North Korea goes to space

* 2028-2030: Technological Advances
** Despite international sanctions, North Korea makes unexpected strides in space technology. The country invests heavily in research and development, focusing on rocket propulsion, satellite technology, and space exploration.
* 2031: Independent Rocket Development
** North Korea reveals the successful development of a powerful indigenous rocket named "Chollima-1." The rocket, designed for peaceful space exploration, becomes a symbol of national pride and technological achievement.
* Early 2032: International Skepticism
** The international community remains skeptical about North Korea's space program, suspecting potential dual-use applications of its rocket technology. Sanctions persist, limiting the country's access to global space collaboration and resources.
* Mid-2032: Astronaut Selection and Training
** North Korea announces plans to send its first astronaut into orbit using the Chollima-1 rocket. The selection and training of the astronaut are conducted in secrecy, with limited information disclosed to the international community.
* April 15, 2035: Successful Launch
** North Korea successfully launches the Chollima-1 rocket, carrying the first North Korean astronaut into Earth's orbit. The mission's success is met with a mix of domestic celebration and international concern, with questions raised about the true nature of North Korea's space ambitions.
* April 16, 2035: Global Reactions
** The international community reacts with a combination of admiration for the technological achievement and concern about potential military applications. Calls for increased transparency and collaboration in space exploration are voiced, but existing sanctions remain in place.
* 2036-2038: Expanding Space Capabilities
** Undeterred by the skepticism and sanctions, North Korea continues to invest in its space program. The Chollima-1 rocket is improved, and plans for satellite launches and further human space exploration initiatives are announced.
* 2040: Diplomatic Shift
** North Korea, recognizing the potential benefits of international collaboration, expresses a willingness to engage in peaceful space exploration partnerships. Diplomatic discussions unfold, and some nations cautiously consider easing certain sanctions based on verified progress and transparency in North Korea's space program.
* 2042: International Space Collaboration
** North Korea, now a recognized player in space exploration, enters into limited collaborations with select nations for joint space missions and scientific research. This marks a diplomatic turning point as the country integrates into the global space community.