North Korea conducted dual missile launches off its eastern coast on Sunday, marking its second round of tests within a week. This action came shortly after Pyongyang accused the U.S. of escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula through a series of military exercises.
South Korea’s Defence Ministry reported that North Korea fired a short-range ballistic missile (SRBM) towards the East Sea on Sunday afternoon, followed by another SRBM launch just three hours later. This rapid succession of missile tests raises concerns about North Korea’s military activities.
The initial missile launch, identified as a ballistic missile by South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff and Japan’s Defence Ministry, originated from the Wonsan area around 3 p.m. local time. The projectile flew about 450 kilometers and is believed to be part of the Hwasong-11 series. The second missile, launched around 5:50 p.m. from Wonsan, traveled over 600 kilometers.
Both South Korean and U.S. intelligence agencies closely monitored the missile launches and shared relevant information with Japan. The South Korean National Security Council strongly condemned the missile tests, urging Pyongyang to halt such activities as they violate UN Security Council resolutions.
Japan also expressed its disapproval by lodging a protest through diplomatic channels in Beijing. Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi emphasized that North Korea’s actions pose a threat to Japan, the region, and global peace and security.
North Korea’s recent provocative actions, including missile launches and dismissals of international resolutions, have heightened tensions in the region. The country’s leadership, including Kim Yo Jong, has blamed U.S.-led military drills for exacerbating the situation and reiterated its commitment to enhancing its nuclear capabilities. The international community remains vigilant in response to North Korea’s unpredictable behavior.