North Korea fires several short-range ballistic missiles toward sea, South Korea says

On Saturday, North Korea launched several short-range ballistic missiles from the Wonsan area towards the sea off its eastern coast, according to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff. The missiles were fired at approximately 5:20 a.m. (2020 GMT on Friday) and traveled about 250 km (155 miles). South Korean and U.S. authorities are currently examining the missiles' specifications.

Intelligence agencies from South Korea, the U.S., and Japan tracked and shared information on the launches from the beginning, with details also shared with Japan. South Korea's military is maintaining a high state of readiness to respond to any provocation, as stated by the JCS. Following the launch, a national security meeting involving the defense ministry, JCS, and other agencies was convened by the presidential office, urging North Korea to cease missile launches, which are deemed a serious violation of U.N.

Security Council resolutions. The U.S. Pacific Command confirmed awareness of the launches and is consulting closely with allies and partners, stating that the missiles do not pose an immediate threat to U.S. personnel, territory, or allies. This launch followed a series of joint military exercises between South Korea, Japan, and the U.S. the previous day, and a recent decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to reduce military drills with North Korea, expressing hope for a later meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.