N Korea launches ballistic missile as S Korea, US plan military drills

South Korea's military detected a ballistic missile launched from North Korea's Wonsan area on August 12, 2021, at around 6 a.m., flying over 700 kilometers towards the East Sea. This marks the second such launch in less than a week, following another short-range missile fired on August 6. The missile's range suggests it was likely a short-range ballistic missile, with North Korea possessing KN-23 missiles that have a maximum range of 700-800 kilometers.

This launch coincides with the start of annual U.S.-South Korea military drills, which Pyongyang strongly opposes, labeling them as war rehearsals. In contrast to previous launches, North Korea has not publicly announced this one, leading to speculation that it may have failed, tested a new missile type, or been a shorter-range missile fired at a reduced range.

Analysts believe the launch could be a test to improve North Korea's missile capabilities, possibly related to upgrading Hwasong-11 missiles designed to carry tactical nuclear warheads. South Korean and U.S. intelligence agencies tracked the missile's launch and shared information with Japan, maintaining a high state of readiness.

The National Security Office of South Korea expressed concerns over the ongoing missile launches, urging North Korea to halt such activities that violate U.N. Security Council resolutions. An emergency meeting was convened to assess the launch's impact on security and determine necessary measures. The U.S. Pacific Command assessed the latest missile launch as not posing an immediate threat to U.S. territory and allies. This marks the 11th missile launch by North Korea this year.