North Korea launches short-range missile amid ongoing tensions
SEOUL, South Korea — North Korea launched a short-range ballistic missile toward the waters off its east coast on Thursday, South Korea’s military reported, marking yet another instance of weapons testing by North Korea this year, reports BritPanorama.
The military detected the launch from North Korea’s eastern coastal Wonsan area around 5 p.m. local time, according to a statement by South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff.
They indicated that South Korea’s military has augmented its surveillance efforts and is maintaining close coordination with the U.S. and Japan.
Japan’s Defense Ministry also confirmed that North Korea fired a possible ballistic missile, but noted there was no impact in or around Japan.
North Korea has been concentrating on expanding its nuclear and missile capabilities since leader Kim Jong Un’s negotiations with U.S. President Donald Trump faltered in 2019. Analysts suggest that Kim seeks international recognition as a nuclear state to leverage the removal of economic sanctions imposed on North Korea.
Last month, Kim oversaw tests of a nuclear-capable cruise missile and other weapons from a new 5,000-ton destroyer. Following years of focusing on ballistic missile development, Kim appears to be increasingly prioritizing naval capabilities, including the development of a nuclear-powered submarine.
During a recent Workers’ Party congress, Kim outlined his five-year military objectives, which included plans for intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of underwater launches.
Furthermore, Kim has been enhancing his diplomatic stature by fortifying ties with Russia, with North Korea reportedly supplying conventional weapons and troops to support Russia’s military efforts against Ukraine.
