North Korea fired an unidentified missile into the East Sea on Tuesday, an action analysts view as a direct and anticipated response to the United States’ recent approval of South Korea’s plan to develop nuclear-powered submarines.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed the launch into the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi reported the missile landed outside Japan’s Exclusive Economic Zone. No immediate damage or injuries were reported.
The launch occurred roughly one week after U.S. President Donald Trump greenlit Seoul’s long-sought project. This project would allow South Korea to acquire atomic-powered submarines.
Experts had previously predicted a forceful reaction from Pyongyang to the South Korean defense advancement.
Ahn Chan-il, a researcher and defector, stated North Korea likely perceives the new submarines as a significant threat. He suggested the possibility of a sudden attack from the East Sea sparks anxiety in Pyongyang.
Ahn emphasized that such submarines could operate undetected in North Korean waters. They could monitor or intercept crucial weapons like submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) in advance.
Unlike diesel-electric counterparts, nuclear-powered submarines boast extended underwater endurance. They do not need to surface frequently to recharge batteries.
Analysts say developing this capability would mark a major leap for South Korea’s defense industry and navy. Only a few nations globally currently operate such advanced vessels.
North Korea has significantly increased its missile testing in recent years. This aims to enhance precision strike capabilities and challenge Washington and Seoul.
Analysts also suggest the tests could be to prove weapons for potential export to Russia.
Pyongyang’s posture has stiffened since the collapse of the 2019 summit between leader Kim Jong Un and then-U.S. President Trump. North Korea has since declared itself an “irreversible” nuclear state.
Kim Jong Un appears emboldened by Russia’s support. This is evident in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Despite Trump’s recent offer for a meeting, North Korea did not respond. Instead, Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui visited Russia.
There, she and President Vladimir Putin pledged to strengthen bilateral ties.
However, South Korean lawmaker Lee Sung-kwon recently offered a counterpoint. He indicated that Seoul’s intelligence agency believes Kim remains open to dialogue with the U.S.
Lee suggested Kim would seek contact under suitable conditions. He cited “many signs” of behind-the-scenes preparations for potential talks.