North Korea launches multiple ballistic missiles toward East Sea

(MENAFN) In response, South Korea’s Office of National Security held an emergency meeting led by Deputy National Security Adviser Lim Jong-deuk, with participation from the Defense Ministry and the JCS. The office condemned the launch, saying it “constitutes a provocative act in violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions” and urging Pyongyang to halt such actions.

This marks North Korea’s first ballistic missile test since November 7, 2025, when a similar projectile was fired into the same waters. The South Korean military stated it is maintaining a heightened readiness posture and is coordinating with US forces to assess the situation and its regional security implications.

The US Indo-Pacific Command acknowledged the launch, noting that it does “not pose an immediate threat to U.S. personnel or territory, or to our allies,” while reaffirming America’s commitment to defend its homeland and regional allies.

Japan’s Defense Ministry reported that North Korea launched at least two missiles eastward, which appeared to fall outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone. Launched from the west coast, the missiles reached maximum altitudes of around 50 kilometers and flew approximately 900 km and 950 km (590 miles). Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi lodged a strong protest with Pyongyang, emphasizing that the launches threaten regional peace and security. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi directed officials to gather and share critical information, safeguard vessels and aircraft, and prepare for potential contingencies.

Separately, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspected a munitions factory on Saturday, instructing officials to expand production of tactical guided weapons, according to a state-run news agency.

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