N. Korea launches multiple cruise missiles from eastern coast

North Korea stated that it was “enhancing monitoring and alertness, and closely observing for any further indications and actions from North Korea”

North Korea launched multiple cruise missiles off its eastern coast on Wednesday, as reported by Seoul’s military, marking the latest in a series of weapons trials this year. 

According to a statement from the Joint Chiefs of Staff, our military detected several unidentified cruise missiles in the waters northeast of Wonsan at around 9 a.m. today (12 a.m. GMT). South Korea-U.S. intelligence authorities are currently conducting a thorough analysis. 

The statement also mentioned that surveillance and vigilance are being intensified, and any additional signs and activities from North Korea are being closely monitored. 

Earlier this week, North Korea announced the testing of a new control system for a multiple rocket launcher, claiming it would play an “enhanced” role on the battlefield. 

This year, North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un has designated South Korea as his country’s “primary adversary,” disbanded agencies dedicated to reunification and outreach, and threatened war over even the slightest territorial violation. 

Pyongyang has escalated its weapons trials, including the testing of an “underwater nuclear weapon system” and the launch of a solid-fuelled hypersonic ballistic missile. 

In recent months, Pyongyang and Moscow have been making efforts to strengthen their ties, with leader Kim making a rare visit to Russia to meet President Vladimir Putin in September. 

Seoul and Washington have accused North Korea of supplying Russia with weapons in exchange for technical support for Kim’s satellite program, which would violate U.N. sanctions on both countries. 

Unlike ballistic missiles, the testing of cruise missiles is not prohibited under current U.N. sanctions on Pyongyang. 

Cruise missiles, which are typically jet-propelled and fly at lower altitudes than more advanced ballistic missiles, are more challenging to detect and intercept. 

Kim reiterated on Friday that Pyongyang would not hesitate to “terminate” South Korea if attacked, labeling Seoul as the North’s “most perilous and foremost enemy state and unwavering arch-enemy.” 

In January, North Korea conducted an artillery barrage near two South Korean border islands, prompting a live-fire drill by the South and evacuation orders for residents. 

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has pledged a robust response if Pyongyang initiates an attack, urging his military to “act first, report later” if provoked. 

Since assuming office in 2022, the hawkish Yoon has bolstered defense cooperation with the U.S. and Japan, including expanding joint drills, to counter North Korea’s escalating threats. 

Pyongyang has not only strengthened its defense ties with Moscow but has also seen the arrival of a group of Russian tourists, the first known foreign tour group since the border closures in 2020 due to the pandemic. 

Amid sanctions imposed after the invasion of Ukraine, it has become more challenging for Russians to travel to Europe and the U.S. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who has also visited Pyongyang, reportedly stated last year that North Korea could be recommended as a tourist destination. 

Source: Newsroom