North Korea test-fired several cruise missiles on the eve of US President Donald Trump's visit to South Korea.
According to Al Jazeera, North Korean state media on Wednesday, October 29, announced that the country launched sea-to-surface cruise missiles in the Yellow Sea.
The official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that it took more than two hours for the missiles to hit the accurate target in the western waters.
Top military official Pak Jong Chon, who oversaw the test flights, called it an âimportant successâ for the ânuclear forcesâ of North Korea to prevent war.
He further added that the objective of the test was to assess âthe reliability of different strategic offensive means and impress their abilities upon the enemies. It is our responsible mission and duty to ceaselessly toughen the nuclear combat posture.â
Meanwhile, South Koreaâs joint chief said that they are analysing the weapons along with the US and are ready for a âdominant responseâ against any provocation.
This came hours before the US president began his South Korea visit to meet President Lee Jae-myung, as the country is hosting Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings this year.
Trump is also expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea as the trade tension between the two largest economies in the world continues.
The Republican president also hinted about meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. However, South Korean officials suggested that the Trump-Kim meeting is unlikely.
