NIS Warns of Heightened Risk of Terrorist Attacks on Multi-Use Facilities Due to Middle East Turmoil and Evolution of AI-Driven Tactics

Publication of "Terrorism Trends in 2025 and Outlook for 2026" Report

"Concerns Over Terrorist Targets at Global Sporting Events Such as the World Cup"

The National Intelligence Service (NIS) has recently warned that the unstable situation in the Middle East has heightened the possibility of terrorist attacks targeting public places and multi-use facilities worldwide. The agency also assessed that advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) technology are likely to further evolve terrorist tactics.

The motto stone "Information Is National Power" restored by the National Intelligence Service in front of the agency building. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

On April 24, the NIS announced the publication of a report titled "Terrorism Trends in 2025 and Outlook for 2026." The report consists of three chapters: an assessment and outlook of terrorism trends along with major incidents and statistics; the domestic situation and counterterrorism activities in Korea; and regional terrorism trends across 48 countries.

The NIS analyzed that, as the aftermath of the Middle East war continues, the likelihood of terrorist attacks targeting diplomatic missions, religious facilities, and multi-use venues in countries around the world remains high this year. The agency specifically warned that global sporting events that attract international attention, such as the World Cup, could also become major targets for terrorist attacks.

According to the report, a total of 1,453 terrorist incidents occurred in 65 countries worldwide last year. This marks an increase from 1,337 incidents recorded in 51 countries in 2024. On the other hand, casualties from terrorist attacks totaled 13,197 last year, a decrease of about 1.7% compared to 13,426 the previous year.

The main causes cited were the expansion of operational areas by major terrorist groups such as ISIS into Africa and Southwest Asia, as well as an increase in attacks and attempted terrorist acts by extremists in Western countries. The NIS also pointed out that the scope of counterterrorism measures is gradually expanding in various countries.

Technical threats are also becoming more advanced. The NIS expects that the development of AI technology will lead to the evolution of terrorist tactics using AI chatbots and generative tools. The agency especially warned of the potential misuse of emerging technologies, such as autonomous vehicles and robotics, which are at the commercialization stage, for terrorist attacks.

Regarding the domestic situation, the NIS assessed that attempts to finance and support terrorism continue and that there is a risk of violent extremism spreading. The agency emphasized, "Korea is no longer a safe zone from terrorism and anti-social crimes, making the importance of countermeasures greater than ever."

Meanwhile, the NIS will hold the "2026 National Security Paper and Idea Contest" for undergraduate and graduate students both in Korea and abroad. Submissions will be accepted from April 27 to July 31, with winners scheduled to be announced in September after a review process.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.