14.03.2026 11:42
South Korea announced that North Korea fired approximately 10 ballistic missiles into the East Sea. The missiles were reportedly launched from the Sunan area, and the Japanese government reported that the fired missiles fell outside the country's economic zone.
While the attacks by the US and Israel on Iran are increasing security concerns in the Middle East, activity in the Asia-Pacific region continues.
SOUTH KOREA ON ALERT
The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) announced that North Korea fired approximately 10 ballistic missiles towards the East Sea (Sea of Japan). It was reported that the missiles were launched from the Sunan area around 13:20 local time, stating, "Our military will continue to remain on alert while sharing information regarding the ballistic missile test with the US and Japan."
JAPAN'S GOVERNMENT ALSO ON ALERT
The Japanese government, which confirmed North Korea's latest test, announced that the missiles launched fell outside the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) according to initial assessments. Japan's Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi stated, "We have not received any information indicating that any of our aircraft or ships have been damaged." Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi instructed the government to provide accurate information to the public, confirm the safety of aircraft and ships, and be prepared for unforeseen circumstances.
INTERPRETED AS A "SHOW OF FORCE AGAINST EXERCISES" IN THE REGION
The test, which is North Korea's third ballistic missile test this year, is interpreted as a warning from Pyongyang to the Washington-Seoul alliance following the joint Freedom Shield exercises initiated by the US and South Korea in the region on Monday. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's sister, Kim Yo Jong, previously reacted strongly to the US and South Korea's exercises, warning that "displays of power near our state's sovereign territory could lead to unimaginably terrible consequences. It is advised that the enemies do not attempt to test our patience, will, and strength." Kim stated that they would convince their enemies of "how deadly their deterrence is."