NewKerala.com

North Korea's Missile Gambit: Why First Launch in 5 Months Raises Stakes

North Korea has broken its five-month missile testing pause with multiple ballistic missile launches. The timing appears calculated to coincide with President Trump's upcoming visit to South Korea for the APEC summit. Military officials are monitoring for additional launches while maintaining close coordination with US and Japanese counterparts. This escalation comes as North Korea continues pushing for recognition as a nuclear-armed state.

Key Points: North Korea Fires Ballistic Missiles Before Trump APEC Visit

  • Multiple short-range missiles flew 350 km from North Hwanghae Province
  • Launch timing coincides with Trump's upcoming APEC summit visit
  • Military maintains heightened readiness with US and Japan
  • Fifth ballistic missile test this year amid nuclear state recognition push
2 min read

North Korea fires 1st ballistic missiles in five months ahead of Trump's trip to APEC summit

North Korea launches first ballistic missiles in five months ahead of Trump's South Korea visit for APEC summit, escalating regional tensions.

"Our military has stepped up monitoring in preparation for additional launches - Joint Chiefs of Staff"

Seoul, Oct 22

North Korea fired its first ballistic missiles in five months Wednesday, about a week before South Korea is scheduled to host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit and US President Donald Trump's visit on the occasion.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said it detected multiple short-range ballistic missiles launched northeastward at about 8:10 a.m. from Junghwa in North Korea's southern North Hwanghae Province, Yonhap news agency reported.

The missiles flew about 350 kilometers, the JCS said, adding that it is trying to determine their exact specifications with the US side. Officials were weighing the possibility that the missiles were the same tactical ballistic one North Korea test-fired in September 2024.

Sources suggested the missiles may have landed inland rather than in the East Sea.

The North last fired short-range ballistic and cruise missiles toward the East Sea on May 8 and May 22, respectively.

"Our military has stepped up monitoring in preparation for (the possibility of) additional launches and is maintaining a steadfast readiness posture while sharing relevant information with the US and Japan," the JCS said in a release.

It marks the North's first missile launch since President Lee Jae Myung took office in June and the fifth ballistic missile launch so far this year.

The launch also comes ahead of South Korea's upcoming hosting of the APEC summit on October 31-November 1, with Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping scheduled to visit South Korea on the occasion.

The first missile launch in nearly five months came amid concerns that the North may continue escalating provocations as it seeks US recognition as a nuclear-armed state.

During its large-scale military parade earlier this month, North Korea unveiled its new Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) for the first time, believed to be capable of hitting anywhere on the US mainland.

The disclosure of the new ICBM sparked speculation that it may also undergo a test launch in the near future.

Wednesday's launch also came amid speculation that Trump may meet with Kim, possibly in the inter-Korean truce village of Panmunjom, during the US president's trip to South Korea.

Observers also suggested that the latest launches may be provocations targeting Seoul, given their short range.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
As an Indian, I see this as a reminder why we need strong defense capabilities. Nuclear proliferation in our neighborhood affects regional stability. Our government's measured approach to such situations is wise.
S
Sarah B
While I understand security concerns, I wish countries would invest more in dialogue and development rather than missile tests. The money spent on these weapons could feed millions of hungry people across Asia.
A
Arjun K
Strategic timing by North Korea! They want maximum attention before Trump's visit. This shows how regional tensions can escalate quickly. India must maintain its independent foreign policy in such situations.
V
Vikram M
The mention of new ICBM capable of hitting US mainland is alarming. This affects global security architecture. India should use its diplomatic channels to promote peaceful resolution in the Korean peninsula.
K
Kavya N
This is why India needs to be self-reliant in defense. We cannot depend on others for our security. The timing before APEC summit shows how countries use military displays for political messaging. 🤔

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50