North Korea Launches Multiple Missiles Toward Yellow Sea

[Herald Economy=Yoon Ho] The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) reported that, at about 1 p.m. on the 26th, it detected multiple projectiles — including short-range ballistic missiles — launched from the Jeongju area of North Pyongan Province toward the Yellow Sea.

The JCS said the missiles traveled roughly 80 kilometers, and South Korea and the United States are conducting a detailed analysis of their exact specifications.

South Korean forces have tightened surveillance and alert measures to prepare for potential follow-on launches. South Korea, the U.S. and Japan are closely sharing ballistic missile-related intelligence and maintaining a high state of readiness.

Earlier, on the 19th of last month, North Korea launched several short-range ballistic missiles from the Sinpo area in South Hamgyong Province into the East Sea, claiming the rounds were equipped with multiple warheads. That was the first launch in 37 days and the eighth so far this year.

President Lee Jae-myung emphasized “self-reliant defense” at a Cabinet meeting that morning. He urged a transition to a next-generation, high-tech military, stronger support for the K-defense industry and deeper multilateral security ties. “Only with an independent will for defense will our friends respect us, and our alliances remain stronger,” he said.