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.