North Korea announced on Thursday that it had successfully conducted its inaugural flight test of the Pulhwasal-3-31 cruise missile. This development comes as the reclusive nation continues to bolster its military capabilities amidst rising tensions with the United States and neighboring countries. South Korea’s military had detected the North firing several cruise missiles into waters off its western coast a day earlier, marking the second known launch event of the year for North Korea.
The official Korean Central News Agency reported that the Pulhwasal-3-31 missile is currently in the developmental phase, and the recent launch was stated not to pose a threat to neighboring nations. However, the term “strategic” used to describe the missile implies an intent to arm it with nuclear capabilities. North Korea’s cruise missiles are part of an expanding arsenal designed to overwhelm missile defenses in South Korea and Japan, complementing its array of ballistic missiles.
The recent launch follows North Korea’s test-firing of its first solid-fuel intermediate-range ballistic missile on January 14, indicating its efforts to advance its weapons targeting U.S. military bases in Japan and Guam. While cruise missile activities are not directly prohibited by U.N. sanctions, experts emphasize their potential threat to South Korea and Japan due to their capability to evade radar detection. North Korea claims that these missiles are nuclear-capable, with an estimated range of up to 1,240 miles.
The heightened military activities by North Korea have contributed to increased tensions in the region, with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un accelerating weapons development and issuing provocative threats of nuclear conflict. The United States, South Korea, and Japan have responded by expanding joint military exercises, which North Korea denounces as invasion rehearsals. Analysts express concerns that Kim might escalate pressure in an election year in both the United States and South Korea.
In a separate development, Kim criticized officials for failures in providing basic necessities to people in less developed areas during a two-day ruling party meeting. Satellite images suggest the removal of a monument in Pyongyang symbolizing reconciliation with South Korea, reflecting a shift in North Korea’s stance towards reunification.
As North Korea continues to flex its military muscle, the international community closely watches the evolving situation and the potential implications for regional stability.
