Seoul:South Korea’s defense ministry has strongly condemned North Korea’s latest ballistic missile launch, calling it a serious threat to regional peace and stability. The missile, believed to be a short-range ballistic weapon, was fired from an inland area near Taekwan on Friday and traveled about 700 kilometers before landing in the sea off North Korea’s east coast.
In a statement, South Korea’s defense ministry said the launch was a clear provocation that violated United Nations Security Council resolutions.
Officials urged Pyongyang to immediately stop its actions that heighten tension on the Korean Peninsula. The ministry added that such acts only isolate North Korea further from the international community.
The launch came just days after North Korea warned of “offensive actions” in response to the ongoing joint military drills between the United States and South Korea. Pyongyang’s defense minister, No Kwang Chol, criticized the presence of a U.S. aircraft carrier in South Korean waters, calling it a sign of hostility.
The United States Indo-Pacific Command said the launch did not pose an immediate threat to U.S. personnel or allies but described it as destabilizing for the region. The U.S., South Korea, and Japan are now closely monitoring the situation.
North Korea has carried out a series of missile tests in recent months, including trials of solid-fuel engines for long-range weapons. Analysts believe the country is trying to demonstrate its growing military strength while pressuring Washington and Seoul to ease sanctions and reduce military cooperation.
Regional experts warn that the situation could worsen if North Korea follows through on its threat of further military action. Both Seoul and Washington have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining strong defense ties and deterring any aggression.
As tensions continue to rise, diplomatic efforts to reopen dialogue remain stalled. South Korea’s government has called on the North to choose peace over provocation and return to talks aimed at reducing conflict and building stability in the region.