Kim Jong Un Says He Can ‘Get On Well’ With The U.S.—If It Respects North Korea’s Nuclear Power Status

Forbes Business

by Siladitya Ray, Forbes Staff

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue with the United States, but only if Washington respects North Korea’s status as a nuclear-armed state. Speaking at the Ninth Congress of the Workers' Party of Korea, Kim emphasized that his country’s nuclear capabilities are “completely and absolutely irreversible” and stressed that any meaningful dialogue between the two nations depends on the U.S. adopting a less confrontational approach. Kim also warned of potential consequences for South Korea, referring to it as an “eternal enemy” and threatening nuclear annihilation if provoked. This tough rhetoric contrasts with his more conciliatory tone toward the U.S., signaling a strategic divide in how North Korea views its two neighboring countries. While Kim hinted at the possibility of dialogue with Washington, he doubled down on his country’s adversarial stance toward Seoul. Kim’s comments align with previous statements where he has expressed openness to engagement with the U.S., particularly under former President Donald Trump. However, his current remarks underscore the importance of recognizing North Korea’s nuclear status as a non-negotiable condition for any diplomatic progress. This approach could have significant implications for regional stability and U.S.-led efforts to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula. From a business perspective, Kim’s statements highlight the ongoing risks and uncertainties in East Asia, which could impact global markets, trade relations, and investor confidence. The potential for renewed tensions or dialogue between North Korea and the U.S. adds another layer of complexity to an already volatile geopolitical landscape, one that businesses must closely monitor when assessing international trade policies and investment opportunities.

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Originally published on Forbes Business on 2/26/2026