North Korea launched several short-range missiles into the sea on Tuesday, creating more tension in the area just before the United States presidential election. This move has worried nearby countries and raised global security concerns.
Japan’s Defense Minister, Gen Nakatani, reported that at least seven missiles were launched. They reached up to 100 kilometers (60 miles) high and traveled around 400 kilometers (250 miles) before landing in the sea between Korea and Japan. Nakatani called these missile launches a big threat to Japan, the surrounding region, and the world. He warned that these actions disrupt peace and security.
South Korea’s military also confirmed that they detected the missile launches. Some experts think North Korea’s missiles could target important facilities in South Korea, including bases where U.S. troops are stationed. Just recently, North Korea tested a new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), known as the Hwasong-19, which North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said could reach the U.S.
In response, the United States sent a long-range B-1B bomber to join military exercises with South Korea and Japan on Sunday. These exercises were intended to show strength and readiness.
South Korean officials believe North Korea may increase its military actions leading up to the U.S. election. Intelligence reports suggest that North Korea may even conduct another nuclear test, which would be its seventh. Analysts think North Korea hopes to gain some benefits, like easing international sanctions, from the next U.S. president.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has shown interest in working with Donald Trump, the Republican nominee, as they previously held talks on nuclear issues. However, the Democratic candidate, Kamala Harris, has said she would not cooperate with leaders like Kim.
Despite North Korea’s claims that its latest missile, the Hwasong-19, is the “strongest in the world,” experts disagree. They say the missile is too big to be useful in a real conflict and that North Korea still lacks important technology to make it fully functional, especially to keep the warhead safe when it re-enters the atmosphere.
North Korea’s missile launches and nuclear ambitions are a major concern for nearby countries and the global community. Many are closely watching what might happen next as the U.S. election approaches.
