The self-declared nuclear power North Korea has apparently failed to launch a satellite for military purposes. According to state media, it was to be launched into space using a multi-stage launch vehicle. However, after the first stage separated, the satellite crashed into the sea between the Korean peninsula and China, South Korea’s Yonhap news agency reports. After checking the sources of error, another start should take place as soon as possible.
The general staff in South Korea spoke of an “abnormal flight” of the North Korean missile, which took off from the west coast of the neighboring country in the morning (local time). The rocket launch briefly caused unrest in the metropolis of Seoul: alarm sirens could be heard in the South Korean capital, and text messages called on residents to prepare for an evacuation. The alert was later withdrawn.
North Korea had announced the launch of a reconnaissance satellite a few days ago. It was said at the time that this would take place between May 31 and June 11. South Korea and the United States interpreted this as a presumed upcoming test of a missile with ballistic missile technology. Both countries protested against the project. United Nations resolutions prohibit North Korea from launching ballistic missiles because, depending on the design, they can also be equipped with a nuclear warhead.
After a series of missile tests last year, North Korea has again tested nuclear-capable missiles several times this year. North Korea, which it says is nuclear-armed, has launched an unprecedented number of missiles in the past year, including ICBMs that can reach the United States. At the same time, the closed country has resumed preparations for its first nuclear test since 2017.