Seoul

On Tuesday, North Korea launched several short-range ballistic missiles into the East Sea, according to South Korea’s military. The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) reported detecting the missile launches around 7:30 a.m. from the Sariwon area in North Hwanghae province, with the missiles flying approximately 400 kilometers before landing in the sea.

Officials believe these launches involved the KN-25 super-large multiple rocket launchers, which can hit targets throughout South Korea from their launch site. The exact number of missiles fired is still being analyzed.

These missile tests occurred just hours before Americans voted in the presidential election between Democratic candidate Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump. South Korean officials suggested that North Korea often conducts weapon tests around U.S. elections to demonstrate its military capabilities and gain international attention.

This event followed the North’s recent launch of the Hwasong-19 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), claimed to be able to reach the U.S. mainland. Experts view these actions as attempts by North Korea to showcase its nuclear prowess while diverting focus from its troop movements to Russia. The JCS has indicated that North Korea may conduct more provocative actions, including a potential nuclear test, as it remains prepared for further military demonstrations.

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Japan, S.Korea, and the US condemned N.Korea’s missile tests

Tokyo

On Tuesday, Japan, South Korea, and the United States condemned North Korea’s recent launch of multiple short-range ballistic missiles into the East Sea, calling it a serious threat to regional and global security. This response came during a high-level phone call among officials from the three countries, who stated that these missile tests violate United Nations Security Council resolutions and emphasized their commitment to coordinated responses.

South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff reported that the missiles were launched from the Sariwon area in North Korea, traveling approximately 400 kilometers before landing in the sea. They believe the missiles were fired from KN-25 multiple rocket launchers, which can target anywhere in South Korea.

These missile launches come as North Korea seeks to showcase its nuclear capabilities amid speculations related to the upcoming US presidential election. In light of these developments, South Korea remains alert for any further provocations.