North Korea launched a ballistic missile off its eastern coast on Friday, just days after U.S. War Secretary Pete Hegseth concluded a visit to South Korea focused on deterring Pyongyang and strengthening the alliance between the two countries.
Seoul reported that the suspected short-range missile was fired from an inland area around the western county of Taekwan toward the East Sea, traveling approximately 435 miles. The launch was confirmed by Reuters and The Associated Press, citing military officials in Seoul and Tokyo.
No injuries or damage were reported, officials stated. Seoul’s military added that it had detected signs of preparations before the launch and was monitoring additional activity in the area, according to The Associated Press.
It has been reported that North Korea has conducted several missile launches in recent weeks, including systems it claims are “cutting-edge” strategic weapons.
During his three-day visit to South Korea on November 4, Hegseth spoke with journalists after annual security talks with South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back in Seoul, stating he was “greatly encouraged” by Seoul’s dedication to boosting defense spending and investing more substantially in its military capabilities. He affirmed that both allies concurred these investments would bolster South Korea’s capacity to spearhead conventional deterrence against its northern adversary.
Hegseth also stated that President ’s decision to support South Korea’s plans to build nuclear-powered submarines was driven by his desire to have strong allies. “And because Korea has been a model ally, he’s open to opportunities like that, that ensure they have the best capabilities in their own defense and alongside us as allies,” he commented.
The United States and South Korea have maintained close military coordination amidst Pyongyang’s accelerated weapons testing program. Hegseth’s visit was intended to reaffirm U.S. commitment to the alliance and underscore deterrence against North Korea. His comments in Seoul reiterated earlier statements that the alliance would continue to focus on deterring North Korea.
When asked whether the alliance might be used in conflicts beyond the peninsula, including with China, Hegseth stated that safeguarding against nuclear-armed North Korea remains the alliance’s principal objective. “But there’s no doubt that flexibility for regional contingency is something we would take a look at,” he informed reporters.
Friday’s launch underscores the precarious security situation on the peninsula and highlights persistent tensions as North Korea continues to expand its missile capabilities. Both Seoul and Tokyo affirmed they are analyzing the launch in coordination with the United States.
Reuters and The Associated Press provided contributions to this report.