In a provocative move timed with high-level diplomatic talks, North Korea launched several ballistic missiles early Sunday morning, according to South Korea's military. The launch marks Pyongyang's first ballistic missile test in two months and occurs as South Korean President Lee Jae Myung begins a crucial state visit to China.
Details of the Missile Launch
The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) of South Korea reported that the missiles were fired from the North Korean capital region of Pyongyang at approximately 7:50 a.m. local time on Sunday, January 4. The projectiles were launched toward the waters off North Korea's east coast. Japan's Ministry of Defense later stated the missiles are believed to have already fallen.
In response, South Korea's military stated it has strengthened surveillance and vigilance in anticipation of potential additional launches. Officials emphasized they are closely sharing information regarding the situation with allies the United States and Japan.
Strategic Timing Amid Diplomatic Outreach
The missile test coincides directly with the start of South Korean President Lee Jae Myung's state visit to China, where he is being hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping. A key item on the summit agenda, as noted by Seoul, is the promotion of peace and stability on the Korean peninsula.
Wi Sung-lac, President Lee's security adviser, indicated that Seoul expects Beijing to play a constructive role in fostering peace, though specific details of the discussions were not disclosed. Experts suggest Lee's agenda includes persuading China to help facilitate dialogue with a recalcitrant North Korea, which has previously dismissed Lee's outreach efforts.
North Korea's Recent Military Posturing
This launch follows a series of aggressive military gestures from North Korea in recent weeks. Just one day prior, on Saturday, North Korean state media reported that leader Kim Jong Un visited a munitions factory and called for more than doubling the production capacity of tactical guided weapons.
Kim has been actively touring weapons production sites and a nuclear-powered submarine, while also overseeing various weapons tests. This activity is seen as part of preparations for the upcoming Ninth Party Congress of the Workers' Party, a major political event where North Korea sets its key policy goals for the coming period.
The last known ballistic missile test conducted by North Korea prior to Sunday's launch occurred in November. The latest provocation underscores the persistent tensions on the peninsula and presents an immediate challenge to the diplomatic talks underway in Beijing.
