Seoul: Just days before world leaders are set to gather in South Korea for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, North Korea has once again drawn international concern by firing multiple short-range ballistic missiles, according to South Korea’s military.
The missiles were launched early Wednesday from an area near Pyongyang, flying approximately 350 kilometers toward the northeast, military officials said. The projectiles are believed to have landed inland, with no immediate threat reported to neighboring nations.
This marks North Korea’s first ballistic missile test since May and comes at a critical diplomatic moment, with U.S. President Donald Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung preparing to meet on the sidelines of the APEC summit next week. Chinese President Xi Jinping is also expected to attend, adding to the high-profile nature of the gathering.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff reported they had been monitoring movement in the launch area prior to the missile activity and were able to track the trajectory of the missiles shortly after they were fired. Officials emphasized that intelligence is being closely shared with allies, including the United States and Japan.
Following the launch, President Lee convened an emergency national security meeting at the presidential office, receiving a full briefing on the situation from top defense and intelligence officials.
Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi also addressed the incident, stating that while there was no immediate threat to Japanese territory, Tokyo was coordinating closely with Washington and Seoul to monitor the situation and maintain regional security.
North Korea has a history of conducting missile tests ahead of major international events, often seen as strategic posturing to assert influence or extract diplomatic leverage. Despite being under heavy United Nations sanctions, Pyongyang has continued to expand its missile program, including the development of long-range capabilities.
Earlier this month, North Korea showcased one of its latest intercontinental ballistic missiles during a military parade attended by a high-ranking Chinese official, signaling the regime’s intent to display strength amid ongoing geopolitical friction.
Analysts say the latest test may be aimed at reminding the international community of North Korea’s growing weapons capabilities, even as global attention shifts to the upcoming diplomatic summit.
With key leaders gathering in Seoul in the coming days, the launch is likely to intensify discussions around security and stability on the Korean Peninsula.
