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North Korea has conducted a test of nuclear-capable rocket launchers, state media reported on Sunday, a day after South Korea said it detected the launch of about 10 ballistic missiles.
According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), leader Kim Jong Un supervised Saturday’s test of a multiple rocket launcher system (MRLS). The exercise reportedly involved 12 ultra-precision 600mm launchers and two artillery companies. KCNA said the drill was intended to demonstrate the destructive capability of tactical nuclear weapons.
Kim was quoted as saying the exercise would leave countries within the system’s 420-kilometre striking range feeling uneasy and aware of its potential impact.
The rockets reportedly struck an island target in the East Sea of Korea more than 360 kilometres away.
Photos released by state media showed rockets being fired from large mobile launchers. Another image captured Kim observing the test alongside his daughter Ju Ae and a military official.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said it detected several launches from North Korea into the East Sea, also known as the Sea of Japan.
Seoul’s presidential office condemned the tests as a provocation that violates United Nations Security Council resolutions and urged Pyongyang to halt such activities.
The launches came as South Korea and the United States conduct their annual spring military exercises, known as “Freedom Shield,” which involve about 18,000 South Korean troops and run until March 19.
Security analysts say the launch timing appears closely linked to the joint drills.
Hong Min, a senior analyst at the Korea Institute for National Unification, said the launch pattern suggests the system is being used to signal nuclear deterrence and demonstrate capability against the US-South Korea alliance.
Earlier in the week, Kim Yo Jong, a senior official and sister of Kim Jong Un, warned that the exercises could trigger severe consequences. She argued that the drills were taking place at a time when global security tensions were rising, and conflicts were spreading across several regions.
North Korea has also criticised recent US-Israeli strikes on Iran, describing them as illegal aggression and accusing Washington of acting like a rogue state.
Pyongyang recently carried out additional missile tests from its naval destroyer Choe Hyon, claiming it is working to equip its navy with nuclear weapons.
