North Korea reportedly indicates missile launch preparations, according to South Korea's ministry statements.
South Korea's defense ministry has detected signs of a potential ballistic missile launch from North Korea, prompting the country to maintain its combat readiness and closely monitor the situation. This development comes amidst ongoing tensions on the Korean peninsula, which have been heightened since North Korea's fourth nuclear test in January and a long-range rocket launch the following month.
The suspected missile is believed to be a medium-range missile or larger, according to the defense ministry official, although the specific type was not specified. The Musudan missile, if launched, could cover the whole of South Korea and Japan, and potentially US military bases on Guam, with a range of 2,500 to 4,000 kilometres (1,550 to 2,500 miles). However, it is important to note that the Musudan missile, despite numerous attempts, has never been successfully flight-tested.
North Korea has been firing short-range missiles into the sea off its east coast, but the potential launch of a ballistic missile would mark a significant escalation in the region's tensions. In April, North Korea attempted three times to test-fire a powerful new mid-range missile known as a Musudan, but failed. These failed attempts were seen as an embarrassment for North Korea's leadership.
The offer of military dialogue to de-escalate the situation was made by North Korea's leader, Kim Jong-Un, during North Korea's party congress. However, South Korea has dismissed these overtures as insincere due to Kim's vow to push ahead with the country's nuclear weapons program. North Korea has expressed anger at South Korea's refusal to accept repeated offers of military talks.
In response to the potential launch, Japan has reportedly put its military on intercept alert. The Japanese Self-Defence Forces will deploy Aegis destroyers and PAC-3 surface-to-air anti-ballistic missiles to intercept any missile that threatens Japanese territory. The Japanese government has issued orders for its military to intercept any such missile.
During North Korea's party congress, Kim Jong-Un also extended an offer of military dialogue with South Korea. However, tensions remain high, and it is unclear when the next suspected ballistic missile test incident may occur. Unresolved UN resolutions ban North Korea from using ballistic missile technology.
As the situation continues to develop, both South Korea and Japan remain vigilant, maintaining their combat readiness and closely monitoring any further signs of a potential ballistic missile launch from North Korea.
