North Korea test-launches 2 ballistic missiles toward sea, Japan and South Korea say

North Korea conducted a test launch of two short-range ballistic missiles on Tuesday afternoon, according to officials from South Korea and Japan. The missile launch occurred shortly after Elbridge Colby, the U.S. under secretary of defense for policy, concluded his visit to South Korea and arrived in Japan.

Tensions between Seoul and Pyongyang have been escalating following North Korea’s accusations that South Korea violated its airspace with drones in January and September of last year. The missile launches were in clear violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions and raised concerns about the safety of the Japanese people, as stated by the Japanese Ministry of Defense.

The missiles were fired from the Pyongyang area and traveled approximately 350 kilometers before landing in the Sea of Japan. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed that Seoul’s intelligence authorities closely monitored the launch and shared information with Japan and the United States.

Japan lodged a strong protest against North Korea and condemned the provocative actions. Despite providing information to aircraft and ships in the area, no reports of damage have been confirmed at this time.

In response to the missile launches, both South Korea and the United States reaffirmed their commitment to a robust combined defense posture. South Korea’s military stated that they are prepared to respond overwhelmingly to any provocation from North Korea.

The Japanese government reported that the missiles likely landed near the North Korean coast in the Sea of Japan, also known as the East Sea. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and ensure the safety of all aircraft and ships in the area.

The escalating tensions in the region underscore the ongoing challenges posed by North Korea’s missile activities. The international community remains vigilant in addressing these threats and upholding the principles of peace and security in the region.