In this photo provided by the North Korean government, leader Kim Jong Un, center right, and his daughter, center left, attend a live-fire test of multiple rocket launch systems at an undisclosed location in North Korea. (Photo: AP) Kim Jong Un oversaw a live-fire test of multiple rocket launch systems while appearing with his teenage daughter, in the latest weapons activity by North Korea as tensions rise during US-South Korean military exercises, according to the AP.
North Korea’s state news agency, the Korean Central News Agency, said Kim observed the drill on Saturday near the country’s east coast. The test involved twelve 600mm rocket launchers firing into the sea.
South Korea’s military said it detected about 10 ballistic missiles launched from the North’s capital region toward eastern waters. South Korea’s National Security Council described the launches as a provocation and said they violated United Nations Security Council resolutions banning ballistic missile activity by North Korea.
The launches come as the United States and South Korea conduct their annual joint military exercise, which North Korea has repeatedly criticized.
What did Kim Jong Un say about the weapons test?
KCNA reported that Kim said the drill was intended to demonstrate the power and range of the weapon system.
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According to the agency, the exercise would expose enemies within a radius of about 420 kilometers and give them “a deep understanding of the destructive power of the tactical nuclear weapon.”
“If this weapon is used, the opponent’s military infrastructure within its strike range will never be able to survive,” Kim said, according to KCNA.
Photos published by state media showed Kim standing near large launch trucks and watching the rockets launch. His daughter, Kim Ju Ae, was seen walking alongside him and watching the test.
She has appeared with her father at several missile tests, military parades and other public events since late 2022. Her repeated appearances have led some observers to suggest that she could be presented as a possible future leader.
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What’s behind the latest releases?
Experts say North Korea’s large rocket-launching systems fall between artillery weapons and ballistic missiles because they generate their own thrust and can be guided during flight.
North Korea has said some of these systems are capable of carrying nuclear warheads.
The launches also occur during the annual Freedom Shield drills, which are computer-based command post exercises that will continue through March 19.
North Korea often responds to these exercises with missile launches and forceful statements, arguing that the exercises are preparation for an invasion.
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The latest test highlights continued tensions on the Korean Peninsula, where military activity and weapons development remain central to the standoff between North Korea and the United States and its regional allies.
