North Korea launched a long-range ballistic missile towards the Sea of Japan, just a day after South Korean officials reported that the North was preparing to test-launch an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) with the longest flight time of any previous test. The missile was launched at 7:10 a.m. local time from an area near Pyongyang and fell into the sea at 8:37 a.m., with Japan’s minister of defense calling it one of the longest flight times seen in a North Korean missile launch. The Japanese government confirmed that the missile would land approximately 190 miles west of Okushiri Island, outside its exclusive economic zone. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba stated that there were no reports of damage from the launch.
South Korea’s Defense Intelligence Command reported that North Korea had placed a mobile launcher in preparation for a possible ICBM launch around the time of the U.S. presidential election. The National Security Council condemned North Korea’s actions, calling it a violation of UN Security Council resolutions and emphasizing the need for serious dialogue to address the country’s weapons programs. The ICBM test comes after North Korea’s last test of a ballistic missile in July 2024, with the last ICBM test occurring in December of the previous year. The ICBM fired in December was fueled by solid propellant, launched from a road launcher, and had a flight time suggesting a potential range of 9,300 miles, putting the mainland U.S. in range.
Reuters reported on the escalating tensions following North Korea’s missile launch, with the Joint Chiefs of Staff stating that the missile was believed to be a long-range ballistic missile fired at a high angle. The Japanese government condemned North Korea’s actions, emphasizing the threat posed not only to Japan but also to the international community at large. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba confirmed that there was no damage resulting from the missile launch. The launch raised concerns about the stability of the region, with the National Security Council asserting that the DPRK’s priority on its weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs jeopardizes the well-being of its people.
The United States issued a statement condemning North Korea’s missile launch, noting that while it did not pose an immediate threat to U.S. personnel or territory, it raised tensions in the region and risked destabilizing security. The U.S. urged all countries to condemn North Korea’s actions and called on the DPRK to engage in serious dialogue to address the situation. The national security team is working closely with allies and partners to ensure the security of the American homeland, as well as the Republic of Korea and Japanese allies. The United States emphasized its readiness to take all necessary measures to protect its security and that of its allies in the region.
The launch of the ballistic missile by North Korea represents a significant escalation in tensions in the region, prompting condemnation from Japan, South Korea, and the United States. The missile test comes amid reports of North Korea preparing for an ICBM launch, further fueling concerns about the country’s aggressive weapons development programs. The international community has called for dialogue with North Korea to address the situation and prevent further destabilization of the region. The continued prioritization of weapons programs by North Korea raises fears about the safety and security of countries in the region and underscores the need for coordinated efforts to address the threat posed by the DPRK’s ballistic missile capabilities.
