Initially, it was only reported by South Korean observers, but now the regime in North Korea has confirmed another missile test. Dictator Kim Jong Un is said to have personally observed the trial, the state broadcaster KCNA reports. Corresponding photos have been published, whereby the authenticity of the recordings and the possible recording time can not be independently verified.
According to KCNA, the device tested was a "super-large missile system capable of firing multiple missiles". Apparently, Kim has been present in trials of this weapon in the past. The current test is also said to have witnessed his sister Kim Yo Jong, who occupies a high position in the North Korean government apparatus.
The General Staff of the South Korean armed forces had announced on Tuesday that the projectiles had flown about 330 kilometers. The military oversees the situation and is on standby in the event of further weapons testing by North Korea.
Pyongyang to Washington: We are waiting for new ideas
The National Security Council in Seoul said, much like last week's North Korean missile tests, "grave concern" over the new test. The General Staff called on the isolated neighboring country to refrain from actions that could lead to further tensions.
In South Korea, it was speculated that the neighbor could use the new missile tests to increase the pressure on the US to respond to its demands in the dispute over the North Korean nuclear weapons program. North Korea's Deputy Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui had made it clear on Monday that her government still expected Washington to come up with new proposals that would satisfy Pyongyang.
International punitive measures hit the country extremely hard
She said that bilateral talks could take place later this month. Her country is ready to talk about all the issues that both sides have discussed so far. US President called the message from Pyongyang "interesting", but initially left open whether it could come soon to a meeting.
North Korea suffers from tough sanctions from the United Nations and the United States. The government in Washington, however, wants to keep the sanctions, as long as the risk associated with the North Korean nuclear program is not averted. In recent weeks, North Korea has also tested a series of missiles, including ballistic short-range missiles. UN resolutions prohibit the country from carrying out ballistic missile tests.
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