A new report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) reveals that North Korea has constructed a secret missile base near its border with China, which could store nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and pose a significant threat to East Asia and the United States. This discovery highlights Pyongyang’s ongoing efforts to expand its nuclear capabilities despite international sanctions.
Who: The report was published by CSIS, a Washington-based think tank, and involves North Korea’s military activities under leader Kim Jong Un. It draws on satellite imagery, interviews with North Korean refugees and officials, declassified documents, and open-source data to identify the base.
What: The secret base, named Sinpung-dong, is equipped to store up to nine ICBMs and their mobile launchers. It is part of an estimated 15 to 20 undeclared ballistic missile bases in North Korea, forming a ‘missile belt’ that supports the country’s nuclear deterrence strategy.
When: The report was released on August 21, 2025. Construction of the base began in 2004, and it has been operational since 2014, with continuous maintenance and development observed, indicating advancements in North Korea’s missile program.
Where: Located just 27 kilometers from the China border in a narrow mountain valley, the base covers approximately 22 square kilometers. Its proximity to China is strategic, as any potential fallout from an attack could affect Chinese territory, possibly deterring military actions by adversaries.
Why: North Korea is bolstering its nuclear program to enhance its strategic capabilities and deter attacks, in violation of United Nations sanctions. The location near China may also be intended to leverage geopolitical risks and complicate international responses.
How: The base was discovered through detailed analysis of satellite images, which show facilities like entrance checkpoints, headquarters, warehouses, and missile support structures. Concealment tactics, such as covering entrances with vegetation, make it difficult to detect except during winter when foliage is sparse.
Impact: This base poses a direct threat to regional and global security, potentially targeting East Asia and the US mainland. It exacerbates tensions on the Korean Peninsula, undermines diplomatic efforts, and raises concerns about North Korea’s estimated 40-50 nuclear warheads. Recent cooperation with Russia further complicates the security landscape.
What’s next: The international community, particularly the US and South Korea, may need to reassess defense strategies and consider increased diplomatic pressure or sanctions. Ongoing monitoring and intelligence efforts will be crucial as North Korea continues to advance its weapons programs under Kim Jong Un’s leadership.