DPRK announces satellite launch, Japan skeptic about object's nature

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
29 May 2023 08:15
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Pyongyang says it plans to launch its first spy satellite, however, Tokyo believes the launch could be a ballistic missile.

DPRK soldiers salute at Mansudae Hill in Pyongyang, North Korea (Reuters)

Japan declared Monday it is preparing for DPRK to launch in the upcoming weeks what Pyongyang has identified as a satellite, however, Tokyo argues it may be a ballistic missile.

A coastguard spokesperson said, as quoted by AFP, that Pyongyang has warned Japan's coastguard that a missile would be fired between May 31 and June 11 and will land in waters between the Yellow Sea, East China Sea, and east of Luzon Island in the Philippines.

The Prime Minister's office, however, stated in a tweet that Fumio Kishida provided orders "on North Korea's notification about the launch of a ballistic missile that it describes as a satellite."

He directed officials to collect intelligence, remain vigilant, and closely coordinate with allies, most notably the United States and South Korea, the tweet added.

Meanwhile, Japan's Defense Ministry has told the Air Self-Defense Force to destroy any ballistic missile verified to be on its way into the country's territory.

According to the Ministry, the forces would be authorized to utilize Standard Missile SM-3 and Patriot Missile PAC-3 to shoot down a projectile in mid-air.

"Even if it's described as a satellite, a launch using ballistic missile technology would be a violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions and a serious problem that threatens the safety of people," Kishida told journalists.

Commenting on possible negotiations with DPRK leader Kim Jong Un, Kishida on Monday reaffirmed that Tokyo is open to talks, stressing he was interested in "making concrete progress."

In a similar context, DPRK state media released a statement from its vice minister of foreign affairs, appearing to maintain a conciliatory approach to ties with Japan.

If Japan avoids "being shackled by the past, and seeks a way out for improving the relations, there is no reason for the DPRK and Japan not to meet," the statement from Pak Sang Gil said.

This is happening as Tokyo eyes a major arms buildup since World War II, intensifying tensions with China while increasing its coordination with the West in the Asia Pacific region.