Seoul, October 6: North Korea has launched a ballistic missile eastward, marking its first weapons test in five months. The launch comes just days before former U.S. President Donald Trump and other world leaders are set to visit South Korea for the Asia-Pacific Economic Conference (APEC).
According to South Korea’s military, the missile landed in nearby waters after traveling eastward, though no further details have been shared about its range, altitude, or type.
Security analysts believe the move is a strategic signal from Kim Jong Un, aimed at showing strength and leverage ahead of possible diplomatic talks. The timing suggests Pyongyang wants to remind the world of its growing nuclear and missile capabilities.
The test follows North Korea’s recent military parade, where Kim unveiled the Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM)—reportedly capable of carrying multiple nuclear warheads that could reach targets in the United States.
Regional tensions have risen sharply as neighboring countries, including Japan and South Korea, hold emergency security meetings. The U.S. has condemned the launch, calling it a “provocative act” that threatens regional stability.
This latest missile test underscores North Korea’s determination to advance its long-range missile program despite international sanctions and diplomatic pressure.
