Overview
- South Korea said at least one projectile was launched toward the Sea of Japan, while Japan reported two presumed ballistic missiles, the month’s second such launch.
- KCNA reported Kim Jong-un oversaw a large-calibre multiple-rocket launcher firing four projectiles that struck a target about 358 kilometers away.
- Japan’s Defense Ministry, via Jiji Press, said two projectiles fell outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone.
- Kim said the upcoming Workers’ Party congress will clarify the next step for the country’s nuclear deterrent, and he has ordered missile production expanded and modernized.
- Analysts assess the tests aim to sharpen precision strikes, deter the United States and South Korea, and validate systems for potential export to Russia.