North Korea's state media reported that leader Kim Jong Un visited a major munitions factory, believed to produce artillery shells, where he instructed an increase in production capacity.

North Korea's Korean Central Television reported the news on Thursday, along with images showing Kim inspecting rows of metallic tube-like objects.

South Korean media reports said that judging from the shape of the metallic tubes, the factory probably produces artillery shells.

Kim reportedly instructed that output capacity at the plant be expanded and stressed the need for significant innovation in munitions production.

The North Korean media report said Kim gave an important new plan to a committee responsible for production and exports of munitions.

The United States and South Korea have been accusing North Korea of providing artillery shells and other munitions to Russia, which is continuing its military aggression in Ukraine.

Kim's entourage during his visit to the factory included Jo Chun Ryong, a senior party official in charge of the munitions industry. Jo visited Russia in September last year and in January this year.

His presence raises the possibility that Kim inspected the factory with the intention of possibly supplying more munitions to Russia.