South Korea condemns North Korea’s firing of ballistic missiles

South Korea criticised North Korea following the latter’s launch of 10 short-range ballistic missiles from Pyongyang Thursday, August 20, toward the eastern waters of the peninsula.

The South Korean presidential office called for complete military readiness following the launch, stating that such military activities from their Northern counterparts endanger the stability in the region.

“The ballistic missile launch is a grave act that violates U.N. Security Council resolutions,” a statement from the South Korean government reads.

Pyongyang rattles its sabre

According to South Korean defence minister Ahn Gyu-back, they believed the missiles were fired from 600 mm multiple rocket launchers.

The missiles flew about 185 miles toward North Korea’s east coast.

North Korea said the 600 mm system, also known as KN-25, is capable of delivering tactical nuclear payloads. Ahn also told South Korean lawmakers that Pyongyang reportedly possesses 80 to 120 nuclear warheads.

The Japanese defence ministry also issued a warning about the missile launch, advising its local coast guard vessels to be on alert for potential debris falling into the sea.

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Shorter US-South Korea drills

The 11-day Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises between Washington and Seoul were cut short to half their duration following US President Donald Trump’s order to “substantially reduce” American participation in the annual military drills.

In a social media post, Trump cited South Korea’s reluctance to support him in his war against Iran. He also mentioned Washington’s stable relationship with North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un.

“Therefore, and based on the fact that it is too late to cancel, I have instructed Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to substantially reduce the Joint Military Exercises!” the US Commander-in-Chief wrote.

However, Kim’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, said the military exercises remain provocative despite Trump’s order to scale back American presence in the drills.

“The provocative, aggressive nature of the drills won’t change even though their duration and size were reduced,” said Kim.

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