North Korea fired several short-range ballistic missiles from the Wonsan area toward the sea off its east coast early Saturday, according to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff.
The missiles were launched around 5:20 a.m. local time and flew approximately 250 kilometers before landing in the waters, the JCS stated. South Korean and U.S. authorities are analyzing the exact specifications of the projectiles.
The launches came one day after the United States, South Korea, and Japan completed their five-day Freedom Edge joint military exercise in international waters. North Korea has condemned such drills as provocative threats to its security.
South Korea's presidential national security council urged North Korea to immediately halt the ballistic missile launches, describing them as a serious violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions. The military said it has strengthened its surveillance posture and is closely sharing information with the United States and Japan.
U.S. Pacific Command confirmed awareness of the launches and stated that the event does not pose an immediate threat to U.S. territory or allies. The command reaffirmed its commitment to the defense of the U.S. homeland and regional partners.
This marks the latest in a series of North Korean weapons tests this year. Last month, the regime launched more than 10 short-range ballistic missiles amid ongoing joint exercises between South Korea and the United States.
The incidents underscore persistent tensions on the Korean Peninsula as U.S. officials seek to maintain strong alliances while addressing North Korea's advancing nuclear and missile programs.
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