North Korea missiles were fired into the East Sea on Wednesday, raising tensions just a week before the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in South Korea. The launches highlight Pyongyang’s strategic timing and test regional security measures.
The launch, the fifth this year, was the first in 167 days since May 8. It also marked North Korea’s first missile exercise since South Korean President Lee Jae Myung took office on June 4.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff reported multiple short-range ballistic missiles were launched around 8:10 a.m. from Chunghwa, North Hwanghae Province. The missiles traveled about 350 kilometers northeast.
The South Korean military vowed to boost surveillance and maintain full readiness while sharing intelligence with the United States and Japan. The presidential National Security Office held an emergency meeting to review countermeasures.
Earlier this year, North Korea tested missiles in May, including the Hwasongpho-11, KN-23, and KN-25 multiple rocket launcher. The exercises showed Pyongyang’s focus on precision-strike capabilities.
Analysts noted the timing suggests political motives. The APEC summit opens on October 31 in Gyeongju, with leaders including US President Donald Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
The National Intelligence Service advised a measured response, warning that overreaction could encourage repeated provocations. Rep. Park Sun-won urged caution to avoid giving Pyongyang validation.
Hong Min, senior researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification, said the launch demonstrates North Korea’s presence without directly threatening the summit. The country aims to show confidence and strengthen its nuclear stance.
The missile types fired Wednesday remain unconfirmed. Past launches from Chunghwa used KN-23 and KN-25 systems. North Korea is developing upgraded KN-23 variants and Hwasong-11 models with hypersonic glide warheads.
Experts warn that while the launch asserts strength, it may also complicate future talks with the United States. North Korea missiles signal strategic intent ahead of high-profile international meetings.
