Seoul: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reportedly overseen a test of strategic cruise missiles, as confirmed by the state media outlet KCNA on Monday. This development coincides with the commencement of South Korea and the United States' annual military drills, which North Korea perceives as rehearsals for potential warfare.

Kim's visit was focused on inspecting a navy fleet stationed on the east coast, where he personally supervised the missile test aboard a warship. However, the specific date of his visit was not provided in the KCNA report.

The primary objective of the missile launch was to validate the ship's combat capabilities and assess the performance of its missile system. Additionally, the test was aimed at enhancing the sailors' proficiency in executing attack missions during real-world combat scenarios. The results of the test were deemed successful, with the missile striking the target accurately and swiftly.

Also Read: Vi Unveils Exclusive Roaming Plans

Kim praised the ship's attributes, highlighting its agility, formidable striking power, and constant state of readiness to respond to sudden contingencies.

This missile test coincides with South Korea and the United States initiating their annual Ulchi Freedom Guardian exercises. These drills, conducted during the summer, are designed to bolster their collaborative responses to North Korea's ongoing nuclear and missile threats. Pyongyang, however, has consistently denounced these joint military exercises, characterizing them as provocative and akin to preparations for nuclear warfare.

Also Read:  New COVID-19 boosters are being urged on Americans by the Biden administration

The South Korean military has announced that this year's exercises will be conducted on an unprecedented scale, involving the deployment of tens of thousands of troops from both countries, as well as contingents from certain member states of the UN Command.

There is a sense of anticipation that North Korea could react to these exercises by conducting actions such as firing an intercontinental ballistic missile or other military demonstrations. This could potentially be seen as a response to both the ongoing military drills and last week's trilateral summit involving South Korea, the United States, and Japan.

Also Read:  China looks into citizen accused of CIA espionage

The situation underscores the delicate balance between military exercises, diplomatic overtures, and the potential for provocations in the region. The evolving dynamics between North Korea and its neighboring countries remain a focal point of international attention and concern.