SEOUL, (TDI): A high-ranking South Korean military official has said that North Korea launched multiple short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast.
According to South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff, the missiles were fired from Pyongyang at approximately 7:10 a.m., traveling around 360 km before falling into the sea. Specific details about the launch were not disclosed.
The Joint Chiefs of Staff condemned the missile test as a provocative act that threatens regional stability and peace.
Japan’s Ministry of Defense also confirmed the missile launch, noting that two North Korean ballistic missiles traveled over 350 km, reaching an altitude of 100 km.
Japan, US, South Korea Reaction
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who had recently visited South Korea to strengthen relations ahead of his impending resignation, strongly condemned the launch and filed a formal protest with Pyongyang. Kishida emphasized ongoing efforts to work closely with Washington and Seoul.
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Nuclear envoys from Japan, the United States, and South Korea held a telephone conference, labeling the launch as a clear violation of UN resolutions.
They pledged a firm response to any further provocations, according to South Korea’s Foreign Ministry.
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This missile test follows North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s recent pledge to significantly increase the country’s nuclear arsenal.
Last month, Kim supervised a test of an upgraded 240 mm rocket launcher system and inspected new “suicide drones.” He has also called for advancements in artificial intelligence for unmanned vehicles.
