North Korea launched multiple short-range ballistic missiles into the Sea of Japan on Tuesday, according to South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). The missiles, fired from Kanggye in Jagang Province near the Chinese border, traveled approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles) before landing in international waters.
This was the second missile test by North Korea in 2025, following a January 6 launch of a hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile.
South Korea condemned the tests as a “clear provocation” that threatens regional peace and stability. The country held an emergency meeting and pledged to respond firmly to any further provocations.
Japan said the missiles did not land in its territory or cause damage. The country confirmed it is closely coordinating with the United States and South Korea regarding the incident. The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command also condemned the launches and urged North Korea to stop its destabilizing activities.
North Korea continues to develop advanced weapons, including intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of reaching the U.S. and shorter-range missiles designed to evade defenses. Leader Kim Jong Un has vowed to expand the country’s nuclear arsenal, criticizing U.S. alliances with South Korea and Japan as threats to North Korea’s security.
The launches come days before U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s return to office. Analysts believe North Korea may be attempting to draw attention to its military capabilities as Trump takes office.
While Trump held direct talks with Kim during his first term, experts see little chance of diplomacy resuming given Kim’s stronger position and ties with Russia.
