have been sighted.
—Bill Gertz, "North Korea Cited for Missile Activity: Preparation, Deception Are Possible," Washington Times, 27 September 1997, p. A3; "[Mi T'aep'yŏngyang Saryŏnggwan] 'Puk Nodong Missile Hullyŏn Shilchŏnbaech'i'nŭn Anhandŭt," Chosun Ilbo, 27 September 1997, <http://www.chousn.com/>.
Iran successfully test-launches the Shehab-2, which has a range of about 1,000km. Western intelligence officials believe that the Shehab-2 was developed with North Korean assistance.
––Con Coughlin, "Iran Missile Test Launch Puts Israel within Range," Sunday Telegraph, 2 November 1997, p. 29.
US and Israeli intelligence sources claim that Iran is making significant progress on the Shehab-3, a version of the North Korean Nodong, which has a range of 1,300km.
US State Department Spokesman James Rubin issues a statement calling for North Korea to return to missile talks with the United States at an early date.
Intelligence sources begin monitoring North Korean flights to Pakistan. There are about three flights a month until January, when the number of flights increased three-fold. The aircraft were mostly Il-76 transports, and they carried technical exports, including telemetry crews in February and March 1998. The increase in the number of flights followed the visit of the North Korean chief of staff and the head of the strategic forces, which leads analysts to believe that Pakistan and North Korea have entered into an agreement for North Korean access to Pakistan's range facilities in exchange for military technology.
—"Pakistan's Missile 'Was a Nodong'," Jane's Missiles & Rockets, vol. 2, no. 5, May 1998, pp. 1-2.
China and North Korea send a joint team of technicians to Iran to work on the final stages of the latter's ballistic missile program. The program involves more than 100 Chinese and North Korean technicians with the goal of giving Iran the indigenous capability to build ballistic missiles by the middle of 1998. The technicians are working to extend the range of the Nodong missile beyond 1,600km.
—Con Coughlin, "China, N. Korea Send Experts to Hone Iran's Long-Range Missiles," Washington Times, 23 November 1997, pp. 1, 5.
The US Department of Defense releases "Proliferation: Threat and Response 1997." The report says North Korea has a capacity to produce four-eight Scud-B and/or Scud-C missiles per month, and that Pyongyang exports missiles and missile technology, principally to the Middle East and South Asia, to earn hard currency. North Korea has hundreds of Scud missiles in its inventory, and has developed the Nodong, "based on Scud technology." The Taepodong-1 and Taepodong-2 are two-stage missiles in the early stage of development, but these missiles "represent significant technical departure from the proven Scud designs." The ranges of the two missiles is estimated to be over 1,500km and 4,000-6,000km, respectively. Furthermore, the report says, "North Korea has little experience flight testing its missiles and has no experience testing multistage ballistic missiles or other related technologies. This lack of test experience could complicate North Korea's ability to evaluate, improve, or repair flaws in its missile designs."
—US Department of Defense, "Proliferation: Threat and Response 1997," 25 November 1997, <http://www.defenselink.mil/>.
A North Korean delegation led by Vice Foreign Minister Kim Kye Kwan meets with a US delegation headed by Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Charles Kartman at the State Department. During the six-hour meeting, various topics are discussed, including North Korea's missile development and past sales to Iran and Syria. This meeting marks the first time a senior North Korean official has held talks at the State Department.
—George Gedda, "U.S., North Korea Hold Talks," Associated Press, 27 November 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
A senior official in Japan's Defense Agency says Japan has not yet confirmed whether North Korea has completed development of the Nodong-1 ballistic missile.
—"N. Korea Missile Completion Not Confirmed: Defense Official," Jiji Press Ticker Service, 27 November 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
A "source close to the US military" says North Korea has recently completed several launch sites for the Nodong-1. The source says this indicates that development of the Nodong-1 is complete.
—"Rodong 1 Launch Bases Completed: U.S. Source," Jiji Press Ticker Service, 3 December 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
US Secretary of Defense William Cohen says that North Korea has completed development of the Nodong missile. However, Cohen says it is not clear whether North Korea is preparing to deploy or has already deployed the Nodong.
—Kohei Murayama, "N. Korea Completes Rodong Missiles, Cohen Says," Japan Economic Newswire, 10 December 1997, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
US federal agents raid the Alexandria, Virginia office of Vector Microwave Research Corporation. Vector had worked on secret US government contracts, but, apparently, the firm allegedly engaged in some illegal deals. Custom agents later investigate Vector's attempt to acquire North Korean ballistic missiles. According to the Washington Post, Vector "arranged for a South Korean consultant to approach a Seoul company to broker a $33 million deal to buy four missiles and a launcher from Pyongyang." They also had a US consultant acquire a fake "end-user certificate" to show that the missiles were going to Venezuela via Pakistan. The company had indirect contacts with North Koreans in Beijing, but any transaction would have been illegal under US law. The firm never acquired the missiles.
—John Mintz, "Secret Deals, Awkward Bargain; U.S. Probes Firm's Covert Acquisition of Arms for CIA, DIA," Washington Post, 30 December 1998, p. A1. According to Japan Defense Agency sources, North Korea produces 10 Nodong-1 missiles. [Note: See entries for 1997 and 2 January 1999.]
—"Report: North Korea Deploying Medium-Range Missiles," Associated Press, 2 January 1999, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Kyodo News Service, 2 January 1999, in "North Korea Deploying, Exporting Medium-Range Missiles – Japanese Report," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 2 January 1999, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
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Updated May 2003 |
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