North Korea launched multiple short-range ballistic missiles towards the sea on Thursday, following North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's recent declaration of readiness for battle with its rivals. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff reported detecting the missiles flying 360 kilometers before landing in waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida instructed officials to ensure the safety of ships and aircraft, with no reported damage.
The reported flight distances indicate the missiles were likely targeting South Korea. In response, diplomats from South Korea, Japan, and the U.S. condemned the launches, citing threats to regional and international peace. The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command reiterated its unwavering security commitment to South Korea and Japan.
These missile launches mark North Korea's first public weapons firing activities in over two months. In July, North Korea claimed to have tested a new tactical weapon capable of delivering a 4.5 ton-class warhead. Kim Jong Un, in a recent speech, emphasized the need to bolster North Korea's nuclear force in preparation for potential conflict with the U.S. and its allies.
Speculation has arisen regarding North Korea's potential development of a more powerful intercontinental ballistic missile, following the inspection of a large missile launch platform by Kim. Commercial satellite images suggest minor damage to North Korea's nuclear test site due to heavy rains, with no significant recent activity detected.
North Korea's recent actions, including launching balloons towards South Korea and intensifying weapons testing, are seen as efforts to enhance its strike capabilities against the U.S. and South Korea. The U.S. and South Korea have responded by expanding military drills, prompting North Korea to denounce these exercises as invasion rehearsals.
Kim's recent emphasis on expanding North Korea's nuclear program and deploying nuclear-capable missile launchers near the border with South Korea have raised concerns about regional stability. The international community continues to monitor North Korea's actions closely amid escalating tensions in the region.
