Vice-Minister Choe Chun Gil told KCNA:

"After successfully launching two experimental satellites, Kwangmyongsong-1 in Juche 87 (1998) and Kwangmyongsong-2 three years ago, our scientists and technicians have fully solved scientific and technological issues concerning the application satellite launch. The forthcoming launch of a working satellite, Kwangmyongsong-3, manufactured by our country with indigenous technology will make great sensation in the world."

A department director, Yun Tong Gyu, said:

"A satellite is an important index to national power.

The world is advancing towards a higher level of the knowledge-based economy.

The forthcoming satellite launch will show that Korea does what it is determined to do."

A department director, Jang Song Ho, said:

"Many countries are making effort to explore and utilize the outer space. The DPRK has emerged a satellite manufacturing and launching state.

The launch of Kwangmyongsong-3 will be a great auspicious event for the nation that is translating into reality leader Kim Jong Il's grand plan for building a thriving country. We extend warm congratulations to scientists and technicians who contributed to manufacturing the satellite."