North Korea Launches Multiple Ballistic Missiles Towards East Sea
SEOUL— In a bold and provocative move, North Korea fired multiple short-range ballistic missiles towards the East Sea (Sea of Japan) on Monday, according to Seoul’s military.
The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) reported that the missile launches were detected in the area of Pyongyang between 7:44 am and 8:22 am. The missiles flew approximately 300 km before landing in the East Sea.
According to the JCS, “North Korea fired at least three missiles, and their trajectories were similar to those of KN-24.” KN-24 is a solid-fuel ballistic missile with a range of up to 410 km and a payload of 400-500 kg.
The South Korean military swiftly detected and tracked the missiles, sharing the information with US and Japanese authorities. The JCS condemned the missile launch, stating it was a clear provocation threatening peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.
This latest launch marks North Korea’s second ballistic missile launch of the year, following the first on Jan. 14. In addition to ballistic missiles, Pyongyang has also conducted five rounds of cruise missile tests this year, raising concerns over undetectable weapons systems.
The missile launch coincided with the conclusion of the annual military exercise between Seoul and Washington, aimed at enhancing deterrence against North Korea’s nuclear and missile threats.
Japan’s Coast Guard confirmed the missile launches, noting that the objects had already fallen. The US and South Korea recently completed 11 days of joint military drills known as Freedom Shield.
North Korea has consistently denounced joint US-South Korea military exercises as preparations for an invasion. Earlier this month, Pyongyang warned of consequences for this year’s Freedom Shield drills, which involved a larger number of troops compared to the previous year.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Seoul to attend the Summit for Democracy, where he and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol discussed the role of technology in supporting or undermining democracy. — Agencies
