North Korea fired 10 short-range ballistic missiles toward the sea following a US decision to reduce joint military exercises with South Korea.
North Korea launched approximately 10 short-range ballistic missiles toward its eastern waters on Thursday, according to South Korea’s military. The launches occurred a day after the US scaled back joint military exercises with South Korea, a move described as an overture to North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-un. South Korea’s military confirmed the missiles were detected by Japan and said it has increased surveillance and coordination with the US and Japan.
South Korea’s presidential national security council held an emergency meeting and urged North Korea to halt missile launches, which are prohibited under UN Security Council resolutions. The US had reduced the 11-day Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises, citing improved relations with Kim Jong-un and South Korea’s stance on the Iran conflict. Kim Yo-jong, Kim Jong-un’s sister, dismissed the US move but did not use typical North Korean rhetoric, suggesting Pyongyang may be waiting for further concessions before resuming talks.
Why it matters
The missile launches signal North Korea’s dissatisfaction with reduced US-South Korea military coordination.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
Watch whether North Korea escalates missile activity following further US-South Korea dialogue.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.