Latest North Korean weapons test includes suspected short-range missiles fired into the sea

SEOUL, South Korea—North Korea conducted test-fires of suspected short-range ballistic missiles into the sea on Monday, as reported by the country’s neighbors, amid speculation that it may be preparing to launch a banned satellite into orbit.

South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff stated that the missiles launched from North Korea’s capital region traveled approximately 300 kilometers (185 miles) before landing in the waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan. The range indicates that potential targets could include locations in South Korea.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff strongly denounced the launches, labeling them as a “clear provocation” that poses a threat to peace in the Korean Peninsula. They reaffirmed readiness to respond “overwhelmingly” to North Korean provocations in coordination with their military alliance with the United States.

Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi informed reporters that North Korea launched at least one ballistic missile, covering a distance of 250 kilometers (155 miles) at a maximum altitude of around 50 kilometers (30 miles). He emphasized that North Korea’s repeated missile tests and provocative acts jeopardize Japan’s peace and security, as well as that of the region and the global community.

Japan’s coast guard cautioned ships to be vigilant against falling debris, although no immediate reports of damage were received.

In recent months, North Korea has escalated its weapons testing activities, aiming to enhance its military capabilities while diplomatic negotiations with the United States and South Korea remain dormant. Analysts posit that North Korea perceives an upgraded arsenal as a bargaining chip for greater concessions should talks resume.

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North Korea revealed on Saturday that it conducted tests of a “super-large” cruise missile warhead and a new anti-aircraft missile in a western coastal area the previous week. Additionally, in early April, North Korea test-launched a solid-fuel intermediate-range missile with hypersonic warhead capabilities, believed to target remote locations such as Guam in the U.S. Pacific territory and beyond.

Historically, North Korea has tested nuclear-capable missiles designed to strike South Korea, Japan, and the continental U.S. Though acknowledging North Korea’s possession of nuclear missiles capable of reaching South Korea and Japan, experts note the absence of functional intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of targeting the U.S. mainland.

In response to North Korea’s advancing nuclear threats, the U.S. and South Korea have bolstered their joint military drills and trilateral exercises with Japan. On Monday, South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman, Kim Myung-soo, held discussions with U.S. Space Command Commander, Stephen N., to address countering North Korean threats.

Speculation suggests that North Korea could launch its second spy satellite this month, possibly to coincide with significant anniversaries like the birth of its founder Kim Il Sung on April 15 or the founding anniversary of a precursor of the North’s military on April 25.

U.N. Security Council resolutions prohibit North Korea from launching ballistic missiles and satellites, as the global body deems satellite launches as a violation involving prohibited ballistic missile technology.

South Korea’s military indicated on Monday that evidence hints at North Korea preparing for a spy satellite launch, although there are no indications of an impending launch.

Last November, North Korea claimed to have placed its inaugural military spy satellite into orbit, although doubts persist regarding its capabilities. Furthermore, in late December, Kim Jong Un announced plans to launch three more military spy satellites in 2024.

By Hyung-jin Kim and Kim Tong-hyung