N. Korea Launches First Ballistic Missile in Two Months Amid Tensions

In a significant development, North Korea fired its first ballistic missile in two months, igniting tensions while US Secretary of State Antony Blinken engages in talks in South Korea.

North Korea has launched what is believed to be an intermediate-range ballistic missile towards its eastern waters, marking the regime's first missile activity in two months, according to South Korea's military. The missile was confirmed to have fallen into the sea around noon local time (03:00 GMT), as Japan's defense ministry reported on the matter.

This missile launch coincides with the visit of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Seoul, where he is holding crucial discussions with South Korea's key leaders. Blinken emphasized the importance of the alliance between the United States and South Korea, calling it a "cornerstone of peace and stability on the Korean peninsula."

In the wake of the launch, South Korea's military has ramped up its surveillance regarding potential future missile tests from the North and is closely coordinating with the US and Japan to gather intelligence related to today's event.

Additionally, this launch occurs against a backdrop of political unrest within South Korea, sparked by the impeachment proceedings against suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol. The controversy stems from a martial law attempt he initiated in December, which has resulted in his loss of presidential powers. As lawmakers vote on his impeachment, President Yoon faces possible arrest, and the constitutional court is deliberating on his potential removal from office.

In a previous display of provocation, North Korea dismissed Yoon's martial law declaration as an "insane act" and accused him of exhibiting dictatorial tendencies against his own people. The international community broadly characterizes North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as a dictator, perpetuating a regime that has been in the hands of his family for decades, heavily influencing a culture of personality surrounding the leader.

The last recorded missile launches by Pyongyang occurred in November, shortly before the US presidential elections, when at least seven short-range ballistic missiles were launched off the eastern coast. This event followed US military exercises that included long-range bombers and collaborative drills with South Korea and Japan, provoking criticism from Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo Jong.