North Korea has launched what appears to be an intermediate-range ballistic missile towards the sea to its east, according to South Korea’s military. This marks Pyongyang’s first missile launch in two months. The missile reportedly traveled 1,100 kilometers before falling into the sea, prompting South Korea’s military to issue a strong condemnation, labeling it a “clear act of provocation.”
This launch coincides with a visit by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Seoul, where he is holding talks with key South Korean leaders. Earlier on Monday, Blinken met with South Korea’s acting president, Choi Sang-mok, describing the alliance between Washington and Seoul as a “cornerstone of peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.”
South Korea’s military announced it has bolstered surveillance in anticipation of further missile launches by the North. The military is also closely sharing information about the incident with its allies, including the United States and Japan. The timing of the missile launch raises questions about Pyongyang’s intent, particularly given the heightened political instability in South Korea.
South Korea has been mired in political chaos for weeks following suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol’s controversial martial law declaration in December. Yoon, impeached by lawmakers and stripped of presidential powers, now faces potential arrest as the constitutional court deliberates on his removal.
Pyongyang previously ridiculed Yoon’s martial law attempt as an “insane act” and accused him of “brazenly brandishing blades and guns of fascist dictatorship at his own people.” The political upheaval has further complicated South Korea’s ability to respond to North Korea’s provocations.
The missile launch comes just two months after North Korea’s last missile activity in November, which occurred on the eve of the U.S. presidential election. At that time, Pyongyang launched at least seven short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast. That display was likely a response to U.S. military drills involving a long-range bomber and joint operations with South Korea and Japan, which drew condemnation from Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Un.
Kim Jong Un, often referred to as a dictator by the international community, continues to solidify his grip on power through a cult of personality. His family has ruled North Korea for decades, maintaining control through strict state propaganda and suppression of dissent.
The latest missile launch underscores the fragility of regional security and the challenges of diplomacy with North Korea. While South Korea grapples with internal political strife, its military and international partners remain on high alert, emphasising the importance of collaboration to address Pyongyang’s provocations.
As tensions escalate, the world watches closely to see how South Korea, the United States, and their allies respond to North Korea’s latest move in an already volatile geopolitical landscape.
Melissa Enoch
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