Seoul: North Korea fired several ballistic missiles into the sea on Saturday while the United States and South Korea were carrying out their large joint military exercises, increasing tensions in the region.
South Korea’s military said it detected about ten missiles launched from the Sunan area near the North Korean capital Pyongyang. The missiles flew several hundred kilometres before falling into waters off the country’s east coast.
Japan’s coast guard also confirmed the launches and said the projectiles landed outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone. There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries.
The launches happened during the annual Freedom Shield military exercises conducted by the United States and South Korea. The drills involve thousands of troops and various military equipment and are aimed at strengthening defence readiness.
Washington and Seoul say the exercises are defensive in nature. However, North Korea strongly criticises the drills and often calls them preparations for an invasion.
North Korea has frequently responded to such exercises with missile launches and military demonstrations. Analysts say the latest launches appear to be a message of strength from Pyongyang and a reminder that its weapons development continues despite international sanctions.
The situation is being closely watched by regional governments as tensions remain high on the Korean Peninsula. Military officials in South Korea said they are maintaining close coordination with the United States and Japan while monitoring for any further launches.