Image published by North Korea's monthly magazine Korea Today on March 21, 2023, shows North Korea's ballistic weapons, including tactical guided missiles. (Illustration: YONHAP/VNA)

Kim has ordered the deployment of a series of spy satellites to strengthen Pyongyang's surveillance capabilities.  

Upcoming launches will test the final phase of development and prepare for the launch of the new satellite, which will take place before the end of this month.

North Korea recently test-fired a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile.