North Korea launched a ballistic missile into the Sea of Japan, South Korea said, days after it rejected an apology request over mines that injured three soldiers in the DMZ. The missile, which flew over 700 kilometers, is part of ongoing tensions between the two Koreas.
The launch follows weeks of military displays by North Korea, including tests of a hypersonic missile system and the commissioning of a new warship. Pyongyang's Kim Yo-jong dismissed Seoul's demand for an apology, calling it 'utterly pathetic' and vowing to cut ties with the South.
South Korea's national security council convened an emergency meeting to assess the situation, with officials warning of heightened monitoring of potential missile tests. The country has intensified its border security measures, including the deployment of mines and anti-tank barriers along the DMZ.
North Korea has denied responsibility for the mine incident that injured three South Korean soldiers, insisting the blasts were caused by mines laid on the South side of the border. The incident has led to a deterioration in diplomatic relations, with both sides vowing to resist engagement.