Pyongyang – Just days before US President-elect Donald Trump is set to assume office, North Korea has launched several short-range ballistic missiles into the East Sea, according to South Korea’s military. The move marks Pyongyang’s second missile provocation of the year and underscores rising tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
Details of the Launch
The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) in South Korea reported that the missiles were fired at approximately 9:30 a.m. from the Ganggye region in Jagang Province. The missiles traveled around 250 kilometers before landing in the ocean. The exact number of missiles launched remains unspecified.
Tuesday’s launches follow North Korea’s January 6 hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile test and are seen as another act of defiance toward South Korea, the US, and Japan. Given the range, the missiles are likely aimed at demonstrating threats to South Korea.
Escalating Threats and Rhetoric
North Korea’s latest provocation aligns with its increasingly aggressive rhetoric. At a recent year-end party meeting, Pyongyang pledged to adopt the “toughest counteraction policy” against the US, citing growing military cooperation between South Korea, the US, and Japan as a “military bloc for aggression.”
The JCS described the launch as a “blatant provocation” that endangers peace and stability in the region. It also vowed to maintain a strong readiness posture, warning against any miscalculation by North Korea.
Global Reactions and Preparedness
South Korea’s acting president, Choi Sang-mok, condemned the launch, labeling it a direct violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions. He promised a robust response in coordination with the US.
“Our military has strengthened monitoring and vigilance against potential additional launches, sharing intelligence closely with US and Japanese counterparts to maintain full readiness,” the JCS stated.
Yonhap News Agency reported the detection of transporter erector launchers near the launch site, signaling the possibility of further missile activities.
A Pattern of Defiance
This latest missile test follows a similar launch on November 5, 2024, just hours before the US presidential election. Analysts view these provocations as part of North Korea’s strategy to assert its position on the global stage, particularly as military collaboration between its perceived adversaries strengthens.
As President-elect Trump prepares to take office, the international community will be watching closely to see how his administration responds to this escalating threat.