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As observations continue that North Korea's seventh nuclear test is imminent, it has been confirmed that South Korea's intelligence authorities are looking at Friday, three days later, as the most likely date.
It is known that the continued pressure from the US and China and the weather conditions will be the final variables.
Reporter Kim Tae-hoon, specializing in defense, reports exclusively.
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In less than three months, preparations for North Korea's nuclear test were virtually completed since the restoration of Tunnel No.
At the beginning of last month, nuclear bombs and observation and filming equipment were put in the tunnel, and various cables were connected between the tunnel and the ground.
In the middle of last month, it is known that the first backfilling of the tunnel inside and outside is covered with soil to reduce the impact of the explosion.
It is understood that additional backfilling and installation of a ground observatory that remotely operates the detonator are currently being finalized.
A government source told SBS, "Based on various information such as preparations, the weather in Punggye-ri, and internal circumstances in North Korea, the date of the nuclear test is highly likely to be the 10th."
He added, "Even if it exceeds 10 days, I think it will be carried out no later than the 20th, when the rainy season begins."
The last variable is pressure from the US and discouragement from China.
The U.S. has deployed the world's strongest fighters F-22 and F-35 to Japan and B-1B strategic bombers to Guam, respectively, and the Los Angeles-class nuclear-powered submarine Charlotte is continuing its armed protests by unveiling its deployment in the Western Pacific. .
It is also known that China is making it known that the UN will no longer take sides with North Korea when it conducts a nuclear test.
(Video editing: Lee Seung-jin, CG: Jang Seong-beom)