North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles into the sea on Sunday, marking an escalation in its military activity amid heightened global tensions linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
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According to South Korea’s military, the missiles were fired from near the eastern coastal city of Sinpo at around 6:10am local time, travelling approximately 140 kilometres before landing in waters off the Korean Peninsula.
This was the fourth missile launch by Pyongyang this month and the seventh so far this year, reflecting an intensified show of force. Analysts suggest the launches are intended to demonstrate the country’s self-defence capabilities while increasing its leverage ahead of potential diplomatic engagements.
Former South Korean security adviser Kim Ki-jung said the move may signal that North Korea seeks to distinguish its military strength amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
The developments also come as Donald Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung have expressed interest in holding talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, though no formal plans have been announced.
Meanwhile, Japan said the missiles appeared to have landed near the eastern coast of the Korean Peninsula, with no violation of its exclusive economic zone reported.
South Korea’s presidential office, the Blue House, convened an emergency security meeting, condemning the launches as a provocation and a violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions.
Experts also point to North Korea’s advancing nuclear capabilities. Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, recently warned that Pyongyang has made significant progress in expanding its nuclear weapons programme, potentially including new uranium enrichment facilities.
The latest missile activity underscores rising security concerns in the region, particularly as diplomatic efforts remain uncertain.
