South Korea says North Korea is operating four uranium enrichment facilities, including the known Yongbyon site, signaling a potential expansion of its nuclear weapons program.

The North is reportedly producing highly enriched uranium daily, with estimates suggesting a stockpile of around 4,400 pounds—far more than the 550–1,100 pounds estimated in 2018.

While the locations of the other undeclared sites remain unknown, experts warn that uranium enrichment plants can be easily concealed, making it hard to verify the number of nuclear weapons North Korea has produced.

Kim Jong Un has repeatedly rejected using his nuclear arsenal as a bargaining chip and continues to advance weapons tests and missile capabilities, NBC News has reported.

Analysts say any future diplomacy would likely see Kim seeking substantial sanctions relief and improved U.S. ties in exchange for only partial denuclearization.