North Korea Launches Ballistic Missiles Amid Paused US-South Korea Drills

North Korea has launched ballistic missiles into the Yellow Sea amid paused US-South Korea military drills, following an accident with South Korean fighter jets that injured civilians. The North criticizes these joint exercises and threatens repercussions, while South Korea’s Air Force Chief has apologized for the incident.

On Monday, North Korea conducted a ballistic missile launch, as confirmed by the South Korean military. The missiles were detected around 1:50 PM, originating from the Hwanghae region and heading towards the Yellow Sea, according to reports from Yonhap News Agency.

This missile launch occurred amid annual joint military exercises, dubbed ‘Freedom Shield,’ between South Korea and the United States. These drills were recently put on hold following an incident involving fighter jets accidentally bombing a civilian area, injuring 29 individuals, including 15 civilians.

In response to the bombing incident, South Korea’s Air Force Chief, General Lee Young-su, publically apologized, stating that such an accident “should never have happened and should not recur,” as reported by Yonhap.

North Korea has condemned the US-South Korea exercises, issuing multiple statements warning that the two nations will face a severe consequence for their “dangerous provocative act.” The situation escalated further after North Korea previously showcased its military capabilities, including the launch of strategic cruise missiles in February, demonstrating its nuclear deterrence capacity.

North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-un, has demanded increased readiness of the country’s nuclear forces, emphasizing preparedness for potential military engagement.

In summary, North Korea’s recent ballistic missile launch follows a temporary pause in joint US-South Korea military exercises due to an accidental bombing incident. The North has responded with threats against the US and South Korea, while the South Korean Air Force Chief has issued an apology. Tensions continue to escalate as North Korea asserts its military capabilities and readiness to employ nuclear deterrence.

Original Source: www.newsx.com