SEOUL, South Korea – North Korea stated on Thursday that their recent tests involved new weapons systems, including ballistic missiles with cluster-bomb warheads. The country aims to enhance its nuclear-capable forces directed at South Korea.
This announcement followed South Korea’s report of detecting multiple missile launches from North Korea’s eastern coastal area over two days. The testing period lasted three days beginning on Monday, with demonstrations of anti-aircraft weapons, electromagnetic weapons systems, and carbon-fiber bombs.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff reported that the missiles launched on Wednesday traveled 240 to 700 kilometers (150 to 434 miles) before landing in the sea. The U.S. military assured that these launches did not pose an immediate threat.
North Korea’s Korean Central News Agency revealed that the tests involved cluster-munition warheads on the Hwasong-11 ballistic missiles. These missiles are designed for maneuverable low-altitude flight, resembling Russia’s Iskander missiles, with the capability to target a large area and high-density power.
Tensions between North and South Korea were highlighted by these launches, dampening hopes for improved relations. North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Un, has halted diplomacy with both Seoul and Washington since 2019, focusing on developing nuclear-capable missiles that can reach U.S. allies in Asia and even the U.S. mainland.
In a statement, a North Korean government official criticized South Korea’s attempts to resume dialogue, labeling them as “world-startling fools.” Kim Jong Un has sought closer ties with countries like Russia and China to counter U.S. pressure and enhance regional influence.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is expected to visit North Korea for a two-day trip, as reported by state media, indicating ongoing diplomatic engagements among these nations.
