Seoul: North Korea fired its first ballistic missiles in five months on Wednesday, approximately a week before South Korea is set to host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, which will include a visit from U.S. President Donald Trump.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) reported that multiple short-range ballistic missiles were detected at around 8:10 a.m., launched northeastward from Junghwa in North Korea's southern North Hwanghae Province. The missiles traveled approximately 350 kilometers. The JCS is collaborating with the U.S. to ascertain the exact specifications of the missiles, which could potentially be the same type tested by North Korea in September 2024. Sources indicated that the missiles might have landed inland rather than in the East Sea.
Previously, North Korea launched short-range ballistic and cruise missiles toward the East Sea on May 8 and May 22. The latest activity marks the first missile launch since President Lee Jae Myung assumed office in June and is the fifth ballistic missile launch this year. The JCS has increased monitoring efforts and is maintaining readiness in collaboration with the U.S. and Japan.
This missile test occurs ahead of South Korea's APEC summit on October 31-November 1, attended by President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The launch raises concerns about North Korea's potential continued provocations as it seeks recognition from the U.S. as a nuclear-armed state. Earlier this month, North Korea introduced its Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), believed capable of reaching the U.S. mainland, during a military parade, fueling speculation of a possible test launch.
There is also speculation that President Trump might meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, potentially in the inter-Korean truce village of Panmunjom, during his visit to South Korea. Additionally, some observers suggest that the short-range missile launches might be aimed at provoking Seoul.