Translation result
[Anchor] Military officials say North Korea launched multiple missiles into the Yellow Sea today, including short-range ballistic missiles. This is the first ballistic missile provocation in 37 days. We’ll connect to our defense correspondent for details. Ji Seong-rim. [Reporter] South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said forces detected multiple types of projectiles, including short-range ballistic missiles, launched from the Jeongju area of North Pyongan Province toward the Yellow Sea at about 1 p.m. today. The missiles flew roughly 80 kilometers (about 50 miles). South Korean and U.S. military analysts are conducting a detailed assessment to determine their exact capabilities. The Joint Chiefs said South Korean and U.S. intelligence tracked the launches from the outset and shared information, and that related data was also shared with Japan. This marks North Korea’s first ballistic missile launch in 37 days and its eighth so far this year. On April 19, North Korea launched several short-range ballistic missiles from the Sinpo area of South Hamgyong Province into the East Sea. State media reported that Kim Jong Un observed a test firing of a ground-to-ground tactical ballistic missile armed with a cluster-munition warhead. North Korea had generally restrained missile provocations during President Donald Trump’s visit to China. With speculation growing about a possible visit to Pyongyang by Chinese President Xi Jinping, analysts are looking at why North Korea chose to launch missiles now. Some see the launch as a show of resolve — signaling Pyongyang will not abandon its goals to further develop nuclear and missile capabilities ahead of a potential Xi visit. President Lee Jae-myung told a Cabinet meeting at the Blue House this morning that South Korea must further strengthen its defense posture, including accelerating plans to acquire nuclear-powered submarines. Pyongyang may have deployed the missile option in response to Seoul’s defense buildup. Others view the launches as part of North Korea’s ongoing weapons development and military-strengthening programs — essentially tests of new systems. This report comes from the Defense Ministry. For Yonhap News TV story inquiries and tips: KakaoTalk/Line jebo23. Ji Seong-rim (yoonik@yna.co.kr)
Most Commented