Ballistic missile tests by North Korea trigger security alert in South Korea, Japan

North Korea on Sunday launched multiple short-range ballistic missiles toward the sea from its Sinpo region , South Korea’s military said, in a move that further heightened tensions in the Korean Peninsula.

The missiles reportedly flew about 140 kilometres each toward North Korea’s eastern waters. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said it is maintaining full readiness to respond to any provocation and is closely coordinating with the United States and Japan.

The launches came just days after the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) warned of a “ very serious increase ” in North Korea’s nuclear weapons development activities.

South Korean officials convened an emergency National Security Council meeting, expressing concern over Pyongyang’s repeated missile tests and urging an immediate halt.

Japan’s Defence Ministry strongly condemned the launches, calling them a violation of UN Security Council resolutions , while the United States Indo-Pacific Command said it remains committed to defending its allies and the US homeland.

Military officials in South Korea and Japan are analysing whether the missiles were launched from a submarine or land-based platform , or both. The Sinpo region, where the launches originated, is known for its submarine shipbuilding facilities , raising the possibility of underwater launch capability. If confirmed, it would mark North Korea’s first submarine-launched ballistic missile test in four years.

The launches come amid a series of escalating weapons tests by North Korea this year, including missile engine upgrades and naval weapons trials. Analysts believe the activities are aimed at strengthening Pyongyang’s leverage in future diplomatic negotiations with the United States.

The development adds to growing concerns over North Korea’s expanding missile and nuclear capabilities and their implications for regional security in East Asia.