North Korea Launches Rockets into Yellow Sea Following US, South Korea, Japan Drills

North Korea fired over ten rockets into the Yellow Sea after South Korea’s joint air drills with the U.S. and Japan. The North launched these from an upgraded rocket launcher near Pyongyang. Tensions are rising amid North Korea’s growing ties with Russia, prompting concerns about enhanced military capabilities.

Following joint air drills conducted by South Korea, the United States, and Japan, North Korea launched over ten rounds of rockets into the Yellow Sea early Thursday morning. The military action originated from Sunan, near Pyongyang, as reported by South Korean defense officials. North Korea’s military uses short-range ballistic missiles, which are classified under UN Security Council restrictions that forbid such activities.

The rockets were fired from an upgraded 240-millimeter multiple rocket launcher, first unveiled last year, and it’s believed capable of targeting the densely populated areas in South Korea, including the Seoul metropolitan region. A South Korean military representative stated, “The projectiles, believed to be multiple launch rockets, flew tens of kilometers before falling into the Yellow Sea.” Ongoing monitoring by South Korean and U.S. intelligence services is currently taking place.

Earlier on Wednesday, this joint military exercise marked the first trilateral air defense drill authorized under newly elected President Lee Jae Myung. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula have notably heightened recently as North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Un, develops closer ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Reports indicate that North Korea has dispatched arms and potentially thousands of troops to aid Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine. South Korean authorities are concerned that such actions may lead to North Korea receiving military technology and economic support in exchange.

In addition, Kim Jong Un has reported advancements in North Korea’s missile and nuclear capabilities. Notably, two new 5,000-ton naval destroyers have been successfully constructed this year, with Kim referring to these vessels as “convincing proof of the rapid transformation of our Navy.” The developments suggest a potential escalation in regional military capabilities.

In the wake of these events, vigilance remains critically important for South Korean and allied forces in the region, as the implications of North Korea’s military enhancements could lead to significant shifts in the balance of power.

In summary, North Korea’s recent rocket launches into the Yellow Sea in response to joint military exercises by South Korea, the U.S., and Japan highlight escalating tensions. Moreover, North Korea’s alignment with Russia and its ongoing military advancements underscore increasing security challenges in the region. Vigilance from South Korea and allied forces is paramount as these developments unfold.

Original Source: www.livemint.com