Wonsan:North Korean leader Kim Jong-un oversaw the launch of an intermediate-range strategic missile and emphasized the need to enhance the "fatality" of the country's offensive capabilities. The missile test occurred at dawn on Saturday, targeting the East Sea, as part of efforts to train missile troops operating the "hypersonic strategic weapon system."
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim Jong-un highlighted the importance of maintaining a "constant mobilization posture" for the military's counterattack capabilities. He stressed the need for ongoing efforts to ensure the reliability and effectiveness of North Korea's strategic offensive means, describing the missile launch as a method to further develop the country's nuclear deterrence capabilities.
State media released images showing Kim Jong-un overseeing the launch alongside his daughter, Ju-ae, and his wife, Ri Sol-ju. The missile reportedly hit a target 1,000 kilometers away in the East Sea. The South Korean military detected the missile launch from the Wonsan area, noting it traveled over 700 kilometers.
Kim Yo-jong, the sister of the North Korean leader, disclosed the missile firing and criticized the tracking capabilities of South Korean and Japanese military authorities. Experts suggested that the missile could be the Hwasong-16 Na hypersonic medium-range ballistic missile, capable of altering its flight path at low altitudes.
The missile test occurred amid escalating tensions following a land mine explosion in the Demilitarized Zone last month, which injured three South Korean soldiers. South Korea accused North Korea of violating the armistice agreement and demanded an apology. North Korea denied involvement, accusing Seoul of fabricating evidence and threatening retaliation.
South Korea's defense ministry condemned the missile launch as a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions. It assured that the missile was detectable and interceptable by South Korean and U.S. defense systems and urged North Korea to cease actions that escalate tensions on the Korean Peninsula.