According to reports from North Korea's state media KCNA, leader Kim Jong Un observed military drills of long-range artillery units that were planned to strike "enemy capitals."

The drills took place on March 7th and involved multiple rocket launchers and self-propelled guns located near the border with South Korea, according to KCNA. Kim reportedly emphasized improving combat readiness and the ability to carry out surprise attacks against their enemies.

This comes during the annual "Foal Eagle" joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea, which North Korea views as rehearsals for invasion. Videos released by North Korean state media showed dozens of launchers firing munitions during the drills.

Kim said the artillery units must prepare to "mercilessly strike" their enemies at the start of any military conflict. He has overseen multiple military drills in recent days involving combined arms operations with the massive conventional artillery forces representing a major threat on the border.

In response, the Joint Chiefs of Staff in South Korea said they would strongly retaliate to any provocations from the North. They have detected the North Korean artillery firing drills on March 7th near Nampo on the west coast of North Korea.

There are concerns these displays of military strength from Kim could raise tensions during the allied exercises. However, others note it's a regular occurrence when drills are held and that North Korea may simply be reinforcing its deterrence capabilities in a serious manner.