North Korea's missile test sets new record, sparks global tension
The North Korean leader, Kim Jong Un, personally oversaw the test of an intercontinental ballistic missile, which, according to the KCNA agency, "broke the latest record for strategic missile capabilities." South Korean authorities announced new sanctions on Pyongyang, and Japan expressed concern over the escalating tensions in the region.
2:19 PM EDT, October 31, 2024
North Korean media reported that the missile test took place Thursday morning local time at Kim's order. According to KCNA, the leader stated that it was an "appropriate military action" aimed at showing North Korea's determination to respond to "enemies who deliberately escalate the situation in the region and pose a threat to the security of our Republic."
According to the South Korean military, the missile was launched toward the Sea of Japan. Japan's Defense Minister, General Nakatani, announced that it was the longest flight in history for a North Korean ballistic missile, lasting 86 minutes.
The missile reached an altitude of over 4,350 miles and travelled in a straight line of about 621 miles. Nakatani assessed that it could be a "new type" of missile.
U.S. military officials do not rule out that a new, 12-axle TEL (Transporter-Erector-Launcher) launcher, presented at the beginning of September, may have been used to launch the missile. This launcher allows for transport, setting up in a launch position, and firing the missile.
Japan, South Korea, and the US respond. "Outrageous act"
Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi described the test as an "outrageous act" leading to the escalation of tensions. He warned that North Korea might undertake "further provocative actions, including a nuclear test." The White House also condemned Pyongyang's actions, calling them a "flagrant violation" of numerous United Nations resolutions.
In response to the missile test, South Korea's National Security Council decided to impose new sanctions on North Korea. The office of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol reported on close cooperation with allies and the UN to effectively implement these sanctions.
Kim Jong Un, quoted by KCNA, announced that he will "never" change his stance on strengthening the country's nuclear forces.
The dangerous nuclear alliances and other military adventurism by our opponents, which we have witnessed in recent years, underscore even more the importance of strengthening our nuclear forces, said the North Korean leader.
A defence ministry spokesperson evaluated the test as "very significant," highlighting that it broke the latest record for strategic missile capabilities and demonstrated the modernity and reliability of strategic deterrence.
