North Korea fired multiple short-range ballistic missiles toward the East Sea early Wednesday, days before South Korea hosts the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, raising concerns over renewed provocations as global leaders prepare to meet.
According to South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff, the missiles flew approximately 350 kilometers (217 miles) after being launched from an undisclosed site on the country’s eastern coast.
The launch marks North Korea’s first missile test in months and the first since President Lee Jae Myung took office in June.
“Our military has stepped up monitoring and is maintaining a steadfast readiness posture while sharing relevant information with the US and Japan,” Seoul’s military said in a statement quoted by Yonhap News Agency.
The missiles were fired toward the East Sea — also known as the Sea of Japan — a region that has often been a testing ground for Pyongyang’s short-range ballistic weapons.
Timing raises diplomatic tensions before APEC
The timing of the launch has raised concerns across the region, as it comes just a week before the APEC summit in Gyeongju, where leaders including US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to attend.
Experts had earlier warned that North Korea might conduct “provocative” missile tests before or during the high-profile summit to reassert its position as a nuclear-armed state and draw attention to its military capabilities.
North Korea’s continued defiance
North Korea has long rejected international sanctions and bans on its weapons development, claiming such programs are necessary to deter perceived threats from the United States and South Korea.
The regime’s latest military move follows a major parade marking the 80th anniversary of the ruling Workers’ Party, where Kim Jong Un showcased new missile systems and reiterated his goal of advancing nuclear weapons technology.
The display highlighted Kim’s growing diplomatic presence and his determination to strengthen North Korea’s defense posture amid shifting regional dynamics.
Renewed hopes and fears of dialogue
While tensions rise, former US President Trump — who met Kim Jong Un during his first term — recently said he hopes to meet Kim again, possibly later this year. However, analysts believe the latest launches may complicate any future diplomatic overtures.
Both Seoul and Washington remain on alert for further provocations, as regional intelligence officials monitor signs of additional tests or military displays ahead of the APEC summit.
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