South Korea stated that it is closely coordinating with the United States regarding North Korea’s missile launches. This comes after criticism arose over South Korea’s delayed announcement of North Korea’s recent launch. The North’s state media reported that North Korea conducted tests of a new multiple rocket launcher and other key weapons, overseen by its leader Kim Jong-un.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) did not provide details of the latest launch on the day of the test-firing, leading to questions about whether the information was withheld or if the weapons launch was not detected in time. There were suggestions that the US limiting information-sharing with South Korea on North Korea’s military movements might have hindered Seoul’s ability to track them promptly.
A local media outlet raised concerns about the US’ decision affecting South Korea’s real-time monitoring of North Korea’s military activities. Col. Lee Kyung-ho, deputy defense ministry spokesperson, emphasized that South Korea and the US detected and tracked multiple projectiles launched by North Korea between 7:27 a.m. and 8:20 a.m. on June 25. The two countries are maintaining close coordination for all contingencies.
Lee classified the projectiles as “tactical weapons systems,” with detailed specifications pending after a comprehensive analysis. He assured that the bilateral information-sharing and coordination mechanism with the US remains seamless, and South Korea’s military is on a 24-hour readiness posture. Lee urged people not to misinterpret the dedication of South Korean and US service members in defending the Republic of Korea and ensuring citizens’ safety.
The JCS typically discloses North Korea’s missile launches when they involve test-firing of ballistic missiles in violation of UN Security Council resolutions. North Korea’s recent tests included an upgraded version of the 240mm-caliber 24-tubular multiple rocket launcher system, “special mission” warheads for tactical ballistic missiles, and extended-range shells for a 155mm self-propelled howitzer, according to North Korean state media.
