DPRK launches multiple ballistic missiles off Korean Peninsula
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The ballistic missile firing marks the first launches after the DPRK's two-month hiatus, resuming its missile activity.
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People watch a television screen showing a news broadcast with file footage of a North Korean missile test, at a train station in Seoul on September 12, 2024. (AFP)
The DPRK launched several short-range ballistic missiles into the sea east of the Korean Peninsula, just days after leader Kim Jong Un announced his plan to fully prepare the country's nuclear arsenal for potential conflict with its adversaries.
South Korea's joint chiefs of staff reported on Thursday the detection of missiles fired from Pyongyang at a range of 360 km, landing in the sea between Japan and the Korean Peninsula.
The report highlighted that Seoul is examining the details of the launch, while actively coordinating with US and Japanese officials about the DPRK ballistic missile. Additionally, it is also improving its surveillance and preparedness for further possible launches.
At least one suspected DPRK ballistic missile launch was confirmed by the Japanese Defense Ministry, with the coastguard urging vessels to be cautious.
DPRK resumes its missile activity after two months
Pyongyang resumed its missile activity on Thursday after a two-month hiatus, conducting its first launches since its July 1 testing of two tactical Hwasong-11 ballistic missiles capable of delivering 4.5-ton "super-large warheads."
The DPRK "will steadily strengthen its nuclear force capable of fully coping with any threatening acts imposed by its nuclear-armed rival states," Kim said in a speech marking his government's 76th foundation anniversary.
The leader stated he would enhance his nuclear capabilities to ensure full readiness for possible war with the United States and its allies, adding that the DPRK is confronting "a grave threat" due to "the reckless expansion" of the US-led military alliance in the region.
Last week, South Korea and the US held their first tabletop simulation of the Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) after concluding its largest joint military exercises last month.
The DPRK's Foreign Ministry condemned the drills, stating they are disturbing regional strategic stability while increasing the possibility of a nuclear conflict, Yonhap news agency reported, citing Korean Central News Agency. Additionally, Pyongyang has deemed the military exercises as invasion rehearsals.
