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North Korea reveals secret missile base near China border

New CSIS findings show a hidden base that could affect regional stability and US security.

August 21, 2025 at 07:10 AM
blur North Korea has a secret missile base that poses a ‘potential nuclear threat’ to the US, new report says

A CSIS report reveals a hidden North Korean missile base close to the China border that could widen the regional and US security threat.

North Korea opens secret missile base near China border heightens nuclear threat to US

The Sinpung-dong site lies just 27 kilometers from the China border. It covers about 22 square kilometers and remains undeclared in public data. The report says it could store up to nine nuclear capable ICBMs and mobile launchers and has been operational since 2014 after construction began in 2004. It is part of a network of 15 to 20 bases kept hidden from public records.

The base adds to North Korea's evolving missile program and its ties with Russia in recent years. Sanctions violations are noted and the base may use a mix of fixed and portable launchers to complicate targeting. The exact missile model is not confirmed but could include Hwasong 15 or Hwasong 18 or another system.

Key Takeaways

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A secret base near the China border adds new dimensions to North Korea deterrence
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The base houses mobile launchers enabling rapid dispersal
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The location complicates targeting and could influence Beijing's reaction
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The base is part of a wider undeclared missile network
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Sanctions violations and new Russia ties compound risk
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Exact missile model at the site remains unconfirmed

"These missiles pose a potential nuclear threat to East Asia and the continental United States."

CSIS warning in the report

"By building bases so close to China, North Korea may also seek to leverage the political risk and uncertainty of Beijing’s response in order to deter an attack."

Leif-Eric Easley commentary

"Construction on the base began in 2004, according to satellite images, and it has been operational since 2014."

CSIS timetable finding

"Those actions are in violation of United Nations sanctions that strictly limit North Korea’s access to materials and weapons."

Sanctions breach noted in article

The location near the China border shifts how regional players view risk. It may deter or provoke depending on Beijing's response and the broader strategic climate.

Publicly available data from satellite imagery and refugees helps researchers but does not replace official disclosures. The finding underscores how many undeclared facilities may still underlie North Korea's deterrence and threaten stability.

Highlights

  • Hidden bases shape fear with little transparency.
  • Close to the border missiles rewrite regional risk dynamics.
  • Dispersed launchers keep decision makers guessing.
  • Satellite eyes can reveal plans but not intentions.

Geopolitical risk from undeclared missile bases

The report highlights potential regional tensions and the challenges for diplomacy involving the United States, its allies, China, and North Korea. Publishing sensitive military information could provoke backlash and affect sanctions enforcement.

Watching how responses unfold will test regional diplomacy in real time.

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