Tokyo erupted in outrage on Tuesday after North Korea launched two ballistic missiles toward the Sea of Japan. Japanese defense officials confirmed the launches, prompting immediate diplomatic backlash from Tokyo.
The missiles streaked across the sky, one reaching an altitude of approximately 80 kilometers and traveling about 350 kilometers before splashing down. Launched from north of Pyongyang around 3:50 PM local time, they fell outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone, according to government assessments.
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba swiftly directed agencies to gather comprehensive data and safeguard maritime and air traffic. No damage or injuries have been reported so far, but the incident has heightened regional tensions.
South Korea’s military corroborated the details, noting the projectiles’ trajectory over the contentious waters. In response, Japan’s Foreign Ministry issued a stern condemnation, labeling the act as a grave threat to peace.
Meanwhile, U.S. Forces Korea reaffirmed its ironclad commitment to defending allies amid the provocation. ‘We are aware of the launches and coordinating closely with partners,’ a spokesperson stated, adding that no immediate danger loomed for American assets or personnel.
This escalation follows North Korea’s December tests of long-range strategic cruise missiles, overseen by Kim Jong Un. During those drills in the Yellow Sea, the weapons flew for over 10,000 seconds, hitting targets with precision to showcase retaliatory prowess.
Kim had inspected plans for a massive 8,700-ton nuclear-powered guided missile submarine, vowing relentless expansion of nuclear forces. Analysts see these moves as muscle-flexing amid stalled denuclearization talks and ongoing U.S.-South Korea joint exercises.
As the international community watches warily, Japan has bolstered missile defenses and called for united action against Pyongyang’s provocations. The Sea of Japan remains a flashpoint, underscoring the fragility of Northeast Asian security.