North Korean leader Kim Jong-un said that the ability to carry out space intelligence is of crucial importance for national self-defense and the protection of the country and that North Korea will never give up its efforts in this direction, state media reported, Reuters reported, quoted by BTA.
North Korea's attempt to launch a spy satellite on Monday failed after the rocket's first stage exploded mid-flight.
Kim made these remarks during his visit to the Academy of Defense Sciences, KCTA news agency reported.
"Owning military intelligence satellites is a critical task for strengthening national self-defense deterrence and protecting national sovereignty and security from potential threats ... due to military actions and provocations by the United States," he said.
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Kim attacked South Korea over criticism of the satellite and said Seoul was "playing with fire" by betting on a show of force and holding exercises involving fighter jets.