Did North Korea Just Fire Multiple Cruise Missiles After a Warship Incident?
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Synopsis
In a provocative move, North Korea has launched multiple cruise missiles into the East Sea following a troubling incident during the unveiling of a new warship. As tensions rise, the implications for regional security are significant, prompting close scrutiny and readiness from South Korea and its allies.
Key Takeaways
- North Korea launched multiple cruise missiles into the East Sea.
- A serious incident occurred during the launch of a new warship.
- Kim Jong-un condemned the incident as unacceptable.
- The South Korean military is on high alert and monitoring the situation closely.
- North Korea's military activities have escalated this month.
Seoul, May 22 (NationPress) North Korea has launched a series of cruise missiles into the East Sea on Thursday, according to reports from South Korea's military. This provocative action follows a significant incident that occurred during the unveiling of a new warship in Pyongyang just a day prior.
On the same day as the missile launches, North Korea reported that components of the new naval destroyer were damaged during its launch ceremony on Wednesday. The country's leader, Kim Jong-un, condemned the incident as a criminal act that is unacceptable.
The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) of South Korea detected the missile launches at approximately 9 a.m. from the Sondok region in South Hamgyong Province, although they did not disclose the exact number of missiles involved.
It is believed that the missiles were possibly launched from a maritime platform, and a detailed investigation is currently underway in collaboration with U.S. intelligence.
In February of the previous year, North Korea successfully test-fired a new surface-to-sea missile designated as Padasuri-6. Authorities are now assessing whether this latest missile launch might be a variant of that anti-ship missile.
The JCS emphasized that they are carefully monitoring North Korea's actions to prevent any misjudgment of the existing security climate, affirming their readiness to respond decisively to any threats.
This month, North Korea has conducted a series of military displays, including the launch of several short-range ballistic missiles into the East Sea on May 8.
Typically, the South Korean military does not immediately report on cruise missile launches from North Korea, unlike ballistic missile launches, which are prohibited under UN Security Council resolutions, according to Yonhap news agency.
On May 17, Kim Jong-un supervised air combat and air raid exercises conducted by an air force unit, underscoring the importance of rigorous war preparedness across military divisions.
During his visit, Kim urged all military units to initiate a dramatic shift in their war readiness posture, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
The military drills aimed to train air units and anti-air missile, radar, and electronic warfare teams to detect, track, and neutralize enemy cruise missiles and suicide drones, as per KCNA.
These exercises included tests of a new long-range precision glide-guided bomb, target attack drills, and training for the destruction of enemy drones using helicopters, as well as precision strikes on naval targets and demonstrations of strategic reconnaissance and multipurpose drones, KCNA noted.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach North Korean developments with a sense of caution and awareness of the broader geopolitical implications. While the North's military actions are concerning, it is essential to remain steadfast in our commitment to national security and regional stability, prioritizing diplomatic solutions where possible.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered North Korea's missile launches?
The missile launches were triggered by a serious incident during the launch of a new warship, which North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un condemned.
How did South Korea respond to the missile launches?
South Korea's military, through the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is closely monitoring North Korean activities and remains prepared to respond decisively.
What kind of missiles did North Korea launch?
North Korea launched multiple cruise missiles, potentially from a maritime platform, as part of its ongoing military demonstrations.
What recent military activities has North Korea engaged in?
North Korea has conducted several military displays this month, including the launch of short-range ballistic missiles and air combat drills overseen by Kim Jong-un.
What is the international response to North Korea's actions?
Internationally, North Korea's missile launches raise concerns about security and compliance with UN resolutions, prompting close scrutiny from South Korea and its allies.
