In a dramatic turn of events, North Korea has fired two short-range ballistic missiles, according to South Korea's military. This action comes shortly after Pyongyang issued a warning of an "inevitable" response to the ongoing joint military drills between the United States and South Korea. The two countries have been increasing their defense cooperation in the face of growing threats from the nuclear-armed North. Currently, they are engaged in live-fire "annihilation" exercises, which have raised concerns and heightened tensions in the region.
Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff reported that the launch occurred between 19:25 and 19:37 local time from the Sunan area, with the missiles landing in the East Sea, also known as the Sea of Japan. The military authorities in Tokyo confirmed the launch, stating that the missiles had fallen within Japan's exclusive economic zone, raising further alarms in the international community.
The deteriorating relations between the two Koreas have reached a new low, with diplomatic efforts at a standstill. North Korea's leader, Kim Jong Un, has declared his country an "irreversible" nuclear power and called for increased weapons production, including tactical nukes. This has provoked international concern and condemnation, as the isolated nation continues to conduct sanctions-busting launches and test its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missiles.
In response to these actions, the administration of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, known for its hawkish stance, has been actively strengthening defense cooperation with the United States. Joint drills, previously scaled back due to the COVID-19 pandemic and diplomatic efforts, have been expanded. President Yoon personally witnessed the live-fire exercises on Thursday, which further infuriated Pyongyang, viewing them as preparations for an invasion.
North Korea issued a statement strongly criticizing the joint military drills, accusing the US and South Korea of mobilizing offensive weapons and escalating military tension in the region. They vowed to counter any form of provocation and "demonstrative moves" by their enemies.
Adding to the already tense situation, South Korea filed a lawsuit on Wednesday seeking damages from North Korea for the demolition of a liaison office in 2020. The office, established to foster diplomatic ties, was destroyed by North Korea after relations deteriorated. South Korea is requesting 44.7 billion won ($35 million) in damages, with the Unification Ministry describing the demolition as an "illegal act." Although North Korea is likely to ignore any ruling by the court, South Korea and the United States have previously awarded damages against the North Korean government.
As tensions continue to rise, Japan has expressed its concerns over the recent missile launches. The two ballistic missiles fired by North Korea landed within Japan's exclusive economic zone, extending up to 200 nautical miles from its coast. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stated that the launches violate relevant UN Security Council resolutions and further escalate provocations against the international community. Japan has lodged a firm protest against North Korea, joining the growing chorus of countries demanding restraint and de-escalation.
These recent events serve as a stark reminder of the volatility in the Korean Peninsula and the potential threats posed by North Korea's military capabilities. The international community remains vigilant and closely monitors the situation, emphasizing the need for diplomatic solutions and peaceful dialogue to ease tensions and ensure regional stability.
