The Republic of Korea and Japan have reported that North Korea has conducted a missile launch of approximately ten ballistic missiles towards the Sea of Japan, (the East Sea) with indications that they also used an area close to Sunan, near the capital city, Pyongyang, as the launch site, marking one of the largest missile launches by North Korea in over two years.
The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff have confirmed that the missiles traveled in an easterly direction and ultimately landed in the sea. Officials stated that the projectiles landed outside Japan’s Exclusive Economic Zone, and there were no reports of damage or injury.
North Korea Launches Ballistic Missiles During US-South Korea Joint Military Exercises
The launch of the missiles took place during the United States and Republic of Korea’s “Freedom Shield” joint military exercises lasting approximately 11 days. The purpose of the exercises is to improve their readiness against potential threats from North Korea.
North Korea has continually condemned such exercises and has characterized them as preparations for an invasion. As a result of such exercises, North Korea frequently conducts missile launches or other military demonstrations to exhibit its ability to retaliate.
Analysts believe the timing of the missile launches demonstrates North Korea’s intention to send a clear political and military message to both Washington and Seoul.
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Regional Security Concerns Rise
The immediate outcome of the test launch of these missiles included activation of heightened military alert across Japan and Korea. Both military agencies in Japan and Korea are tracking the missiles and determining the flight trajectory and potential missile types.
According to Japan’s Ministry of Defense, at least one of these missiles may have landed in the water as detected by radar. This launch further heightens concerns surrounding the instability of Northeast Asian (NEA) security, with North Korean missile tests creating many concerns regarding the potential for escalation.
The United States’ Indo-Pacific Command has noted that it is aware of the test launches and is monitoring the situation closely. It further reiterated its commitment to support U.S. allies in NEA.
The most recent test of North Korea’s missiles is just one part of North Korea’s expanding ballistic missile program under Kim Jong-un, which is continuing to develop both ballistic missiles and nuclear weapons in spite of the numerous sanctions placed on North Korea by the international community. North Korea has tested a variety of missile systems over the last several years (e.g. short-range, intermediate-range, and intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear warheads).
Analysts believe these tests represent an effort by North Korea to improve their missile accuracy, mobility, and survivability to create an effective nuclear deterrent against any potential threats posed to North Korea from the United States and other allied countries in the region.
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Diplomatic Efforts Remain Uncertain
While there are signs of potential diplomatic opportunities between the U.S. and North Korea despite escalating tensions, previous attempts to restart negotiations regarding North Korea’s nuclear weapons were unsuccessful.
Recent missile tests show just how delicate the security situation is on the Korean Peninsula as continued military exercises, arms testing, and political tensions are shaping the way that major powers interact in this part of the world.
Analysts point out that if the cycle of testing and counter-testing continues, then instability will be higher in this area and there will be a greater chance of an unintentional escalation of conflict in the near future.
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