CSIS Beyond Parallel, “Sinpung-dong Missile Operating Base” PDF document capture.

Analysis suggests North Korea has transitioned from fixed missile launch systems to a mobile ICBM system, enhancing concealment and mobility.

In a report released on the 20th (local time), the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in the United States stated that North Korea has established a secret missile base equipped with mobile launchers and ICBMs in Sinpung-dong, North Pyongan Province, only 27 km from the Chinese border. This is assessed not merely as a missile storage facility but as a case demonstrating an essential shift in North Korea's nuclear strategy.

According to the report, the Sinpung-dong base was constructed between 2004 and 2014, and subsequent satellite imagery confirms ongoing renovation and expansion work to accommodate the development of intermediate-range ballistic missiles (IRBMs) and intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). The base consists of underground entrances, cavern-like facilities, command and support structures, and recent satellite photos indicate expansion efforts.

CSIS has not confirmed the specific missiles deployed at the Sinpung-dong base, but initial analyses suggest a high probability of operating six to nine Hwasong-15 and Hwasong-18 ICBMs, or as yet unrevealed new ICBM models. Furthermore, the base is presumed to house **mobile launchers (TEL·MEL)**, and analysis indicates that during an emergency, launchers and missiles could exit the base, rendezvous with warhead storage and transport units, and conduct a surprise launch from a pre-designated launch site.

This structure signifies that North Korea has overcome the vulnerabilities of fixed launch systems. Fixed launchers are susceptible to pre-detection by satellite and reconnaissance assets and are easier targets for preemptive strikes by the United States or South Korea.

However, mobile launch systems, with their concealment and mobility, transition to a state of "undetectable, unattackable." Notably, solid-fuel-based ICBMs do not require fueling procedures, allowing for extremely short launch preparation times and enabling "surprise launches without countdown."

This represents a declaration beyond mere armament possession, signifying that North Korea has secured tangible and survivable nuclear deterrence capabilities.

The fact that the Sinpung-dong base is only 27 km from the Chinese border adds strategic significance. This deployment is interpreted as an attempt to deter the possibility of a preemptive strike by the United States. If the base were attacked, the damage could spread into China, leading to the interpretation that North Korea is utilizing China as a 'strategic shield'.

In this regard, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on the 21st that "CSIS's analysis shows that North Korea has expanded its threat capability against the US mainland while evading the risk of a preemptive strike." The newspaper further assessed that "the introduction of mobile launch systems signifies North Korea's advancement beyond simply possessing nuclear weapons to strengthening its practical capabilities for actual use."

CSIS has designated the Sinpung-dong base as one of North Korea's 'strategic missile belts.' Along with other undeclared strategic bases such as Hoengjung-ri, Sangnam-ri, and Yongrim, it is a key element supporting North Korea's expanded nuclear deterrence and strike capabilities. It is estimated that North Korea is currently concealing and operating approximately 15 to 20 ballistic missile bases, none of which have ever been publicly disclosed, and the issue of base disposition has not been addressed during denuclearization negotiations between North Korea and the US.

The report warned that "camouflaged strategic missile bases like the Sinpung-dong base can pose a direct threat not only to East Asia but also to the US mainland," indicating that North Korea's nuclear threat has transitioned from quantitative possession to a phase of qualitative expansion.

CSIS Beyond Parallel, “Sinpung-dong Missile Operating Base” (Published August 20, 2025)

Wall Street Journal, “North Korea Has a Secret Long-Range Missile Base Near Chinese Border, Report Says” (Reported August 21, 2025)

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