Status: 09/28/2022 2:37 p.m
A day before US Vice President Harris’ visit to South Korea, North Korea fired two short-range ballistic missiles. This is likely to further exacerbate tensions in the region.
North Korea has launched two short-range ballistic missiles towards the Sea of Japan (East Sea). This was reported by the South Korean news agency Yonhap, citing the military. The Japanese coast guard also reported suspicion that there had been a North Korean missile test.
Missile tests banned by UN resolution
Since 2006, UN resolutions have banned North Korea from testing any type of ballistic missile, which, depending on the design, can also carry one or more nuclear warheads. These are usually surface-to-surface missiles. North Korea is to be prevented from financing its nuclear weapons and missile programs.
Missile test a day before Harris visit
Today’s missile test came just a day before US Vice President Kamala Harris is expected in the South Korean capital Seoul – and three days after the last. Because the North Korean military had already fired rockets on Sunday.
Sunday’s missile test is part of an “illegal weapons program that threatens regional stability and violates several UN Security Council resolutions,” Harris said.
Harris wants to meet with South Korea’s President
The armed forces of South Korea and the United States had launched a joint military exercise off South Korea’s east coast in the past few days. Harris plans to meet with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol tomorrow in Seoul. The politician also wants to visit the heavily fortified border between South and North Korea.
Tensions in the region have risen following a series of nuclear-capable missile tests by North Korea this year. In addition, the country is reportedly preparing to launch a submarine ballistic missile.