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.
North Korea conducts three or four static engine tests for its Taepodong missile at the Musudan-ri missile facility. These tests follow North Korea's announcement of a flight-test moratorium in September 1999. [Note: This article is not clear whether this is a test for the Paektusan-1/Taepodong-1 or Taepodong-2, but it is probably for the latter.]
—Kim Min Sŏk and Lee Yŏng Chong, "Puk Missile Shilhŏm Chaegae...Engine Yŏnsojinghu P'och'ak," Joongang Ilbo, 24 February 2000, <http://www.joins.com>.
North Korea moves FROG rockets to a FROG base in the southwestern part of North Korea.
—Kang Ho Shik, "Puk Scud Missile Kiji Chŭngsŏl," Kyunghyang Shinmun, 5 March 2001, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
Space Imaging, a US firm, releases satellite imagery of the Musudan-ri test facility on CNN television. The one-meter resolution photos, which were taken on 1 November 1999 by the firm's Ikonos satellite, are posted a few days later on the Federation of American Scientists' website.
—Cable News Network, CNN Live Event/Special, 3 January 2000, in "Millennium 2000: CEO of Space Imaging Discusses Three-Dimensional Aerial Photographs," Transcript # 00010354V54, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Ryuichi Otsuka, "N. Korean Missile Base Detailed U.S. Firm Gives Public Clear View of Taepodong Launch Site," Daily Yomiuri, 9 January 2000, p. 1, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; William J. Broad, "Spy Photos of Korea Missile Site Bring Dispute," New York Times, 11 January 2000, p. A8, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Michael Evans, "Spy Pictures Show Korea's Empty Threat," The Times (London), 12 January 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Joseph C. Anselmo, "Commercial Images Detail North Korean Missile Site," Aviation Week & Space Technology, vol. 152, no. 3, 17 January 2000, p. 414, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
The Washington Times quotes a US House national security aide as saying that North Korea and China have close cooperation on ballistic missiles and that China probably has provided North Korea with warhead data that could be used to develop small nuclear warheads.
—Bill Gertz, "China Breaks Vow, Sends N. Korea Missile Materials," Washington Times, 6 January 2000, p. 1.
North Korea is reconsidering its declared moratorium on flight-testing of missiles. A spokesman for the North Korean Foreign Ministry says that the US missile interceptor test in the Pacific on 18 January 2000 has compelled North Korea to take its moratorium on missile flight-tests into serious consideration. The spokesman further says, "It is one more grave challenge to the magnanimity and good faith shown by the DPRK in its efforts to settle outstanding issues through negotiations. We will make an appropriate decision."
—"DPRK FM Spokesman on U.S. Missile Interceptor Test," Korean Central News Agency, 22 January 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; "Missile Palsarimshijungjimunjaerŭl Koryŏhaji Anhŭlsu Ŏptta," Korean Central News Agency, 22 January 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; "North Korea Reconsiders Missile Test Moratorium after US Firings," Agence France Presse, 23 January 2000.
US State Department Spokesman James Rubin announces in Moscow that North Korea has agreed to send a high-level delegation to the United States in March for talks on the North Korean missile program. The announcement comes at the end of seven days of meetings in Berlin between the United States and North Korea. Rubin says that the Clinton administration's hope is that the visit in March would lead to a permanent agreement under which North Korea would agree to stop flight-tests of its ballistic missiles. Rubin further states that North Korea has officially accepted the invitation; however, the agenda and leader of the North Korean delegation for the visit is yet to be determined.
—Jane Perlez, "US-North Korea Talks on Missile Program Set for March," New York Times, 31 January 2000.
According to scholar James Cotton, US specialists maintain that North Korea is developing a longer-range version of the Taepodong missile, which could strike targets in the continental United States and much of Asia by 2003. North Korea has exported about 400 Scud type missiles to Iran, Syria, and Pakistan. Cotton asserts that at present, despite having a missile development program, North Korea does not have the capability to arm its missiles with nuclear warheads.
—James Cotton, "North Korea Nuclear and Missile Nonproliferation and Regional Security," Australia and Security Cooperation in the Asia Pacific (AUS-CSCAP) Newsletter No. 9, February 2000, <http://aus-cscap.anu.edu.au>.
According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov and his North Korean counterpart, Paek Nam Sun, discussed missile cooperation during Ivanov's visit to North Korea. KCNA reported that this move comes in response to increasing Japanese and US efforts to set up a theater missile defense (TMD) system. William Schneider, a US expert on international security, said that within five years North Korea, Iran, Russia, and China will possess a nuclear potential sufficient to inflict major destruction on the United States, even if their systems are inferior to US systems in accuracy and capability. Russia and North Korea signed a new friendship pact requiring each country not to support any state that attacks the other.
—"North Korea and Russia to Cooperate on Missiles," Middle East Newsline, 14 February 2000, <http://www.menewsline.com/>.
CIA Director George Tenet testifies before the US Senate Intelligence Committee that North Korea could threaten US cities with ballistic missiles within 15 years. Tenet says that North Korea could test the Taepodong-2 this year, and that North Korea might be able to arm it with nuclear warheads. Tenet also says that Nodong missile sales are changing the strategic balance in the Middle East and Asia. (Note: get English sources).
—Kim Chong U, "Haeg'unban Kanŭnghan Puk Taepodong 2 Ho Yŏnnae Shihŏmbalsa," Joongang Ilbo, 4 February 2000, <http://www.joins.com/>.
South Korean Foreign Minister Lee Jŏng Bin says that North Korea has accepted proposals from the United States to cease development of ballistic missiles and nuclear weapons and to renounce terrorism in return for improved relations with the United States. However, North Korea has demanded direct food aid from the United States and the removal of North Korea from a list of states known to sponsor terrorism.
—"North Korea Accepts US Proposal to Halt Missile Program: South Korea," Agence France Presse, 8 February 2000.
Robert Walpole, national intelligence officer for strategic and nuclear programs, tells Congress that North Korea continues to supply ballistic missile components and technology to other hostile countries. The official says that North Korea has been so active lately that it has "supplanted Russia as the major supplier of technical know-how and equipment for missile programs." However, the official would not confirm a recent report in the Washington Times that North Korea transferred twelve missile engines to Iran in November 1999. The official also noted that North Korea was continuing the development of its own ballistic missiles despite a pledge to halt the program. According to the Washington Times, Walpole says, "Those engines are critical to the Taepodong program, and they would be critical to the Shehab-3 program and any extensions of the Shehab-3 program."
—Tom Raum, "CIA Official Suggests North Korea Continuing Nuclear Weapons Program," Associated Press, 9 February 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Bill Gertz, "'Critical' N. Korea Missile Parts Seen Aiding Iran's Program," Washington Times, 10 February 2000, p. A3.
According to Izvestia, North Korea had planned to launch a missile on 16 February 2000 to celebrate Kim Jong Il's birthday but cancels the launch at the last minute. The missile was to be launched from Musudan-ri, North Hamgyŏng Province. During his recent visit to discuss a Treaty of Friendship between Russia and North Korea, Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov insisted that North Korea not break its current flight-test moratorium. North Korea had announced that it could break the moratorium because the United States had tested missile interceptor systems.
—"Ivanov Seen Responsible for DPRK Missile Non-Launch," Izvestia (Moscow), FBIS Document CEP2000217000222, 17 February 2000; "Puk Kim Jong Il Saeng'ilddae Missile Ssoryŏhaetta," Hankook Ilbo, 18 February 2000, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
The Sankei Shimbun reports that North Korea and Iran are jointly developing a new missile based on China's C-802 cruise missile. The report claims that Iran had acquired about 125 C-802 cruise missiles from China in the mid-1990s, but that China suspended sales to Iran after the United States demanded a halt to the sales in 1996. Iran reportedly sent some of the C-802s to North Korea in April or May 1999.
—Kyodo News Service, "N. Korea, Iran Jointly Developing Missile: Newspaper," Japan Economic Newswire, 16 February 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "N. Korea, Iran Jointly Develop Missile: Report," Korea Times, 17 February 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Kyodo News Service, 17 Feb 2000, in "Sankei Shimbun: DPRK, Iran Jointly Developing Missile," FBIS Document ID JPP20000217000006; Chŏn Hyŏn Il, "Puk-Iran, Chungje Sunhang Missile Kongdong Kaeryang Yŏn'gye," Segye Ilbo, 18 February 2000, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Shim Kyu Sŏn, "Puk-Iran Missile Kongdonggaebal Ch'ujin," Donga Ilbo, 18 February 2000, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
Jane's Defence Weekly reports that sources in US and Israeli intelligence agencies believe that Egyptian firms are sending missile technologies from the United States and other Western countries to North Korea.
—Steve Rodan, "Israel, USA Claim Egyptian Missile Links with N. Korea," Jane's Defence Weekly, vol. 33, no. 8, 23 February 2000.
South Korean military sources say that North Korea has recently formed four to six missile launch battalions and is likely to develop its Taepodong ballistic missiles to a range of 2,000-2,500km within the year 2000. However, North Korea is not going to replace its currently deployed Nodong missiles with the Taepodong. After establishing a missile division in 1999, North Korea now operates independent missile launch and technology battalions. These battalions are stationed at underground missile bases or hangars that North Korea built from the mid-1980s to 1990s. Furthermore, North Korea has modified large trucks it bought from Japan into transporter erector launchers (TELs), and a majority of these TELs have been placed along the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).
—Yonhap News Agency, 27 February 2000, in "ROK 'Source' Says DPRK Operates Missile Launch Battalions," FBIS Document KPP20000227000010; Yonhap News Agency, 27 February 2000, in "North Korea Reportedly Operates Missile Launch Battalions," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 27 February 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
Japan's Foreign Ministry reports in the 2000 Diplomatic Blue Book, an annual report, that Japan sees it highly likely that North Korea has completed the deployment of medium-range Nodong missiles, and believes North Korea is likely working to develop long-range missiles. The ministry said that against this backdrop, Japan would keep intact its balanced policy of dialogue and deterrence in dealing with North Korea, while sustaining its efforts to normalize ties with Pyongyang. The government report said, "There is believed to be no change in the situation that the Korean Workers Party of Kim Jong Il has the overall grip on power in politics." Japan held talks with North Korea to establish diplomatic ties in April 2000; both sides are to meet again in Tokyo on 23 May 2000.
—Kyodo News Service, "Japan Sees North Korea Making Longer-Range Missiles," Japan Economic Newswire, 9 May 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 May 2000, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; "North's Long-Range Missiles in Combat Positions, Tokyo Warns," South China Morning Post, 10 May 2000, <http://www.scmp.com>; "Japan's North Korean Missiles Likely," BBC News, 9 May 2000, <http://news2.thls.bbc.co.uk>.
The United States and North Korea hold meetings in New York to prepare for the upcoming visit to Washington by top North Korean officials. The North Korean delegation, led by Vice Foreign Minister Kim Gye Gwan, meets with US special envoy to North Korea, Charles Kartman, to discuss increased political recognition and economic assistance given to North Korea in return for concessions on its missile program. On the second day of the talks, Kartman is joined by Michael Sheham, US coordinator for counter-terrorism, who discusses the possibility of removing North Korea from the United State's list of state sponsors of terrorism.
—Sharon Behn, "US, North Korea Set for Second Day of Negotiations on Landmark Visit," Agence France Presse, 9 March 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
South Korean President Kim Dae Jung delivers his "Berlin Declaration," which proposes governmental talks between the two Koreas and aims to increase inter-Korean exchanges.
—"S. Korea's Kim Set to Work Directly with North," United Press International, 10 March 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "South Korean President Kim Dae-jung Calls for Talks with North Korea," Agence France Presse, 9 March 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Kim Ji-ho, "'Berlin Declaration' Shows Seoul's Will, Confidence in Inter-Korea Initiative," Korea Herald, 10 March 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Kim Min Bae, "Kim Taet'ongnyŏng 'Berlin Sŏn'ŏn' 4 Kaehang Palp'yo," Chosun Ilbo, 10 March 2000, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.com/>; Kim Min Bae, "Kim Taet'ongnyŏng 'Berlin Sŏn'ŏn' Pukchiwŏn, Chŏngbuga Chikchŏp Nasŏnda," Chosun Ilbo, 10 March 2000, p. 3, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.com/>.
Bilateral talks between the United States and North Korea break off without any agreement. The talks were intended to lay the groundwork for a visit to the United States by a top-level North Korean official. Although the talks failed, both sides are still hopeful that an agreement could be reached. Both sides also say that the talks will continue at an undetermined later date.
—"US, North Korea Talks End without Agreement," Agence France Presse, 16 March 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
The United States, South Korea, and Japan jointly urge North Korea to accept South Korean President Kim Dae Jung's recent call for greater inter-Korean cooperation. The three sides hope that North Korea would respond positively to President Kim's Berlin declaration for peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula issued on 9 March. The joint statement issued by the three allies in Tokyo expresses hope that the United States and North Korea would improve relations through dialogue, including talks on a visit by a high-level North Korean official, as well as talks on North Korea's missile and nuclear programs.
—"North Korea Pressed by South Korea's Allies to Accept Kim Initiative," Agence France Presse, 30 March 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
The United States imposes sanctions against North Korea's Ch'anggwang Shinyong Company for selling missile technology to Syria.
—Bill Gertz, "China, N. Korea Hit With Sanctions," Washington Times, 28 June 2001, p. 1.
The United States and North Korea hold bilateral talks in Rome. The talks cover a wide range of issues, and the two sides agree to hold bilateral missile talks in the future.
—"US-N. Korea Delegations Make Progress in Rome Talks: US State Dept," Agence France Presse, 30 May 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "US-N. Korean Talks in Rome Shrouded in Secrecy," Agence France Presse, 23 May 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "US, NK to Resume Bilateral Talks in Rome Wednesday," Korea Times, 24 May 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Sharon Behn, "US, N. Korean Talks in Rome to Focus on Missile Question, High-Level Visit," Agence France Presse, 23 May 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Kyodo News Service, "US, N. Korea Agreee on More Talks on N. Korea Missile Program," Japan Economic Newswire, 30 May 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
South Korean Minister of Unification Im Dong Wŏn pays a secret visit to Pyongyang to hold talks with Kim Jong Il. The talks last for four hours, and Im notes that Kim has a sense of humor and is respectful towards his elders. He also believes that Kim Jong Il is a much stronger leader than his father, and that he is a very good listener. According to Im, Kim directly took notes during the meeting, as if he were a student in class. [Note: Im's observations are part of a report submitted to President Kim Dae Jung upon Im's return to Seoul, which are cited in Don Oberdorfer's revised edition of The Two Koreas. The revised edition is scheduled for release in December 2001.]
—Ch'oe Wŏn Ki, "Don Oberdorfer 'Tugaeŭi Korea' Kaejŏngp'an/'Im Dong Wŏnssi Kŭkpi Pangbuk," Joongang Ilbo, 5 December 2001, p. 10, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; "Spy Agency Chief Secretly Visited Pyongyang Prior to Summit," Korea Herald, 20 June 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
Western intelligence sources say North Korea is helping Iraq in its medium-range missile and nuclear weapons programs. Sources said Iraq is trying to acquire its pre-1991 strategic weapons capability by increasing its oil revenue through enhanced exports. Former UN chief arms inspector Richard Butler said that Iraqi weaponization would continue to pose a threat to the United States and Israel. US experts say that, despite repeated appeals, North Korea has also continued to sell intermediate and long-range missiles such as the Nodong and Taepodong-1 (Paektusan-1) to Iran, Syria, and Libya. Sources say that commercial contacts are mostly used to hide the weapons transactions.
—"Iraq, N. Korea Believed Cooperating on Missiles, WMD," Middle East Newsline, vol. 2, no. 218, 8 June 2000, <http://www.menewsline.com/>.
A Russian government source reveals that during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to North Korea on 19 July 2000, North Korea is expected to declare it has no plans to attack the United States with missiles in the foreseeable future, and that it does not have the technical capability to develop an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). The source also told Japan's Kyodo News that North Korea would possibly discuss the missile issue at the Russia-North Korea summit. The report said that contrary to the US belief that North Korea could develop an ICBM by 2005, Russian Defense Minister Igor Sergeyev says North Korea would need a minimum of 15 years.
—Kyodo News Service, "LEAD: N. Korea to Declare It Will Not Attack U.S.: Report," Japan Economic Newswire, 14 June 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
US intelligence officials, quoting a National Security Agency (NSA) report of 8 June 2000, say that Russia and Uzbekistan are cooperating on the sale of missile parts to North Korea. The parts being sold include a special aluminum alloy, laser gyroscopes used in missile guidance, and connectors and relays used in missile electronics, the officials say. The report also says that Russia has been collaborating with a North Korean missile company in sending missile components to Yemen. According to officials, the gyroscopes for the North Korean Scud missiles were first sold to North Korea's Ch'anggwang Shinyong Company in Kazakhstan and then resold to Yemen. The United States has placed an export ban on the firm since April 2000 for selling Scud missiles to Iran.
—Bill Gertz, "Russia Sells Missile Technology to North Korea," Washington Times, 30 June 2000, p. A1.
A North Korean Foreign Ministry spokesman says the United States is wrong in citing the threat from North Korea as justification for a proposed national missile defense (NMD) system. The spokesman accuses the United States of insincerity in implementing the 1994 Geneva Agreed Framework, under which North Korea has suspended its suspected nuclear program. He says the United States is behind schedule on its commitment to lift economic sanctions and supply two light-water nuclear reactors. In Washington, a senior US State Department official says that discussions with North Korea on its missile program are expected to start soon, and also the United States would be ready to lift economic sanctions against North Korea by the end of June 2000.
—"Pyongyang Ups the Ante ahead of Missile Talks with Washington," Agence France Presse, 10 June 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
According to South Korean government spokesman Park Chun Yŏng, President Kim Dae Jung, in a telephone conversation with US President Bill Clinton, says that he comprehensively discussed the North Korean weapons development program with North Korean leader Kim Jong Il during their summit in Pyongyang. Park said, "President Kim told President Clinton that he strongly urged the North Korean leader to successfully conclude negotiations with the US on North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, and that leaving these weapon issues unsettled could impede regional peace and cooperation." Furthermore, President Kim also stressed the importance of North Korea abiding by the 1991 inter-Korean nuclear nonproliferation accord, and the 1994 US-North Korea Agreed Framework.
—"President Says He Urged N.K. Leader to Resolve Nuclear, Missile Issues with U.S. at Summit Talks," Korea Herald, 17 June 2000, <http://www.koreaherald.co.kr/>.
The United States eases economic sanctions against North Korea. The measures are said to be "the final phase of what President Clinton announced last September 17." Some restrictions will remain in place due to North Korea's inclusion on a list of terrorist-supporting states.
—James Gerstenzang, "U.S. Lifts Some Sanctions against N. Korea, Stops Calling It 'Rogue'," Los Angeles Times, 20 June 2000, p. A6, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; John Burton and Stephen Fidler, "US Eases Sanctions against Pyongyang," Financial Times, 20 June 2000, p. 14, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Ben Barber, "White House Ends Embargo on Trade with North Korea; Action Follows Pyongyang Summit," Washington Times, 20 June 2000, p. A1, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Shin Yong-bae, "U.S. Lifting of Sanctions Expected to Boost Mood of Détente on Peninsula," Korea Herald, 20 June 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "US Sanction Lifting Toward NK Takes Effect," Korea Times, 20 June 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
Japan's Sankei Shimbun reports that 15 North Koreans, including 10 engineers, will return to Pyongyang from Pakistan in a few days. The North Koreans are reported to have been helping Pakistan with its missile development program.
—"N. Korean Missile Experts to Return Home from Pakistan: Report," Agence France Presse, 19 June 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
Pakistan denies reports that say Pakistan has received help for its missile program from North Korea. The Sankei Shimbun reported on 19 June 2000 that 15 North Korean personnel, including 10 engineers, would return to Pyongyang soon from Pakistan.
—"News From Our World Resources: 'No Korean Help' in Missile Programmes," Gulf News, 21 June 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Pakistan Denies Using N. Koreans on Missile Programme," Agence France Presse, 20 June 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
A senior US State Department official says that following a North Korean announcement to continue its moratorium on missile testing, the United States will soon resume negotiations with North Korea on the missile issue. The official says a visit to the United States by a North Korean high-level delegation and talks on reaffirmation of North Korea's pledge to halt nuclear weapons will also be announced soon. If the talks succeed, missile-related shipments to Iran, Pakistan, and possibly other nations could end. Flight-testing, one element of North Korea's missile development program, and other unresolved issues such as the suspended North Korean nuclear program, will be discussed during the talks, the official added. Furthermore, the official said that despite a similar pledge in September 1999, there were no indications of North Korea's suspending the development of its Taepodong-2 missile.
— Jane Perlez, "North Korea's Missile Pledge Paves the Way for New Talks," New York Times, 22 June 2000; "U.S. to Announce Missile Talks with North Korea," Associated Press, 22 June 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Matthew Lee, "US Expects Resumption of Missile Talks with N. Korea Shortly: Official," Agence France Presse, 22 June 2000, Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "North Korea Promises to Halt Missile Tests," Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 21 June 2000; Donga Ilbo (Seoul), 3 May 2001, in "ROK Daily Sees DPRK Decision To Freeze Missile launch as Gesture to US," FBIS Document ID KPP20010503000123.
The US government announces that bilateral missile talks with North Korea will resume 10-12 July after a year and four months. During the fourth round of talks held in March 1999 in Pyongyang, North Korea said it could not give up missile development unless the United States provided $1 billion per year in compensation for three years. However, in September 1999, North Korea promised to halt all flight-tests as long as the two sides remain engaged in negotiations.
—Kim Chin, "Pukhan-Mig'uk Missile Hoedam 7 Wŏl 10 Il Chaegae," Joongang Ilbo, 30 June 2000, <http://www.joins.com>.
President Bill Clinton warns that despite signs of reconciliation that emerged from the June 2000 inter-Korean summit, North Korea's weapons program remains a threat to the United States.
—"Russia Selling Missile Technology to North Korea: Report," Agence France Presse, 30 June 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
According to the CIA, North Korea obtains raw materials and components for ballistic missiles from "various foreign sources, especially through North Korean firms based in China." Chinese firms are also said to provide "dual-use missile-related items, raw materials, and/or assistance to North Korea. As a supplier, North Korea is said to provide "significant ballistic missile-related equipment, components, materials, and technical expertise to countries in the Middle East, South Asia, and North Africa." North Korea is said to "maintain a missile relationship" with Egypt, and provide assistance and equipment for Syria's liquid-propellant missile program. North Korea is also reportedly a supplier of "missile-related equipment, materials, technology, and expertise to Libya and Iran."
—"Unclassified Report to Congress on the Acquisition of Technology Relating to Weapons of Mass Destruction and Advanced Conventional Munitions, 1 July Through 31 December 2000," CIA, 7 September 2001, <http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/bian/bian_sep_2001.htm#5>; "Russia, N. Korea, China Give Iran Missile Aid-CIA," Joongang Ilbo, 11 September 2001, <http://english.joins.com/>; Bill Gertz, "CIA Uncovers Missile moves by China," Washington Times, 8 September 2001, <http://www.washtimes.com/>; "CIA Says Iran Got New Missile Aid," Washington Post, 8 September 2001, p. 9.
North Korea delivers the first of 50 Nodong missiles and seven launchers to Libya. The rest of the missiles will be delivered over a two-year period, and North Korea will construct the infrastructure to maintain and store the missiles, and train Libyan personnel in missile technology for five years. According to Middle East Newsline, the contract for the missiles is signed with North Korea's state-owned Ch'ŏngch'ŏn'gang Corporation.
—Con Coughlin, "Missile Deal Puts Israel in Gaddafi Sights," Sunday Telegraph, Issue 1948, 24 September 2000, <http://www.telegraph.co.uk/>; "Puk Nodong Missile Libya Sŏ Suip," Joongang Ilbo, 25 September 2000, <http://www.joins.com/>; "Libya Acquires No-Dong Missiles from N. Korea," Middle East Newsline, vol. 2, no. 370, 24 September 2000, <http://www.menewsline.com/>; Douglas Davis, "Report: Libyan Missiles Can Hit Israel," Jerusalem Post, 25 September 2000, p. 5, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
The United States and North Korea hold the fifth round of bilateral missile talks in Kuala Lumpur. Chang Ch'ang Ch'ŏn, North Korea's Director-General for US Affairs, says the talks are focused on the suspension of North Korea's missile exports. Chang says that during the negotiations the North Korea delegation "clarified that we could continue our discussions on the condition the US side is willing to compensate for the political and economic losses we would incur if we suspend our missile exports. Our position was the US should provide compensation of $1 billion in cash." US sources say that Washington's ultimate goal is to induce North Korea to join the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR). Robert Einhorn, Assistant Secretary of State and the chief US negotiator, says the talks are "substantive and candid" and he describes the North Korean side as "very professional and serious-minded." Einhorn says the two sides hope to meet "within the next few months" and is optimistic that the "positively evolving environment" would lead to firm progress.
—"USDS Einhorn Press Conference on N. Korea Missile Talks," Asia Pulse, 13 July 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Ranjan Roy, "U.S., North Korea Near Wrap-Up of Missile Talks," Associated Press, 12 July 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "North Korea Asks for US1 Billion to halt Missile Sales," Channel NewsAsia, 12 July 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "U.S. Rejects North Korea's Billion Dollar Missile Demand," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 12 July 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Tim Johnson, "LEAD: U.S., N. Korea End Missile Export Compensation Talks," Japan Economic Newswire, 12 July 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Puk-Mi Missile Hoedam Kyŏllyŏl," Taehan Maeil, 13 July 2000, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr/>; "Pukhan-Miguk Missile Hoedam Kyŏllyŏl," Joongang Ilbo, 13 July 2000, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr/>; "Puk-Mi Missile Hoedam Kyŏllyŏl," Segye Ilbo, 13 July 2000, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr/>.
After a stalemate in the US-North Korea missile talks in Kuala Lumpur, North Korea says it would continue its missile development program. Chang Ch'ang Ch'ŏn, Director-General for US Affairs, said North Korea's missile program is part of its right to self-defense. "However, we will continue our discussions on the condition that the US gives compensation for our economic and political losses in case of suspension," Chang said.
—"North Korea Vows to Continue Missile Program," New York Times, 13 July 2000, <http://www.nytimes.com/>.
During Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Pyongyang, North Korea's National Defense Commission Chairman Kim Jong Il tells Putin that North Korea will give up its intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) development program in exchange for two or three satellite launches a year.
—Kim Chin, "Pukhan 'Taeryukkan Missile P'ogi'," Joongang Ilbo, 5 August 2000, <http://www.joins.com/>.
North Korea begins the delivery of 50 Nodong missiles and seven launchers to Libya. According to Defense & Foreign Affairs' Strategic Panning Policy, the missiles are being procured on behalf of Iraq, Egypt, and Libya at a cost of $600 million. The North Korean firm Ch'ŏngchŏn'gang Corporation is the supplier.
—"Arms Transfer Tables," Defense & Foreign Affairs' Strategic Panning Policy, January 2002, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
North Korea ships 50 Nodong missiles and seven launchers to Libya. The deal also includes the dispatch of North Korean engineers and technicians to "design storage facilities."
—Eli J. Lake, "Analysis: Prospect of North Korean Missile Curbs Fade," United Press International, 6 December 2000.
North Korea and Syria complete a contract for North Korean exports of Scud missiles to Syria.
—Eli J. Lake, "Analysis: Prospect of North Korean Missile Curbs Fade," United Press International, 6 December 2000.
The US Defense Department reports that North Korea's ballistic missile inventory includes over 500 Scuds "of various types," and that North Korea "continues to produce and deploy medium-range Nodongs capable of striking United States bases in Japan." The report also says that North Korea continues to work on the "5,000km-range Taepodong-2," and that the "Perry process provides a diplomatic roadmap for addressing...the missile threat."
—US Secretary of Defense, "2000 Report to Congress: Military Situation on the Korean Peninsula," 12 September 2000, <http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Sep2000/korea09122000.html>.
Syria successfully flight-tests a "Scud-D" that was acquired from North Korea. The Scud-D is said to be capable of delivering chemical and biological warheads.
—Ch'oe Hong Sŏp, "'[Israel] Pukhan-Chungdong Missile Connection Magara'," Chugan Chosun, 12 April 2001, <http://www.weekly.chosun.com>.
Marshall Cho Myŏng Rok, vice chairman of North Korea's National Defense Commission, visits Bill Clinton at the White House. Cho delivers a formal plan for North Korea to abandon its Taepodong missile program in exchange for satellite launches.
—Jim Mann, "U.S. and North Korea Vow to Improve Ties," Los Angeles Times, 13 October 2000, p. A1, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Chosun Ilbo, 11 October 2000, in "DPRK Proposes Dropping Missile Project During Meeting With Clinton," FBIS Document ID KPP20001011000098, 11 October 2000; Chu Yong Chung, "Onŭl Kongdongsŏngmyŏng Muŏl Tamŭlkka/Mi-Puk 'Shil'ikch'aenggigi' Hab'ŭimun Shin'gyŏngjŏn," Chosun Ilbo, 12 October 2000, p. 3, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Yun Kuk Han, "Clinton Yŏnnae Pukhanbangmun," Hankyoreh Shinmun, 13 October 2000, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; "Puk-Mi Kongdongsŏngmyŏng Chŏnmun/Pukhanchŭk Palp'yo," Munhwa Ilbo, 13 October 2000, p. 4, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Kuk Ki Yŏn, "Clinton-Cho Myŏng Rok, 45 Pun'gan Yanggukhyŏn'an Taehwa," Segye Ilbo, 12 October 2000, p. 3, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
The United States and North Korea issue a joint communiqué that includes a North Korean commitment not to "launch long-range missiles of any kind while talks on the missile issue continue."
—US-DPRK Joint Communiqué, Released by the Office of the Spokesman US Department of State, 12 October 2000, <http://www.state.gov/www/regions/eap/
001012_usdprk_jointcom.html>; Donga Ilbo (Seoul), 3 May 2001, in "ROK Daily Sees DPRK Decision to Freeze Missile launch as Gesture to US," FBIS Document ID KPP20010503000123; Chu Yong Chung, "Onŭl Kongdongsŏngmyŏng Muŏl Tamŭlkka/Mi-Puk 'Shil'ikch'aenggigi' Hab'ŭimun Shin'gyŏngjŏn," Chosun Ilbo, 12 October 2000, p. 3, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Yun Kuk Han, "Clinton Yŏnnae Pukhanbangmun," Hankyoreh Shinmun, 13 October 2000, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; "Puk-Mi Kongdongsŏngmyŏng Chŏnmun/Pukhanchŭk Palp'yo," Munhwa Ilbo, 13 October 2000, p. 4, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>; Kuk Ki Yŏn, "Clinton-Cho Myŏng Rok, 45 Pun'gan Yanggukhyŏn'an Taehwa," Segye Ilbo, 12 October 2000, p. 3, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright visits Pyongyang, where she meets with Kim Jong Il, National Defense Committee Vice Chairman Cho Myŏng Rok, Foreign Minister Paek Nam Sun, and Kim Yŏng Nam, president of the presidium of North Korea's Supreme People's Assembly. During the visit, Albright discusses the possibility of launching satellites in exchange for North Korean restraints on its missile program. Albright says a lot of progress is made, but it will be discussed in more detail in an experts' meeting the following week. During six hours of talks, Kim Jong Il agrees "to halt all exports of missile technology, including existing contracts, and to freeze testing, production and deployment of all missiles with a range over 500km." Albright is said to be impressed with Kim's familiarity with the technical details of the missile issue and his ability to discuss it without referring to his notes.
—Michael Gordon, "How Politics Sank Accord on Missiles With North Korea," New York Times, 6 March 2001, <http://www.nytimes.com/>; Son Key Young, "US, NK Discuss Missile-for-Satellite Exchange-Secretary of State Albright Says," Korea Times, 25 October 2000, <http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/>; "U.S. Secretary of State and Her Party Arrive," Korean Central News Agency, 23 October 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; "Kim Jong Il Receives U.S. Secretary of State," Korean Central News Agency, 23 October 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; "Kim Jong Il Arranges Dinner for U.S. Secretary of State," Korean Central News Agency, 23 October 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; "Jo Myong Rok Meets Madeleine K. Albright," Korean Central News Agency, 23 October 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; "Kim Jong Il Meets Again Madeleine K. Albright," Korean Central News Agency, 24 October 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; "Kim Yong Nam Meets Albright," Korean Central News Agency, 24 October 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; "Jo Myong Rok Hosts Luncheon for Albright," Korean Central News Agency, 24 October 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; "Paek Nam Sun Meets U.S. Secretary of State," Korean Central News Agency, 24 October 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; "Albright Meets Mediapersons (sic)," Korean Central News Agency, 24 October 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; "Banquet Given by U.S. Secretary of State," Korean Central News Agency, 24 October 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; "U.S. Secretary of State Leaves," Korean Central News Agency, 25 October 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp/>; Leon V. Sigal, "Reversing US Missteps Toward North Korea," Boston Globe, 23 June 2001, <http://www.boston.com/>; Ch'oe Wŏn Ki, "Don Oberdorfer 'Tugaeŭi Korea' Kaejŏngp'an/'Im Dong Wŏnssi Kŭkpi Pangbuk," Joongang Ilbo, 5 December 2001, p. 10, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
In Tokyo, Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi tells Japanese Foreign Minister Yohei Kono that Iran's Shehab missiles have been developed independently and are not linked to the North Korean missile program.
—Vladimir Solntsev, "Iranian Shehab Missiles Not Linked With Any KDPR Programme," ITAR-TASS News Agency, 31 October 2000.
North Korea delivers the first of 50 Nodong missiles to Libya as part of a $600 million contract. North Korea also sends at least 11 engineers and technicians to help Libya deploy the missiles. According to a source in the US Defense Department, North Korea delivers 36 missiles and launch equipment, which Israeli intelligence discovers after it is moved from a dessert location to the coast.
—"Libya Obtains N. Korean No-Dong Missiles," World Tribune.com, 9 August 2001, <http://www.worldtribune.com/>; Lee Jong Hwan, "Jiang Zemin 'Puk Missile Kaebal Pandae'," Donga Ilbo, 10 August 2001, p. 5, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.
Commercial satellite imagery from the Space Imaging Company, based in Denver, Colorado, indicates that the Musudan-ri launch facility has been modified since satellite imagery was obtained one year ago in November 1999. The new imagery shows that the launch pad has a new structure that is 10m wide and 20m long, as well as a new building near the launch pad. The modifications may give the facility the capability of launching the Taepodong-2, which is estimated to have a range of up to 6,000km.
—David C. Isby, "North Korea Updates Taepo Dong Launch Pad," Jane's Missiles & Rockets, vol. 5, no. 7, July 2001, p. 2; Chu Yong Sŏng, "Puk, Taepodong Missile Palsadae'e Kujomul," Chosun Ilbo, 16 May 2001, <http://www.chosun.com/>; Kyodo News Service (Tokyo), 16 May 2001, in "Satellite Shows New Structure at N. Korean Launch Pad," FBIS Document ID JPP20010516000123; Kyodo News Service, "Satellite Shows New Structure at N. Korean launch Pad," Japan Economic Newswire, 16 May 2001, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
The United States and North Korea hold "expert-level" talks on the North Korean missile program in Kuala Lumpur. The talks cover the technical details of providing satellite launches and other compensation in return for North Korea halting its missile program.
—"Missile Deal to Open Way for Clinton's Trip to NK," Korea Times, 31 October 2000, <http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/>; Kim Tu-hwan, "Reemerging DPRK Missile Issue," Yonhap News Agency, 22 February 2001, in "DPRK Missile Development Reemerges As Pending Issue," FBIS Document ID KPP20010222000105; Michael Gordon, "How Politics Sank Accord on Missiles With North Korea," New York Times, 6 March 2001, <http://www.nytimes.com/>.
Citing the 2000 South Korean Defense White Paper, Channel NewsAsia reports that North Korea has deployed 500 short-range missiles along its border with South Korea. [Note: The 2000 Defense White Paper does not reference the number of short-range missiles North Korea has deployed. The report is most likely due to a mistranslation of a section in the Defense White Paper that mentions the deployment of 500km range Scud-Cs.]
—"North Korea Deploys New Artillery Units Along Border," Channel NewsAsia, 4 December 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Republic of Korea Ministry of National Defense, Defense White Paper: 2000.
US Secretary of State Madeline Albright says that there is a "genuine possibility" of the United States and North Korea reaching an agreement on North Korea's production and exports of missiles.
—Kyodo News Service, "Albright Sees 'Genuine Possibility' of Deal with Pyongyang," Japan Economic Newswire, 21 December 2000, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.
President Clinton issues a statement that there is not enough time to conclude a missile agreement with North Korea before his term expires in January 2001, and therefore will not visit Pyongyang. Clinton also says that he believes Kim Jong Il is committed to reaching an agreement on ending the North Korean missile program. Sources say North Korea was unwilling to commit to specific details until Clinton arrived in Pyongyang. According to reports, Clinton was to visit Pyongyang 7-10 January 2001.
—John Lancaster, "Clinton Rules Out a Visit to North Korea," Washington Post, 29 December 2000, p. 26; Kyodo News Service, 29 December 2000, in "N. Korea Rejects Missile Accord Draft with U.S.: Sources," FBIS Document ID JPP20001229000032.
North Korea conducts three or four engine tests for its Taepodong-2 missile at the Hwadae-kun [Musudan-ri] test facility, with the last test being conducted in mid-December 2001. According to a South Korean source, it will take some time for North Korea to conduct a test flight of the Taepodong-2.
—Park Tu Shik and Yu Yong Wŏn, "Mi, Puk Missile Kamshich'ejero," Chosun Ilbo, 6 February 2002, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Kim Min Sŏk, "Pukhan, Changnyŏn Such'arye Missile Shilhŏm," Joongang Ilbo, 6 February 2002, <http://www.joins.com>; "North Korea Working to Improve Missile's Range," Joongang Ilbo, 6 February 2002, <http://english.joins.com>; Joongang Ilbo, 7 February 2002, in "ROK DefMin Report: DPRK Conducts 'Numerous' Missile Tests in 'Past Few years'," FBIS Document ID KPP20020206000145; "Report: N. Korea Preparing New Long-Range Missile Test," World Tribune.com, 7 February 2002, <http://www.worldtribune.com>; Kyodo News Service, 6 February 2002, in "N. Korea Conducts Engine Tests for Long-Range Missile: Report," FBIS Document ID: JPP20020206000070; Kim Kwi Kŭn, "Puk, Changnyŏn Such'arye Missile Engine Shihŏm," Yonhap News Agency, 6 February 2002, <http://www.yonhapnews.co.kr>
