North Korea launched what seemed to be several short-range ballistic missiles into the sea off its east coast on Wednesday, South Korea’s military reported. This comes just one week before an important Asia-Pacific leaders’ meeting scheduled to take place in South Korea, raising concerns about regional security.
This was the first time Pyongyang fired ballistic missiles since May, breaking an international ban supported by the US and South Korea. Despite warnings and sanctions, North Korea continues to develop and test these weapons, ignoring global calls for restraint.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and US President Donald Trump are expected to meet in South Korea next week at a summit meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum. Trump is also expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Security Beefed Up
According to reports, Seoul is stepping up its security measures in the southeastern city of Gyeongju, which will host the summit.
Up to 18,500 police officers, SWAT teams and coast guard staff as well as anti-drone jammers, armoured vehicles and helicopters will be mobilised as international leaders gather in Gyeongju, a quiet city known for its heritage tourism.
Short Range Ballistic Missiles Fired
South Korea detected several projectiles believed to be short-range ballistic missiles fired from an area near North Korea’s capital, Pyongyang, in a northeasterly direction early on Wednesday, its Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement.
South Korea was sharing information about the launch with the US and Japan, the military said.
No Harm To Japan, Says PM Takaichi
Japan’s new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who broke the glass ceiling by becoming the first woman at the top post in male dominated Japanese politics, said there was no impact on her country’s security from the North Korean missile launch and Tokyo was sharing real-time information with the US.
North Korea last launched ballistic missiles on May 8 when it fired multiple short-range missiles from its east coast.
North Korea showcased its latest intercontinental ballistic missile this month at a parade attended by the Chinese premier.
(With inputs from Reuters)
