Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.
North Korea has claimed to have tested a new intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) equipped with a hypersonic warhead during a diplomatic visit by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
Getting into it: According to North Korean state media, the country successfully conducted a test of an IRBM equipped with a hypersonic warhead. The missile reportedly traveled 932 miles at Mach 12 before landing in the sea off the country’s east coast. North Korea touted the missile’s advanced capabilities, including maneuverability and the ability to evade dense defense systems, as a significant step in its military technology. The state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said Kim Jong-un oversaw the launch, which utilized new carbon-fiber composite materials in the missile’s engine to enhance performance and durability.
During the same period, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in Seoul meeting with South Korean officials, including Acting President Choi Sang-mok. Blinken briefly commented on the missile test, calling it a violation of multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions. In addition, Secretary Blinken reaffirmed the US’s “ironclad commitment” to defending South Korea.
Digging Deeper: This all comes as South Korea has grown increasingly concerned over the strengthening military partnership between North Korea and Russia, particularly over the potential transfer of missile technology, advanced fighter jets, and other military technologies to Pyongyang. South Korean officials are concerned that these exchanges may also involve critical technologies for North Korea’s nuclear program, which would further violate United Nations sanctions and destabilize the Korean Peninsula.
Why is Russia helping North Korea?: Back in late September, North Korea had begun deploying troops to Russia to assist with their war against Ukraine. Initially, approximately 12,000 North Korean officers, including high-ranking generals, were sent, with reports suggesting the total number of troops could eventually exceed 100,000. These soldiers, many disguised as Russian troops with fake IDs and local uniforms, are being tasked with front-line duties such as artillery operations, trench clearing, drone deployment, and supporting Russian counteroffensives in regions like Kursk. In return for the troops, Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed agreements with North Korea to provide new technology to North Korea.
