North Korea launched at least one ballistic missile toward its eastern waters on Friday, according to South Korea’s military. This latest provocation underscores Pyongyang’s intensified weapons testing activities, which have surged in recent weeks. The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff did not disclose specific details about the missile’s type or flight range. This incident follows a series of recent tests, including the firing of hypersonic and cruise missiles last month, which North Korea claims have enhanced its nuclear capabilities. Earlier this week, North Korea also conducted artillery drills, firing 10 rounds into its western waters as U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth began a two-day visit to South Korea. The artillery exercises were repeated on Saturday, coinciding with a summit between South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Gyeongju. During the summit, Lee urged Beijing to play a more active role in persuading North Korea to resume dialogue with Washington and Seoul. Hegseth, following annual security talks with South Korean officials, commended South Korea’s plans to increase military spending in response to North Korean threats and regional uncertainties. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has consistently avoided diplomatic engagements with the U.S. and South Korea since talks with former U.S. President Donald Trump collapsed in 2019. Kim has instead focused on expanding his nuclear and missile programs, including the development of intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of targeting U.S. allies in Asia and the U.S. mainland. At a recent military parade in Pyongyang, attended by officials from Russia, China, and Vietnam, Kim showcased advanced weapons, signaling potential future tests. North Korea has also denounced U.S. sanctions targeting its cybercrime activities, accusing Washington of hostility and vowing countermeasures. Experts interpret these actions as indications that Pyongyang has no immediate plans to return to negotiations.
South Korea says North Korea fired at least 1 ballistic missile toward its eastern waters
