North Korea launches flurry of short-range ballistic missiles

Published: Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 7:22 am

North Korea Fires Missiles, Raising Tensions and Fueling Export Concerns

SEOUL, May 8 (UPI) – North Korea has once again rattled the region, launching a flurry of short-range ballistic missiles into the sea between Korea and Japan on Thursday morning. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) confirmed the launch, stating that multiple missiles of various types were fired from the Wonsan area on the east coast of the Korean Peninsula between 8:10 a.m. and 9:20 a.m. KST. The missiles traveled approximately 500 miles before landing in the East Sea.

South Korean officials are characterizing the launch as a potential weapons test, possibly linked to arms exports to Russia. The JCS spokesman, Col. Lee Sung-jun, suggested the test could be a "performance check" or an evaluation of flight stability for potential exports. This comes amid growing concerns about North Korea's support for Russia's war in Ukraine.

The launch follows a recent visit by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to a munitions factory, where he urged increased production of artillery shells. Both Seoul and Washington have accused North Korea of supplying missiles, artillery, and soldiers to Russia in exchange for financial support and advanced military technology. This is further compounded by reports that North Korean troops are fighting in the Kursk region, with significant casualties.

Thursday's missile launch marks the first such activity in nearly two months, raising concerns about escalating tensions in the region. The South Korean and U.S. militaries are closely monitoring the situation and maintaining a strong defense posture.

BNN's Perspective: While North Korea's actions are undeniably provocative and destabilizing, it's crucial to maintain a balanced approach. The international community must condemn these actions while also seeking diplomatic solutions to de-escalate tensions and prevent further conflict. A focus on dialogue and verifiable arms control measures is essential to ensure regional stability.

Keywords: North Korea, missile launch, short-range ballistic missiles, Wonsan, East Sea, Russia, arms exports, Kim Jong Un, Ukraine, South Korea, Japan, military drills, Korean Peninsula, Joint Chiefs of Staff, Col. Lee Sung-jun, provocative act, regional stability

Full Story