North Korea has fired multiple ballistic missiles towards the sea off its east coast, South Korea and Japan said on Sunday (April 19), marking the latest in a series of launches as Pyongyang continues efforts to strengthen its military capabilities.
The latest incident is the seventh ballistic missile test conducted by North Korea this year and the fourth in April alone, underscoring the country’s intensified weapons activity in recent months.
“As the US is focused on Iran, the North sees this as a golden time to upgrade their nuclear power and missile capability,” said Lim Eul-chul, a professor at Kyungnam University, as cited in reports.
South Korea’s presidential office reportedly convened an emergency security meeting following the launches, according to local media. The missile activity has raised renewed concerns over regional stability in East Asia.
The missiles were fired from near the city of Sinpo on North Korea’s east coast at around 6.10am, South Korea’s military said in a statement.
Japan’s government also confirmed the launch, stating via social media that the missiles are believed to have landed near the east coast of the Korean Peninsula, with no breach of Japan’s exclusive economic zone detected.
The latest tests come amid growing international attention, as China and the United States prepare for a summit in mid-May, where North Korea is expected to be among the key topics of discussion.
North Korea’s weapons development has drawn continued criticism, with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi recently warning of “very serious” advances in its nuclear capabilities, including the possible expansion of uranium enrichment facilities.
In late March, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reiterated that the country’s nuclear status is irreversible, stating that strengthening its “self-defensive nuclear deterrent” remains essential for national security.
