Did North Korea Launch 10 Rocket Shells After Air Drills?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a provocative move, North Korea has fired 10 artillery shells from its rocket launcher system just a day after South Korea, the US, and Japan performed joint air drills. This act raises tensions in the region and underscores the ongoing military threats posed by Pyongyang.
Key Takeaways
- North Korea launched 10 artillery shells from a multiple rocket launcher.
- The launches occurred after trilateral air drills by South Korea, the US, and Japan.
- The 240mm rocket launcher can target Seoul and nearby areas.
- Monitoring of North Korean activities is ongoing by South Korean and US military authorities.
- The situation reflects ongoing military tensions in Northeast Asia.
Seoul, June 19 (NationPress) North Korea has reportedly launched approximately 10 artillery shells from its multiple rocket launcher system on Thursday, as confirmed by South Korea's military. This event occurred just a day after South Korea, in collaboration with the United States and Japan, executed joint air drills.
The artillery was fired towards the Yellow Sea at around 10 a.m. from the Sunan region near Pyongyang. South Korean and US intelligence agencies are currently analyzing this recent weapon test.
North Korea's 240mm multiple rocket launcher has the capability to target Seoul and its neighboring areas. Last year, North Korea conducted a test launch of what it termed a multiple rocket launcher equipped with a new guidance system, according to reports from Yonhap News Agency.
This latest weapon demonstration follows a trilateral aerial exercise involving South Korea, the US, and Japan, aimed at bolstering their security cooperation against the military threats posed by North Korea.
The exercise, the first conducted under the administration of Lee Jae Myung, featured joint operations among South Korean F-15K, US F-16, and Japanese F-2 fighter jets.
Previously, last month, North Korea had launched multiple cruise missiles towards the East Sea, following an incident where a new warship experienced a serious accident during its launch.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un condemned the mishap at the naval destroyer launch ceremony as a “criminal act” that should not be tolerated.
The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) reported detecting missile launches from the Sondok area in South Hamgyong Province, without providing detailed information regarding the number of missiles fired.
The JCS stated that they are actively monitoring North Korean activities to prevent any misjudgment of the current security situation, emphasizing their capability to respond “overwhelmingly” to any provocations.
This marks the latest significant missile activity from North Korea this month, following the launch of multiple short-range ballistic missiles into the East Sea on May 8.
Generally, the South Korean military refrains from promptly announcing North Korean cruise missile launches, unlike ballistic missile launches, which are prohibited under UN Security Council resolutions.
Point of View
We must remain vigilant about North Korea's military activities. The recent artillery shell launches and joint military drills highlight the delicate balance of power in the region. Our commitment to security and diplomatic efforts remains paramount as we navigate these complex challenges.
NationPress
19/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did North Korea launch the artillery shells?
North Korea launched the artillery shells following joint air drills conducted by South Korea, the United States, and Japan, as a demonstration of military capability and to assert its stance amid escalating tensions.
What type of rocket launcher did North Korea use?
North Korea utilized a 240mm multiple rocket launcher, which enables it to target areas within Seoul and its surrounding regions.
What was the recent context of the military drills?
The military drills were aimed at strengthening trilateral security cooperation against potential threats from North Korea, marking the first such exercise under the new administration in South Korea.
How does South Korea typically respond to North Korean missile launches?
South Korea's military generally monitors North Korean missile launches closely, especially regarding ballistic missiles, which are banned under UN Security Council resolutions.
What implications do these actions have for regional security?
The actions taken by North Korea could heighten regional tensions and prompt further military readiness from South Korea and its allies.
