North Korea has sharply criticized the United States’ newly unveiled “Golden Dome” missile defense system, calling it a “very dangerous threatening initiative” and accusing Washington of attempting to militarize outer space under the guise of national defense.
In a statement released Tuesday by the Institute for American Studies under North Korea’s Foreign Ministry, Pyongyang described the plan as “an outer space nuclear war scenario” and a product of “America First” arrogance. The remarks were carried by North Korea’s state-run news agency, KCNA.
The criticism comes just a week after U.S. President Donald Trump, on May 20, formally revealed the design and leadership of the ambitious $175 billion Golden Dome initiative. The system aims to deploy a global network of satellites equipped with advanced sensors and interceptors, capable of neutralizing enemy missiles shortly after launch — particularly those from China, Iran, North Korea, or Russia.
“This system is a typical manifestation of U.S. hegemonic ambitions, threatening the strategic security balance among nuclear states,” the North Korean statement said, warning of “grave consequences” if the U.S. proceeds with development.
China also expressed deep concern last week, urging the U.S. to scrap the project, stating it would only escalate tensions and provoke an arms race in space.
While President Trump described the initiative as “very important for the success and even survival of our country,” analysts have raised doubts about the system’s feasibility, citing enormous technical and political challenges. They note that the plan would likely face international legal scrutiny under existing treaties that prohibit the weaponization of space.
The Golden Dome program, if pursued, would mark a significant evolution in U.S. missile defense strategy — and could redefine global norms on space and nuclear deterrence. For now, North Korea’s fiery condemnation underscores the fragile geopolitical environment into which the project is being launched.
