Recent AI analysis of Nampo, combined with years of North Korea observation, has identified further unusual activity in the form of ongoing dismantlement of several large cargo ships and oil tanker in Nampo. While North Korea possesses aging vessels, the simultaneous dismantling of multiple ships is unprecedented. Typically, outdated ships are left moored at the docks. However, this appears to be a planned dismantling of specific vessels at a ship repair facility, with the dismantled materials organized for likely recycling. The targeted ships are common cargo vessels, ranging from 75m to 96m, representing about 60% of the large cargo ships typically seen in Nampo port, further suggesting these are older ships being scrapped. Construction activity also indicates the building of a new drydock, similar in size to existing ones. North Korea’s economy, having weathered the pandemic, appears to have the capacity for ship dismantling and repair. At the Nampo shipyard, the proximity of the dismantling area to construction hall, particularly near the oil tanker being dismantled, suggests the potential construction of similar vessels.

New land reclamation activity in Nampo has been identified since projects were carried out in the 1970s and 80s. Aimed at securing farmland, this is a long-term project typically requiring 5-10 years. Although currently proceeding with only limited equipment, it appears that North Korea is planning the future by building further capacity.