North Korea launched a ballistic missile on Monday, coinciding with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to South Korea for the Summit for Democracy. The missile launch occurred shortly after the conclusion of a major joint military exercise between the US and South Korea, which North Korea vehemently opposes.
The Joint Chiefs of Staff in South Korea confirmed the missile launch, stating that North Korea fired an unspecified ballistic missile toward the East Sea, also known as the Sea of Japan. Japan also confirmed the launch, indicating that the objects appeared to have already fallen.
This missile test marks North Korea's second of the year, following a previous launch in January. Pyongyang's actions are often viewed as provocative responses to joint military exercises conducted by South Korea and the US, which North Korea considers rehearsals for invasion.
The missile launch comes amid heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula, with Pyongyang recently warning of consequences over the joint military exercises. North Korea has also escalated its rhetoric, declaring South Korea as its "principal enemy" and threatening war over perceived territorial infringements.
During his visit to South Korea, Blinken is expected to meet with top officials to discuss enhancing the alliance between the US and South Korea, including strategies to strengthen deterrence against North Korean threats. The Summit for Democracy, hosted by South Korea, aims to bring together government officials, NGOs, and civil society members to address democratic challenges globally.
Following his visit to South Korea, Blinken will travel to the Philippines to reaffirm the US's commitment to its ally and bolster regional ties as part of efforts to counterbalance China's influence in the Asia-Pacific region.
