North Korea issued a missile test warning after launching several sea-to-surface cruise missiles in the Yellow Sea. The launch occurred days before US President Donald Trump’s visit to South Korea for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings. The move has raised security concerns across the region.
State media reported that the missiles were launched vertically from warships and flew for more than two hours. They followed a planned route before striking their target. Officials said the missiles were improved models designed for ship-based systems. They did not reveal exact flight distances or technical details.
The missile test warning comes as Trump expressed interest in meeting North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Seoul from October 29 to 30. Despite the offer, Pyongyang has remained silent, suggesting little interest in restarting talks.
Pak Jong-chon, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission, supervised the test. He described it as a crucial step to reinforce North Korea’s nuclear deterrence. Pak urged continued efforts to strengthen the country’s combat readiness and enhance nuclear capabilities. He said regular testing proves reliability and demonstrates strategic strength.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff detected the launch at 3 p.m. Tuesday. The military maintains full readiness with US forces to counter any provocation. Intelligence agencies from both countries are analyzing data to confirm the missile type and flight range.
Analysts believe the weapons belong to the Hwasal series, first displayed at Pyongyang’s defense exhibition earlier this month. The Hwasal-1 and Hwasal-2 models, tested in past years, can reportedly travel between 1,500 and 2,000 kilometers. Missiles fired from the Yellow Sea could reach both Japan and China.
Experts view the missile test warning as a message that Pyongyang will continue advancing its nuclear weapons program. The launch was also the country’s first cruise missile firing in five months, highlighting its focus on maritime strike capabilities.
Analysts warn the timing signals a strategy to project strength before major global events. They believe chances for US-North Korea dialogue remain low as the regime prioritizes military advancement over diplomacy.
The missile test warning underscores growing instability in the region and renews pressure on security discussions across Northeast Asia.
