(2nd LD) N. Korea fires barrage of short-range ballistic missiles toward East Sea: S. Korean military

SEOUL, Aug. 20 - North Korea launched a series of short-range ballistic missiles towards the East Sea on Thursday, according to South Korea's military. The Joint Chiefs of Staff reported detecting the missile launch from Pyongyang around 5 p.m. However, specifics of the incident were not immediately disclosed. In response to the potential for further launches, the military has intensified surveillance and vigilance while maintaining close communication with the United States and Japan, who are both on high alert.

This follows a similar missile launch on August 12. After the launch, the presidential national security office convened a meeting attended by defense ministry and Joint Chiefs of Staff officials to review South Korea's reaction and evaluate the impact on national security. With the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise ongoing, the office highlighted the importance of maintaining a high state of readiness and urged Pyongyang to cease these provocations, which violate UN Security Council resolutions.

This launch occurred as South Korea and the United States are currently conducting combined military exercises, which have been scaled down due to President Donald Trump's directive to reduce drill frequency and scope. Pyongyang has vehemently condemned the drills, labeling them as rehearsals for invasion, and typically responds with additional weapon tests.

Kim Yo-jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, stated in a statement on Wednesday that North Korea has no interest in reducing the military drills conducted by its allies, deeming them "unworthy of comment."