SEOUL: North Korea fired several cruise missiles towards the Yellow Sea on Wednesday, intensifying concerns about regional stability. This move follows a series of aggressive weapons tests by the nuclear-armed state, including the recent unveiling of what it referred to as an “underwater nuclear weapon system” and a solid-fueled hypersonic ballistic missile.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed the launch, stating, “Our military detected several cruise missiles launched by North Korea towards the Yellow Sea at around 7:00 am today.” The detailed specifications of the missiles are currently under analysis by South Korean and U.S. intelligence authorities.
Cruise missiles, unlike their ballistic counterparts, are not prohibited under current UN sanctions against Pyongyang. Known for their lower altitude and jet propulsion, cruise missiles pose a unique challenge as they are harder to detect and intercept.
The timing of North Korea’s missile launch coincides with South Korea’s ongoing 10-day special forces infiltration drill off its east coast. The drill, prompted by what the South describes as “serious security situations” with the North, aims to enhance readiness and response capabilities.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s recent declaration designating South Korea as the “principal enemy” has further strained inter-Korean relations. Kim’s rhetoric included the abandonment of agencies dedicated to reunification, threats of war over territorial matters, and the rejection of key tension-reducing agreements.
South Korea’s Defence Minister, Shin Won-sik, responded to the missile launch by warning that North Korea would face the end of its regime if it initiated war. During a visit to an air force base operating advanced stealth fighter jets, Shin emphasized the need for an “overwhelming response” to protect South Korea.
President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea, addressing his cabinet, asserted that in the event of North Korean provocations, the response from the South would be “multiple times stronger.” The heightened tensions have led to a sharp deterioration in inter-Korean ties, with both sides abandoning key agreements and engaging in military drills along the border.
Kim’s recent threats of a nuclear attack and calls for a military build-up have heightened concerns about the potential for armed conflict. North Korea’s missile tests, including the recent launch towards the Yellow Sea, underscore the volatile nature of the region and the challenges in maintaining stability.
As the international community closely monitors developments on the Korean Peninsula, diplomatic efforts are crucial to preventing further escalation and finding pathways to ease tensions.
