North Korea launched a ballistic missile towards the sea at 6:30 AM local time on Saturday (21:30 UTC on Friday). According to reports, this missile flew over 700 kilometers (435 miles) and likely landed outside Japan's exclusive economic zone.
Seoul's reaction to the missile launch
South Korean military officials stated that this missile launch occurred amid rising tensions between the two countries. The National Security Office of the Presidential Office in Seoul urged Pyongyang to immediately stop the repeated launches of ballistic missiles, deeming these actions a "serious act" that does not help manage the current situation and is a violation of United Nations Security Council sanctions.
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Recent tensions between North and South Korea
This missile test comes as tensions between North and South Korea have sharply increased. Last month, landmine explosions injured three South Korean soldiers, and Seoul and the United Nations Command led by the United States stated that North Korean mines caused these explosions.
On Friday, Kim Yo-jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, rejected Seoul's request for an apology regarding these explosions, calling it "completely ridiculous." She also announced that North Korea intends to sever its relations with South Korea. Seoul has also called for an end to Pyongyang's efforts to strengthen the border, including the use of mines and anti-tank barriers.
This missile launch occurred as North Korea continues its military displays, including testing a seemingly hypersonic missile system, live-fire exercises, and the delivery of a new destroyer. Kim Jong-un has also continued to showcase his growing nuclear program, despite U.S. calls for a revival of diplomacy.
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