North Korea tested its new “Pulhwasal-3-31” strategic cruise missiles, aiming to enhance its arsenal.
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on the test after South Korea’s military disclosed it had conducted missile tests in the Yellow Sea. KCNA assured that the test posed no threat to neighbouring countries or regional security.
The missile bureau and defence science institutes regularly update and test their systems, as stated by KCNA. This follows North Korea’s recent launch of a solid-fuel missile with a hypersonic warhead into the East Sea. Additionally, Pyongyang tested an underwater nuclear weapon system, citing joint naval exercises by the US, South Korea, and Japan as provocation.
Pyongyang also tested a purported underwater nuclear attack drone last year. Tensions between North and South Korea have worsened, with both sides increasing security measures and conducting military drills.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un declared South Korea the primary enemy, abandoned reunification efforts, and threatened war. Seoul’s defence minister warned of regime-ending consequences for Pyongyang if war were to start. Shin Won-sik emphasized South Korea’s readiness to respond decisively.
Kim Jong Un also dismissed the Northern Limit Line as a maritime border and suggested constitutional changes for potential wartime advances into Seoul, according to KCNA.
