North Korea has fired a ballistic missile in the direction of Japan, according to South Korean officials. The missile, launched from North Korea’s eastern coast, was confirmed by Japan’s Ministry of Defence. Details on the missile’s range were not immediately provided.
Tensions between North and South Korea have escalated recently, with North Korea accusing South Korea of sending surveillance drones across the border, prompting threats of retaliation. South Korea denied these allegations and initiated an investigation into the potential involvement of civilians in operating the drones.
Earlier this month, North Korea announced successful test flights of hypersonic missiles, with Kim Jong-un overseeing the launches to strengthen the country’s nuclear war deterrent. The missile launch on Tuesday coincided with North Korea’s upcoming ruling party congress, a significant event to set new political and economic priorities, marking the first such congress in five years.
In a related development, Kim Jong-un removed a vice premier responsible for a factory modernization project, citing inefficiency and irresponsibility leading to economic losses. The Korean Central News Agency reported that Kim Jong-un criticized the vice premier for causing disruptions and failing to take responsibility for his actions, likening him to a goat trying to pull an ox cart.
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