North Korea​ Launches Short-Range Ballistic Missile, Prompting Security Review Meeting

The Office of the President convened a security situation review⁣ meeting on the​ 18th immediately after⁤ North Korea’s launch of a ⁤short-range⁤ ballistic missile (SRBM) to discuss response measures.

Presided over by Second Deputy ‌Director of the National Security Office In Sung-hwan, the ⁣meeting was held to receive reports on the situation from relevant agencies and discuss⁤ countermeasures.

According to the Joint Chiefs of Staff, several SRBMs were ​fired ⁤toward the northeast⁤ from ⁣the Kaechon area in South Pyongan Province‌ at around 6:50 AM.‍ This marks North Korea’s resumption of provocations six days after the launch of ⁤a super-large multiple rocket launcher (KN-25) on the 12th.

The military is ⁣conducting a precise analysis of the missile’s exact specifications, ⁣including its type‍ and flight distance. The Japanese government estimated that the ballistic ‍missile launched by North Korea landed‌ in the sea outside its ⁤exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

The Joint Chiefs of Staff stated, “The military is maintaining a full readiness ⁤posture while closely ⁣sharing information related to North Korean ballistic missiles with the U.S. and Japan, ⁢while ⁣strengthening surveillance and vigilance in ⁢preparation for additional launches.”

North ⁤Korea’s recent increase in the frequency of provocations and military demonstrations is seen as⁣ an attempt to showcase their nuclear and missile capabilities and assert ⁣their presence as the US‌ presidential election approaches. Additionally, they have sent anti-South waste balloons nine times in ⁣ten days ⁣this month.

The military remains ⁤vigilant, closely monitoring the situation and preparing for potential future launches.