North Korea Launches Ballistic Missiles Amid Paused US-South Korea Drills
North Korea launched ballistic missiles toward the Yellow Sea as South Korea and the US began their joint military drills. This action follows an accidental bombing incident by South Korean jets that injured 29 people. North Korea condemned the joint exercises, warning of severe repercussions. The situation reaffirms the heightened military tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
On Monday, the South Korean military reported that North Korea had launched unidentified ballistic missiles. The missiles were detected around 1:50 p.m., originating from the Hwanghae region in North Korea and heading toward the Yellow Sea, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
This missile launch coincided with the commencement of South Korea and the United States’ annual joint military drills, termed the ‘Freedom Shield’ exercise. The joint exercises were temporarily put on hold due to an incident last week in which two KF-16 fighter jets accidentally dropped eight MK-82 bombs on a civilian area in Pocheon, resulting in injuries to 29 individuals, including 15 civilians.
Following the bombing incident, South Korea’s Air Force Chief of Staff General Lee Young-su publicly apologized, describing the mishap as an accident that “should never have happened, and one that should not recur,” according to Yonhap news agency.
In response to the U.S.-South Korea joint drills, North Korea has issued several statements condemning these exercises, warning that Seoul and Washington would face a “horrible” price for what it termed a “dangerous provocative act.” The situation remains tense with Pyongyang’s alertness towards these military maneuvers.
Earlier in February, North Korea conducted launches of strategic cruise missiles off its west coast to showcase its nuclear deterrent capabilities. In addition, leader Kim Jong-un has emphasized the importance of thorough preparedness for potential military engagement, including readiness to utilize its nuclear forces.
In summary, North Korea’s latest missile launch highlights ongoing tensions in the region amid joint military exercises conducted by South Korea and the United States. The recent accidental bombing incident has further complicated relations, prompting a public apology from South Korea’s Air Force leadership. North Korea’s strong rhetoric against these drills emphasizes its stance on military preparedness and serves as a warning to both Seoul and Washington.
Original Source: www.newsx.com
