SEOUL/TOKYO (Reuters) – North Korea launched two ballistic missiles into the sea off the east coast of the Korean peninsula on Sunday, South Korea’s military said.
Japanese Deputy Defense Minister Toshiro Inoue said the two North Korean missiles would land outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone.
Japan’s defense ministry said the missiles flew at an altitude of 550km and had a range of 250km.
Eno said there is still no news on the damage that could have been caused by the two missiles.
The launch of the two missiles comes days after North Korea tested a high-thrust solid-fuel engine that experts say would allow for faster and easier launch of ballistic missiles, as part of its attempt to develop a new strategic weapon and accelerate the pace of its nuclear and missile programs.
The official Korean Central News Agency reported on Friday that the test, overseen by leader Kim Jong Un, took place on Thursday at the Sohae satellite launch site, which is used to test rocket technology, including engines and space launch vehicles. .
North Korea conducted an unprecedented number of missile tests this year, including an ICBM capable of reaching the US mainland despite international embargoes and sanctions.
In November, North Korea tested an ICBM that Japanese officials said had sufficient range to reach the US mainland and landed just 200km from Japan.
On Friday, Japan unveiled a $320 billion plan to strengthen its military position to buy missiles capable of striking China and preparing Japan for an ongoing conflict. This military buildup is the largest since World War II.
