North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered that 103 scientists in the field of national defense science receive promotions, state media said on Tuesday, in a reported reward for their efforts in bringing about a "turning point" in the country’s military capabilities.

Kim, who also serves as head of the DPRK ruling party's Central Military Commission, was said to have used "Order No.008" to elevate the ranks of scientists who “have made great contributions to bolstering up the military capabilities for self-defense,” Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said.