North Korea Launches Suspected Short-Range Ballistic Missiles Amid Heightened Tensions

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North Korea has conducted a launch of several suspected short-range ballistic missiles, according to South Korea's military. The incident occurred on Tuesday morning at approximately 09:30 am local time, shortly after Pyongyang had tested a new hypersonic missile system the previous week.

Seoul confirmed that multiple projectiles were detected in the East Sea, also known as the Sea of Japan. This missile launch coincided with diplomatic discussions between Japan's Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya and South Korean officials, as both nations look to bolster their ties in anticipation of the return of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump.

South Korea's military stated that it remains in a state of "full readiness" and is collaborating with the United States and Japan to monitor the situation closely. The latest missile launch appears to send a strategic message to the incoming U.S. administration, possibly aiming to exert pressure as tensions in the region escalate.

Last week's launch of a hypersonic missile was characterized by North Korean state media as a significant advancement in military technology, highlighting a "new compound of carbon fiber" in the missile's construction that could enhance its range and capabilities. Experts express concern that these advancements put North Korea's missile technology on par with that of Russia and China.

In response to North Korea's recent military activities, South Korea has demonstrated its resolve by advancing its own military exercises, and intelligence reports suggest that North Korea has been involved in supporting Russian military efforts in Ukraine.

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