Japan marked the 81st anniversary of the Hiroshima atomic bombing with a solemn peace ceremony, reaffirming its commitment to its long-standing non-nuclear principles. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba emphasized that the devastation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki must never be repeated. The commemoration comes as Japan simultaneously undertakes its largest defense buildup since World War II in response to growing security concerns posed by China and North Korea, highlighting the country's delicate balance between peace and national security.

August 6, 1945: Around 140,000 People Perished in Hiroshima Bombing

Reports claim North Korea has activated a “dead man’s switch” nuclear system designed to trigger retaliation even if leader Kim Jong Un is killed. The development has intensified global concerns over nuclear escalation, automated warfare systems and regional security in East Asia.

Kill Kim & The World Ends! North Korea Activates Dead Man's Switch

North Korea has 300+ Hwasong-7 missiles and multiple ICBM types with miniaturised nuclear warheads and hypersonic capabilities.

North Korea has 300+ Hwasong-7 missiles and multiple ICBM types with miniaturised nuclear warheads and hypersonic capabilities.

'Ballistic and hypersonic missiles': What North Korea has and why it matters

North Korea has unveiled the Hwasong-20, a solid-fuel ICBM with a 15,000 km range capable of striking anywhere in the US. Featuring a new engine and potential for multiple warheads, it is described by Pyongyang as its most powerful strategic weapon to date.

North Korea has unveiled the Hwasong-20, a solid-fuel ICBM with a 15,000 km range capable of striking anywhere in the US. Featuring a new engine and potential for multiple warheads, it is described by Pyongyang as its most powerful strategic weapon to date.

Hwasong-20 ICBM: North Korea’s “doomsday missile” that can hit every US city

North Korea has test-fired two newly developed air-defence missiles, claiming successful trials of advanced targeting and guidance systems. The launch comes as South Korea and the United States continue their joint military drills, which Pyongyang views as a direct threat. The latest move underscores rising tensions on the Korean Peninsula and North Korea’s push to modernize its military capabilities.


North Korea tests two new air-defence missiles amid South Korea-U.S. military drills

North Korea on Wednesday (Feb 14) morning fired multiple cruise missiles off its east coast, the South Korean military claimed.

Wednesday's missile launch took place around 9 am local time (0000 GMT) off the eastern coastal city of Wonsan which is the&nbsp;latest in a string of weapons tests conducted by Pyongyang this year.&nbsp;

"Our military detected several unknown cruise missiles over the waters northeast of Wonsan around 09:00 today and South Korea-US intelligence authorities are conducting a detailed analysis,"&nbsp;the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said in a statement.

"While strengthening surveillance and vigilance, our military is cooperating closely with the United States and closely monitoring additional signs and activities from North Korea," it added.

Pyongyang is yet to confirm the claims made by the Seoul military.&nbsp;

Notably, earlier this week, North Korea claimed it had tested a new control system for a&nbsp;multiple rocket launcher which would have an "increased" battlefield role. Experts believe that the fresh missile launches may have been conducted using the new system.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-claims-to-have-tested-new-strategic-cruise-missile-pulhwasal-3-31-683422" target="_blank">North Korea claims to have tested new strategic cruise missile ‘Pulhwasal-3-31’</a>

<h2>Previous missile launches</h2>

The multiple missile launch comes in the backdrop of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un overseeing the launch of Pulhwasal-3-31 missiles from a submarine last month.&nbsp;

The two Pulhwasal-3-31 missiles were fired off the east coast on January 28 and&nbsp;remained in the air for 7,421 seconds and 7,445 seconds, according to&nbsp;state-run news agency KCNA.

Prior to that, Pyongyang conducted cruise missile tests on January 24 and January 14, which were the country’s first solid-fuel intermediate-range ballistic missiles.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-launches-several-cruise-missiles-686326">Watch |&nbsp;North Korea launches several cruise missiles</a>

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Last week, Kim reiterated that his country would not hesitate to&nbsp;"put an end" to South Korea if attacked, calling Seoul the North's "most dangerous and first enemy state and invariable arch-enemy".

"The historic time has come at last when we should define as a state most hostile toward the Democratic People's Republic of Korea the entity called the Republic of Korea (South Korea)," said Kim.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, South Korean President&nbsp;Yoon Suk Yeol has vowed&nbsp;a strong response if Pyongyang does indeed cross the line. Yoon has urged his military to&nbsp;"act first, report later" if provoked.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea on Wednesday (Feb 14) morning fired multiple cruise missiles off its east coast, the South Korean military claimed. Wednesday's missile launch took place around 9 am local time (0000 GMT) off the eastern coastal city of Wonsan which is the latest in a string of weapons tests conducted by Pyongyang this year.

North Korea on Wednesday (Feb 14) morning fired multiple cruise missiles off its east coast, the South Korean military claimed. Wednesday's missile launch took place around 9 am local time (0000 GMT) off the eastern coastal city of Wonsan which is the latest in a string of weapons tests conducted by Pyongyang this year. "Our military detected several unknown cruise missiles over the waters northeast of Wonsan around 09:00 today and South Korea-US intelligence authorities are conducting a detailed analysis," the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said in a statement. "While strengthening surveillance and vigilance, our military is cooperating closely with the United States and closely monitoring additional signs and activities from North Korea," it added. Pyongyang is yet to confirm the claims made by the Seoul military. Notably, earlier this week, North Korea claimed it had tested a new control system for a multiple rocket launcher which would have an "increased" battlefield role. Experts believe that the fresh missile launches may have been conducted using the new system. Also read | North Korea claims to have tested new strategic cruise missile ‘Pulhwasal-3-31’ Previous missile launches The multiple missile launch comes in the backdrop of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un overseeing the launch of Pulhwasal-3-31 missiles from a submarine last month. The two Pulhwasal-3-31 missiles were fired off the east coast on January 28 and remained in the air for 7,421 seconds and 7,445 seconds, according to state-run news agency KCNA. Prior to that, Pyongyang conducted cruise missile tests on January 24 and January 14, which were the country’s first solid-fuel intermediate-range ballistic missiles. Watch | North Korea launches several cruise missiles × Last week, Kim reiterated that his country would not hesitate to "put an end" to South Korea if attacked, calling Seoul the North's "most dangerous and first enemy state and invariable arch-enemy". "The historic time has come at last when we should define as a state most hostile toward the Democratic People's Republic of Korea the entity called the Republic of Korea (South Korea)," said Kim. Meanwhile, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has vowed a strong response if Pyongyang does indeed cross the line. Yoon has urged his military to "act first, report later" if provoked. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea launches multiple cruise missiles in fresh escalation, claims Seoul military

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff stated&nbsp;on Saturday (July 21), that North Korea fired "several cruise missiles" into the Yellow Sea, situated between China and the Korean peninsula. The launches occurred at approximately 4 am (1900 GMT), intensifying already strained relations between the two Koreas.

<h2>Ongoing concerns and heightened tensions</h2>

These latest missile tests are part of a series of provocative actions by Pyongyang, coming just three days after the firing of two ballistic missiles toward Japan's opposite coast.

The situation further exacerbates tensions as Seoul and Washington reinforce their defence cooperation to counter the North's aggressive moves, as reported by the Associated Press.

<h2>Diplomatic efforts stalled as weapons development escalates</h2>

Despite past diplomatic endeavours, negotiations between Pyongyang and Seoul have reached a stalemate.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for an escalation in weapons development, including the development of tactical nuclear weapons.

In response, South Korea and the United States have conducted joint military exercises featuring advanced stealth jets and deployed US strategic assets in the region.

Notably, a nuclear-armed American submarine made a port call in South Korea for the first time in decades.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/travis-king-no-news-on-soldier-who-ran-into-north-korea-illegally-says-us-617632">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/travis-king-no-news-on-soldier-who-ran-into-north-korea-illegally-says-us-617632">Travis King: US soldier was laughing while crossing border into North Korea, witness says</a></div>

<h2>North Korea's defence minister hints at nuclear weapon use</h2>

North Korea's defence minister, Kang Sun Nam, suggested that the recent deployment of the Ohio-class submarine might fall under conditions specified in North Korea's law on nuclear force policy, alluding to the potential use of nuclear weapons.

In response, South Korea's defence ministry warned that any such use by the North would trigger an immediate and decisive response, potentially leading to the end of the Kim regime.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: US soldier detained in North Korea

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<h2>North Korean silent on US soldier's custody</h2>

Adding to the complexities, a US soldier, Private Second Class Travis King, is believed to be in North Korean custody after breaking away from a tour group visiting the Demilitarised Zone.

The United States has expressed deep concern about King's well-being and has sought information about his situation from Pyongyang, with no response as of Thursday.

As the situation continues to evolve, the international community remains on alert, closely monitoring developments in the region and its potential impact on global security and stability.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff stated on Saturday (July 21), that North Korea fired "several cruise missiles" into the Yellow Sea, situated between China and the Korean peninsula.

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff stated on Saturday (July 21), that North Korea fired "several cruise missiles" into the Yellow Sea, situated between China and the Korean peninsula. The launches occurred at approximately 4 am (1900 GMT), intensifying already strained relations between the two Koreas. Ongoing concerns and heightened tensions These latest missile tests are part of a series of provocative actions by Pyongyang, coming just three days after the firing of two ballistic missiles toward Japan's opposite coast. The situation further exacerbates tensions as Seoul and Washington reinforce their defence cooperation to counter the North's aggressive moves, as reported by the Associated Press. Diplomatic efforts stalled as weapons development escalates Despite past diplomatic endeavours, negotiations between Pyongyang and Seoul have reached a stalemate. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for an escalation in weapons development, including the development of tactical nuclear weapons. In response, South Korea and the United States have conducted joint military exercises featuring advanced stealth jets and deployed US strategic assets in the region. Notably, a nuclear-armed American submarine made a port call in South Korea for the first time in decades. Also read | Travis King: US soldier was laughing while crossing border into North Korea, witness says North Korea's defence minister hints at nuclear weapon use North Korea's defence minister, Kang Sun Nam, suggested that the recent deployment of the Ohio-class submarine might fall under conditions specified in North Korea's law on nuclear force policy, alluding to the potential use of nuclear weapons. In response, South Korea's defence ministry warned that any such use by the North would trigger an immediate and decisive response, potentially leading to the end of the Kim regime. Also watch | Gravitas: US soldier detained in North Korea North Korean silent on US soldier's custody Adding to the complexities, a US soldier, Private Second Class Travis King, is believed to be in North Korean custody after breaking away from a tour group visiting the Demilitarised Zone. The United States has expressed deep concern about King's well-being and has sought information about his situation from Pyongyang, with no response as of Thursday. As the situation continues to evolve, the international community remains on alert, closely monitoring developments in the region and its potential impact on global security and stability. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

North Korea fires cruise missiles into sea amid silence on US soldier's border crossing

South Korea and the United States are discussing planning and implementation of U.S. nuclear operations to counter North Korea, Seoul's presidential office said on Tuesday.

South Korea and U.S. discuss nuclear planning operations

South Korea scrambled its jets after spotting about 180 North Korean warplanes flying north of the military border over four hours on Friday. The North Korean aircraft flew north of the so-called tactical measure line, drawn to up 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of the Military Demarcation Line (MDL), South Korea's military said in a statement.

Around 80 aircraft were deployed, including, F-35A stealth fighters by South Korea. About 240 aircraft that are participating in the Vigilant Storm air exercises with the United States continued the drills, the military said.

North Korea had executed a similar tactic last month when 10 warplanes flew in the area, prompting South Korea to scramble jets.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-nuclear-attack-on-us-or-allies-would-result-in-the-end-of-the-kim-regime-531031">Pentagon: Nuclear attack on US or allies would ‘result in the end of the Kim regime’</a>

Earlier, North Korea fired over 80 rounds of artillery into the sea overnight. Before that, it had launched multiple missiles into the sea on Thursday, that included a possible failed intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). The incident raised alarm in Japan and triggered evacuation warnings as the missile flew near two parts of the country.&nbsp;

Notably, on Wednesday, North Korea also fired an unprecedented number of 23 missiles in a single day during the ongoing air force exercises between the US and South Korea.&nbsp;

Following the firings, United States and South Korea extended air drills.

On Thursday, United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with his South Korean counterpart, Lee Jong-sup and released a joint communique which said that any nuclear attack against Washington or its allies would “result in the end of the Kim regime.”&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

In a joint communique released by the Defense Department, Austin said, “Any nuclear attack against the United States or its Allies and partners, including the use of non-strategic nuclear weapons, is unacceptable and will result in the end of the Kim regime.”

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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South Korea scrambled its jets after spotting about 180 North Korean warplanes flying north of the military border over four hours on Friday. The North Korean aircraft flew north of the so-called tactical measure line, drawn to up 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of the Military Demarcation Line (MDL), South Korea's military said in a statement.

South Korea scrambled its jets after spotting about 180 North Korean warplanes flying north of the military border over four hours on Friday. The North Korean aircraft flew north of the so-called tactical measure line, drawn to up 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of the Military Demarcation Line (MDL), South Korea's military said in a statement. Around 80 aircraft were deployed, including, F-35A stealth fighters by South Korea. About 240 aircraft that are participating in the Vigilant Storm air exercises with the United States continued the drills, the military said. North Korea had executed a similar tactic last month when 10 warplanes flew in the area, prompting South Korea to scramble jets. Also Read | Pentagon: Nuclear attack on US or allies would ‘result in the end of the Kim regime’ Earlier, North Korea fired over 80 rounds of artillery into the sea overnight. Before that, it had launched multiple missiles into the sea on Thursday, that included a possible failed intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). The incident raised alarm in Japan and triggered evacuation warnings as the missile flew near two parts of the country. Notably, on Wednesday, North Korea also fired an unprecedented number of 23 missiles in a single day during the ongoing air force exercises between the US and South Korea. Following the firings, United States and South Korea extended air drills. On Thursday, United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with his South Korean counterpart, Lee Jong-sup and released a joint communique which said that any nuclear attack against Washington or its allies would “result in the end of the Kim regime.” × In a joint communique released by the Defense Department, Austin said, “Any nuclear attack against the United States or its Allies and partners, including the use of non-strategic nuclear weapons, is unacceptable and will result in the end of the Kim regime.” (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea detects 180 North Korean warplanes, scrambles around 80 jets in response

North Korea may be preparing to launch a new submarine believed to be capable of firing ballistic missiles, a US-based think tank reported on Thursday, citing commercial satellite imagery. Images of the Sinpo South Shipyard, on the east coast of the country, from September 18 revealed six barges and vessels gathered around the construction hall quay, said 38 North, which monitors North Korea.

"While barges and a dry dock have been occasionally observed around the submarine launch quay at the main construction hall, the presence of six vessels and barges in this area has not been observed before," said the report.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-north-korea-grapples-with-food-crisis-flour-now-a-luxury-item-report-492992">As North Korea grapples with food crisis, flour now a luxury item: Report</a>

Analysts first spotted signs that at least one new submarine was being built in 2016, and in 2019 state media showed North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspecting a previously unreported submarine that was built under "his special attention" and that would be operational in the waters off the east coast.

Nothing was known at the time about the submarine's weapons systems or where and when the inspection took place. Analysts said the apparent size of the new vessel indicated it was designed to carry missiles. North Korea has a large submarine fleet but only one known experimental submarine capable of carrying a ballistic missile.

Analysts are unsure whether the apparent new missile submarine is a new design, or whether it is based on a modified Romeo Class of submarine originally acquired from China in the 1970s before North Korea began producing them domestically.

North Korea test-fired a submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) in May from near Sinpo, where North Korea keeps submarines as well as equipment for test-firing SLBMs. Observers say North Korea has made preparations to resume nuclear testing for the first time since 2017, amid stalled denuclearisation talks.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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North Korea may be preparing to launch a new submarine believed to be capable of firing ballistic missiles, a US-based think tank reported on Thursday, citing commercial satellite imagery.

North Korea may be preparing to launch a new submarine believed to be capable of firing ballistic missiles, a US-based think tank reported on Thursday, citing commercial satellite imagery. Images of the Sinpo South Shipyard, on the east coast of the country, from September 18 revealed six barges and vessels gathered around the construction hall quay, said 38 North, which monitors North Korea. "While barges and a dry dock have been occasionally observed around the submarine launch quay at the main construction hall, the presence of six vessels and barges in this area has not been observed before," said the report. Also Read | As North Korea grapples with food crisis, flour now a luxury item: Report Analysts first spotted signs that at least one new submarine was being built in 2016, and in 2019 state media showed North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspecting a previously unreported submarine that was built under "his special attention" and that would be operational in the waters off the east coast. Nothing was known at the time about the submarine's weapons systems or where and when the inspection took place. Analysts said the apparent size of the new vessel indicated it was designed to carry missiles. North Korea has a large submarine fleet but only one known experimental submarine capable of carrying a ballistic missile. Analysts are unsure whether the apparent new missile submarine is a new design, or whether it is based on a modified Romeo Class of submarine originally acquired from China in the 1970s before North Korea began producing them domestically. North Korea test-fired a submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) in May from near Sinpo, where North Korea keeps submarines as well as equipment for test-firing SLBMs. Observers say North Korea has made preparations to resume nuclear testing for the first time since 2017, amid stalled denuclearisation talks. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea planning to launch new missile submarine: Reports

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: North Korea missile launches; UK Partygate report

North Korea celebrated the 110th anniversary of the birth of late founder Kim Il Sung on Friday with fireworks, a procession, and an evening gala in Pyongyang's main square, with thousands of people in colourful traditional dress singing and dancing.

North Korea celebrates founder's birthday with dance, music but no military parade

After North Korea announced it had launched the Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile, South Korea's military however claimed it&nbsp;"faked" the launch of the "monster missile".

North Korea claimed it had successfully test-fired the long-range Hwasong-17 ICBM capable of carrying multiple warheads. North Korea had unveiled the missile during a military parade in 2020.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/north-korea-tests-new-icbm-465382">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;What is new ICBM tested by North Korea giving sleepless nights to US</a>

South Korean and US officials had earlier said that the March 24 launch appeared to be the Hwasong-15 ICBM. Kim's regime had first test-fired the Hwasong-15 in 2017 as it introduced a moratorium on ICBM testing.

The missile repeatedly flew for 67.5 minutes to a range of 1,090 km at an altitude of 6,248.5 km. South Korea reportedly said North Korea may have modified the Hwasong-15 missile.

Watch:&nbsp;North Korea tests massive ballistic missile

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US officials said North Korea may have "more in store" as far as missile launches are concerned. Multiple warheads allow a missile to evade missile defence systems. However, the US condemned the launch at the UN Security Council raising "destabilizing" risks.

It is North Korea's largest largest-ever intercontinental ballistic missile launch. In retaliation, South Korea fired a string of missiles in the Sea of Japan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hypersonics-to-cruise-missiles-north-koreas-long-range-ballistic-missile-technology-461354">Also Read |&nbsp;From hypersonics to cruise missiles: North Korea's long-range ballistic missile technology</a>

Japan said North Korea's new missile appeared to fly 71 minutes and landed in its territorial waters.

(With inputs from Agencies)

After North Korea announced it had launched the Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile, South Korea's military however claimed it "faked" the launch of the "monster missile".

After North Korea announced it had launched the Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile, South Korea's military however claimed it "faked" the launch of the "monster missile". North Korea claimed it had successfully test-fired the long-range Hwasong-17 ICBM capable of carrying multiple warheads. North Korea had unveiled the missile during a military parade in 2020. Also Read in Pics: What is new ICBM tested by North Korea giving sleepless nights to US South Korean and US officials had earlier said that the March 24 launch appeared to be the Hwasong-15 ICBM. Kim's regime had first test-fired the Hwasong-15 in 2017 as it introduced a moratorium on ICBM testing. The missile repeatedly flew for 67.5 minutes to a range of 1,090 km at an altitude of 6,248.5 km. South Korea reportedly said North Korea may have modified the Hwasong-15 missile. Watch: North Korea tests massive ballistic missile US officials said North Korea may have "more in store" as far as missile launches are concerned. Multiple warheads allow a missile to evade missile defence systems. However, the US condemned the launch at the UN Security Council raising "destabilizing" risks. It is North Korea's largest largest-ever intercontinental ballistic missile launch. In retaliation, South Korea fired a string of missiles in the Sea of Japan. Also Read | From hypersonics to cruise missiles: North Korea's long-range ballistic missile technology Japan said North Korea's new missile appeared to fly 71 minutes and landed in its territorial waters. (With inputs from Agencies)

Did North Korea 'fake' missile launch?

North Korea conducted its fifth weapons test of the year on Tuesday, firing two suspected cruise missiles.

Pyongyang has been showing its military might while refusing US offers of talks, leading to increased tensions and fresh sanctions against the North Korean regime.&nbsp;

"North Korea fired two suspected cruise missiles," South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement Tuesday. The missiles were fired into the sea off its east coast.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff of South Korea did not specify the range or trajectory of the missiles, but said they were undertaking an analysis with US officials.

While cruise missiles are less dangerous than faster ballistic missiles, they can hit targets with 'great precision,' according to one military analyst.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-are-hypersonic-missiles-different-is-it-the-new-wonder-weapon-444335">Also Read:&nbsp;How are hypersonic missiles different, is it the new 'wonder weapon'?</a>

North Korea last tested as many bombs in a month in 2019, following the failure of high-profile talks between leader Kim Jong Un and then-US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

Pyongyang has launched a new round of sanctions-busting tests this year, including hypersonic missiles, following Kim's reaffirmation of his commitment to military modernization in a key party speech in December.

The test of a tactical guided missile capable of high speed and movement after lift-off, as well as a railway-borne missile system, preceded Tuesday's launch.

As a result of the new sanctions, Pyongyang has increased its weapons testing and hinted last week that it may abandon a years-long self-imposed moratorium on nuclear and long-range missile launches.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea conducted its fifth weapons test of the year on Tuesday, firing two suspected cruise missiles. Pyongyang has been showing its military might while refusing US offers of talks, leading to increased tensions and fresh sanctions against the North Korean regime.

North Korea conducted its fifth weapons test of the year on Tuesday, firing two suspected cruise missiles. Pyongyang has been showing its military might while refusing US offers of talks, leading to increased tensions and fresh sanctions against the North Korean regime. "North Korea fired two suspected cruise missiles," South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement Tuesday. The missiles were fired into the sea off its east coast. The Joint Chiefs of Staff of South Korea did not specify the range or trajectory of the missiles, but said they were undertaking an analysis with US officials. While cruise missiles are less dangerous than faster ballistic missiles, they can hit targets with 'great precision,' according to one military analyst. Also Read: How are hypersonic missiles different, is it the new 'wonder weapon'? North Korea last tested as many bombs in a month in 2019, following the failure of high-profile talks between leader Kim Jong Un and then-US President Donald Trump. Pyongyang has launched a new round of sanctions-busting tests this year, including hypersonic missiles, following Kim's reaffirmation of his commitment to military modernization in a key party speech in December. The test of a tactical guided missile capable of high speed and movement after lift-off, as well as a railway-borne missile system, preceded Tuesday's launch. As a result of the new sanctions, Pyongyang has increased its weapons testing and hinted last week that it may abandon a years-long self-imposed moratorium on nuclear and long-range missile launches. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea fires two suspected cruise missiles, Seoul says

North Korea began the new year by convening a meeting for the ruling Workers’ Party during which very little was said about the United States. That ominous silence didn’t last long.

Kim Jong Un, the country’s ruler, has launched six ballistic missiles in four weapons tests since Jan. 5, almost as many missiles​ in one month​ as North Korea launched in all of last year. On Tuesday, the South Korean military confirmed that the North had fired two cruise missiles in its fifth test of 2022.

The message was clear: The North Korean leader feels he is being ignored and wants to push the Biden administration to reengage and pay attention to his economically ailing nation.

Individually, the tests may not amount to much — they involved missiles that have already been tested or weapons that are still under development. But taken together, they signal that Kim plans to use 2022 to jolt the Biden administration out of its diplomatic slumber.

Kim needs Washington to engage ​with him on economic concessions​ so that he can fix his country’s devastated economy. Over the years, he has learned that the best way to grab the attention of a U.S. president is with weapons. And that the best time to do it is when the world can least afford the instability.

According to that playbook, 2022 looks like a promising year.

China is busy preparing for the Beijing Olympics next month. South Korea elects a new president in March. Russia has hinted at a potential invasion of Ukraine, keeping the Biden administration on tenterhooks.

During a Politburo meeting last Wednesday, Kim suggested that his government might once again begin testing long-range missiles and nuclear devices after suspending such tests before his 2018 summit meeting with President Donald Trump.

“2022 calls for continued saber-rattling, punctuated by some major missile tests,” said Lee Sung-yoon, a North Korea expert at the Fletcher School at Tufts University. “Kim’s goal is to routinize short-range ballistic missile flights as a fact of life without any repercussions, after which he will move on to bigger provocations by resuming intermediate- and long-range missile tests punctuated by a nuclear test, as he did in 2017.”

That year, North Korea tested what it called a hydrogen bomb and also launched three intercontinental ballistic missiles. It was also the year Trump took office after a vicious campaign in the United States. South Korea had just impeached its president.

Wednesday was the second time ​Kim threatened to lift the moratorium on long-range missile and nuclear tests. After his diplomacy with Trump ended without an agreement in 2019, he said he no longer felt bound by the commitment. ​But he did not follow through with any such tests, and his country was soon plunged into the chaos of the coronavirus pandemic.

This year ​also marks the beginning of Kim’s second decade in power, and a chance for him to reassert his authority.

Ever since taking over, he has focused on building the country’s arsenal to validate his family’s dynastic rule, calling his nuclear weapons a “treasured sword” that protects North Korea against foreign invasion.

During the meeting Wednesday, he urged North Koreans to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the birth of his father​ and predecessor, Kim Jong Il, in February, as well as the 110th birthday of his grandfather, Kim Il Sung, in April.

Under his father and grandfather, North Korea had seemed open to shelving its nuclear ambitions. But those hopes have dissipated under Kim, who has rapidly expanded the country’s nuclear program, even as the United Nations piled on sanctions.

Though ​Kim has often been depicted abroad as a leader ​potentially capable of opening up his isolated country for the sake of economic development, his nuclear weapons are, as North Korea has put it, “not a bargaining chip.”

Rather, the country sees them as tools​ to bring Washington to the negotiating table. And by that logic, the more powerful the arsenal, the more leverage Kim has.

Even when he ​vowed to focus on economic development in 2013, Kim stuck to his “parallel” goal of strengthening his nuclear force. The country has conducted more than 130 missile tests under him, compared with a total of 16 tests under his father and 15 under his grandfather. The last four of the North’s six nuclear tests all took place under his watch.

“By advancing its nuclear capabilities and weapons systems, North Korea is showing the United States and South Korea that the more time passes, ​the bigger the price ​will become that they have to pay,” Choi Yong-hwan, an analyst at the Institute for National Security Strategy​ in Seoul, wrote in a recent policy paper.

Yet try as it may to flex its power, North Korea appears to be low on the Biden administration’s list of international priorities​​.

Washington has taken no steps to entice Kim, except to propose talks “without preconditions,” ​a lukewarm entreaty that North Korea has rebuffed.

But it has not resumed tests of intercontinental ballistic missiles. Instead, North Korea has focused on testing missiles that can carry what it calls “smaller, lighter and tactical” nuclear weapons. ​These kinds of weapons do not pose a direct threat to the United States, but they could boost Kim’s leverage with Washington by placing American allies such as South Korea and Japan under nuclear threat.

In North Korea’s first two tests this month, the country launched short-range ballistic missiles with what it called “hypersonic gliding vehicles,” detachable warheads that ​make the weapons harder to intercept because they ​not only fly extremely fast but also change course during flight.

In a Jan. 13 test, North Korea launched the KN-23, one of three new solid-fuel ballistic missiles the North has been testing since 2019.

Solid-fuel missiles are easier to transport and launch. The KN-23 can perform low-altitude maneuvers, making them harder to intercept. North Korea has also begun launching KN-23 variants from a submarine, as it did in October, and from trains, as it did in September and again this month.

In its most recent test, North Korea fired a pair of solid-fuel missiles from a mobile launcher vehicle. When the North first launched such a pair in 2019, there was a 16-minute interval between the two missiles fired.

That gap was reduced to four minutes in the recent test, indicating that the military has improved its ability to fire multiple missiles and hide them from counterattacks by the United States and South Korea.

“North Korea hopes that if it continues to demonstrate its nuclear capabilities but confines them to the Korean Peninsula, it will not aggravate public opinion in the United States and will strengthen voices there calling for a compromise,” Cha Du-hyeogn, a principal fellow at the Seoul-based Asan Institute for Policy Studies, wrote in a recent paper.

For that strategy to work, Kim will need continued help from China in resisting any new international sanctions. North Korea’s economic challenges were deepened two years ago when it shut its border with China to fight the pandemic. This month, Beijing confirmed that “through friendly consultations,” China and North Korea reopened their border for freight trains.

“This timing suggests Beijing is more than complicit with Pyongyang’s provocations,” said Leif-Eric Easley, a professor of international studies at Ewha Womans University in Seoul. “China is supporting North Korea economically and coordinating with it militarily.”

North Korea began the new year by convening a meeting for the ruling Workers’ Party during which very little was said about the United States. That ominous silence didn’t last long.

North Korea began the new year by convening a meeting for the ruling Workers’ Party during which very little was said about the United States. That ominous silence didn’t last long. Kim Jong Un, the country’s ruler, has launched six ballistic missiles in four weapons tests since Jan. 5, almost as many missiles in one month as North Korea launched in all of last year. On Tuesday, the South Korean military confirmed that the North had fired two cruise missiles in its fifth test of 2022. The message was clear: The North Korean leader feels he is being ignored and wants to push the Biden administration to reengage and pay attention to his economically ailing nation. Individually, the tests may not amount to much — they involved missiles that have already been tested or weapons that are still under development. But taken together, they signal that Kim plans to use 2022 to jolt the Biden administration out of its diplomatic slumber. Kim needs Washington to engage with him on economic concessions so that he can fix his country’s devastated economy. Over the years, he has learned that the best way to grab the attention of a U.S. president is with weapons. And that the best time to do it is when the world can least afford the instability. According to that playbook, 2022 looks like a promising year. China is busy preparing for the Beijing Olympics next month. South Korea elects a new president in March. Russia has hinted at a potential invasion of Ukraine, keeping the Biden administration on tenterhooks. During a Politburo meeting last Wednesday, Kim suggested that his government might once again begin testing long-range missiles and nuclear devices after suspending such tests before his 2018 summit meeting with President Donald Trump. “2022 calls for continued saber-rattling, punctuated by some major missile tests,” said Lee Sung-yoon, a North Korea expert at the Fletcher School at Tufts University. “Kim’s goal is to routinize short-range ballistic missile flights as a fact of life without any repercussions, after which he will move on to bigger provocations by resuming intermediate- and long-range missile tests punctuated by a nuclear test, as he did in 2017.” That year, North Korea tested what it called a hydrogen bomb and also launched three intercontinental ballistic missiles. It was also the year Trump took office after a vicious campaign in the United States. South Korea had just impeached its president. Wednesday was the second time Kim threatened to lift the moratorium on long-range missile and nuclear tests. After his diplomacy with Trump ended without an agreement in 2019, he said he no longer felt bound by the commitment. But he did not follow through with any such tests, and his country was soon plunged into the chaos of the coronavirus pandemic. This year also marks the beginning of Kim’s second decade in power, and a chance for him to reassert his authority. Ever since taking over, he has focused on building the country’s arsenal to validate his family’s dynastic rule, calling his nuclear weapons a “treasured sword” that protects North Korea against foreign invasion. During the meeting Wednesday, he urged North Koreans to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the birth of his father and predecessor, Kim Jong Il, in February, as well as the 110th birthday of his grandfather, Kim Il Sung, in April. Under his father and grandfather, North Korea had seemed open to shelving its nuclear ambitions. But those hopes have dissipated under Kim, who has rapidly expanded the country’s nuclear program, even as the United Nations piled on sanctions. Though Kim has often been depicted abroad as a leader potentially capable of opening up his isolated country for the sake of economic development, his nuclear weapons are, as North Korea has put it, “not a bargaining chip.” Rather, the country sees them as tools to bring Washington to the negotiating table. And by that logic, the more powerful the arsenal, the more leverage Kim has. Even when he vowed to focus on economic development in 2013, Kim stuck to his “parallel” goal of strengthening his nuclear force. The country has conducted more than 130 missile tests under him, compared with a total of 16 tests under his father and 15 under his grandfather. The last four of the North’s six nuclear tests all took place under his watch. “By advancing its nuclear capabilities and weapons systems, North Korea is showing the United States and South Korea that the more time passes, the bigger the price will become that they have to pay,” Choi Yong-hwan, an analyst at the Institute for National Security Strategy in Seoul, wrote in a recent policy paper. Yet try as it may to flex its power, North Korea appears to be low on the Biden administration’s list of international priorities. Washington has taken no steps to entice Kim, except to propose talks “without preconditions,” a lukewarm entreaty that North Korea has rebuffed. But it has not resumed tests of intercontinental ballistic missiles. Instead, North Korea has focused on testing missiles that can carry what it calls “smaller, lighter and tactical” nuclear weapons. These kinds of weapons do not pose a direct threat to the United States, but they could boost Kim’s leverage with Washington by placing American allies such as South Korea and Japan under nuclear threat. In North Korea’s first two tests this month, the country launched short-range ballistic missiles with what it called “hypersonic gliding vehicles,” detachable warheads that make the weapons harder to intercept because they not only fly extremely fast but also change course during flight. In a Jan. 13 test, North Korea launched the KN-23, one of three new solid-fuel ballistic missiles the North has been testing since 2019. Solid-fuel missiles are easier to transport and launch. The KN-23 can perform low-altitude maneuvers, making them harder to intercept. North Korea has also begun launching KN-23 variants from a submarine, as it did in October, and from trains, as it did in September and again this month. In its most recent test, North Korea fired a pair of solid-fuel missiles from a mobile launcher vehicle. When the North first launched such a pair in 2019, there was a 16-minute interval between the two missiles fired. That gap was reduced to four minutes in the recent test, indicating that the military has improved its ability to fire multiple missiles and hide them from counterattacks by the United States and South Korea. “North Korea hopes that if it continues to demonstrate its nuclear capabilities but confines them to the Korean Peninsula, it will not aggravate public opinion in the United States and will strengthen voices there calling for a compromise,” Cha Du-hyeogn, a principal fellow at the Seoul-based Asan Institute for Policy Studies, wrote in a recent paper. For that strategy to work, Kim will need continued help from China in resisting any new international sanctions. North Korea’s economic challenges were deepened two years ago when it shut its border with China to fight the pandemic. This month, Beijing confirmed that “through friendly consultations,” China and North Korea reopened their border for freight trains. “This timing suggests Beijing is more than complicit with Pyongyang’s provocations,” said Leif-Eric Easley, a professor of international studies at Ewha Womans University in Seoul. “China is supporting North Korea economically and coordinating with it militarily.”

Why is North Korea suddenly launching so many missiles?

Amid global condemnation from world powers, North Korea tests Hypersonic missile in a bid to upgrade its missile arsenal.

North Korea tests Hypersonic missile in a bid to upgrade its missile arsenal

North Korea once again fired a ballistic missile into the sea. This comes hours after the U.S. reaffirmed its offer to resume diplomacy on North Korea's nuclear weapons program

North Korea: Pyongyang continues it's missile testing spree

North Korea displayed what appeared to be a new submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) at a parade on Thursday night, state media reported, capping more than a week of political meetings with a show of military might.

North Korea shows off new submarine-launched missile

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un called for "positive and offensive measures" to ensure safety and warned of "grave economic conditions" during a meeting with officials even as the year-end deadline for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-promises-action-on-any-north-korea-missile-test-white-house-270890">denuclearisation neared</a> on Monday.

The meeting attended by top <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-holds-top-party-meeting-ahead-of-us-deadline-270787">North Korean officials</a> is taking place as the country battles international isolation over its nuclear programme.

Kim called for "decisive turn" in North Korea's economy, the state-media reported.

The high profile plenary session comes even as North Korea-US talks on denuclearisation talks remain stalled.

North Korea had earlier warned of a Christmas gift” for the United States referring to a possible missile test. US President hit back saying the United States would "deal with it very successfully."

"We'll find out what the surprise is and we'll deal with it very successfully," Trump said, adding,"We'll see what happens." Trump even suggested that it could be "nice present".&nbsp;

"Maybe it's a present where he sends me a beautiful vase as opposed to a missile test," the US president joked.

Meanwhile, North Korea's main ally China and Russia suggested to the UNSC to drop a few sanctions but it has met with a cold US response.

The White House said on Sunday said it would consider "other tools" beyond talks and diplomacy if North Korea went ahead with its missile tests.

White House national security advisor Robert O'Brien speaking to a US channel said that "additional pressure can be brought to bear on North Korea" through "tools in our toolkit" while terming North Korea's nuclear programme as "most difficult challenge in the world" of the Trump administration.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un called for "positive and offensive measures" to ensure safety and warned of "grave economic conditions" during a meeting with officials even as the year-end deadline for denuclearisation neared on Monday.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un called for "positive and offensive measures" to ensure safety and warned of "grave economic conditions" during a meeting with officials even as the year-end deadline for denuclearisation neared on Monday. The meeting attended by top North Korean officials is taking place as the country battles international isolation over its nuclear programme. Kim called for "decisive turn" in North Korea's economy, the state-media reported. The high profile plenary session comes even as North Korea-US talks on denuclearisation talks remain stalled. North Korea had earlier warned of a Christmas gift” for the United States referring to a possible missile test. US President hit back saying the United States would "deal with it very successfully." "We'll find out what the surprise is and we'll deal with it very successfully," Trump said, adding,"We'll see what happens." Trump even suggested that it could be "nice present". "Maybe it's a present where he sends me a beautiful vase as opposed to a missile test," the US president joked. Meanwhile, North Korea's main ally China and Russia suggested to the UNSC to drop a few sanctions but it has met with a cold US response. The White House said on Sunday said it would consider "other tools" beyond talks and diplomacy if North Korea went ahead with its missile tests. White House national security advisor Robert O'Brien speaking to a US channel said that "additional pressure can be brought to bear on North Korea" through "tools in our toolkit" while terming North Korea's nuclear programme as "most difficult challenge in the world" of the Trump administration.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un calls for 'positive, offensive measures' to ensure safety

As US President Donald Trump<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-a-cruel-dictatorship-says-trump-in-seoul-23705"> slammed North Korea from China in a tweet telling Kim&#39;s regime </a>not to test &quot;America&#39;s past restraint as weakness&quot;, North Korean ambassador said sanctions on its country was affecting vulnerable families.

Han Tae Song, ambassador of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-denounces-cruel-dictatorship-of-north-korea-23701">North Korea to the United Nations said: &quot;The United States</a> and other hostile forces impede the enjoyment by our people of their human rights in every possible way, resorting to the vicious ways and means of all kinds in their attempt to stifle the ideas and system of the DPRK.&quot;

&quot;Due to these inhumane economic sanctions, vulnerable peoples like women and children are becoming...victims,&quot; he said.

North Korea&#39;s neighbour South Korea had imposed additional sanctions with Japan declaring on Tuesday it would also follow suit in retaliation to Kim&#39;s continued missile testing over the Korean peninsula.

&quot;Such sanctions against humanity which block even the delivery of the medical equipment and medicines for maternal and child health and the basic goods for daily life including even children&rsquo;s bicycles threaten the protection and promotion of our women&rsquo;s rights and even the right to survival of the children,&quot; Song added.

US president Donald Trump continued to put pressure on North Korea declaring, &quot;do not underestimate us and do not try us&quot; as he left South Korea earlier in the day as part of his Asia tour.

Speaking at the South Korean National Assembly the US president said: &quot;Far from valuing its people as equal citizens, this cruel dictatorship measures them, scores them, and ranks them based on the most arbitrary indication of their allegiance to the state.&quot;

&quot;We will not allow American cities to be threatened with destruction,&quot; he said, adding, &quot;America does not seek conflict or confrontation, but we will never run from it.&quot;

&quot;We will not permit America or our allies to be blackmailed or attacked,&quot; the US president asserted.

North Korean ambassador said sanctions on its country was affecting vulnerable families

As US President Donald Trump slammed North Korea from China in a tweet telling Kim's regime not to test "America's past restraint as weakness", North Korean ambassador said sanctions on its country was affecting vulnerable families. Han Tae Song, ambassador of North Korea to the United Nations said: "The United States and other hostile forces impede the enjoyment by our people of their human rights in every possible way, resorting to the vicious ways and means of all kinds in their attempt to stifle the ideas and system of the DPRK." "Due to these inhumane economic sanctions, vulnerable peoples like women and children are becoming...victims," he said. North Korea's neighbour South Korea had imposed additional sanctions with Japan declaring on Tuesday it would also follow suit in retaliation to Kim's continued missile testing over the Korean peninsula. "Such sanctions against humanity which block even the delivery of the medical equipment and medicines for maternal and child health and the basic goods for daily life including even children’s bicycles threaten the protection and promotion of our women’s rights and even the right to survival of the children," Song added. US president Donald Trump continued to put pressure on North Korea declaring, "do not underestimate us and do not try us" as he left South Korea earlier in the day as part of his Asia tour. Speaking at the South Korean National Assembly the US president said: "Far from valuing its people as equal citizens, this cruel dictatorship measures them, scores them, and ranks them based on the most arbitrary indication of their allegiance to the state." "We will not allow American cities to be threatened with destruction," he said, adding, "America does not seek conflict or confrontation, but we will never run from it." "We will not permit America or our allies to be blackmailed or attacked," the US president asserted.

Sanctions threatening women and children: North Korea

North Korea launched a series of what appeared to be &quot;surface-to-ship&quot; cruise missiles on Thursday, South Korea&#39;s defence ministry said, in what would be the latest in a string of tests in defiance of UN sanctions.

&quot;North Korea fired multiple unidentified projectiles, assumed to be surface-to-ship missiles, this morning from the vicinity of Wonsan, Gangwon Province,&quot; the ministry said.

Seoul has stepped up surveillance against possible threats, it added.&nbsp;

This would be the fourth missile test by the nuclear-armed regime in less than five weeks, as Pyongyang continues to defy UN warnings and US threats of possible military action.

The UN Security Council last Friday unanimously adopted a US-drafted resolution imposing new targeted sanctions on a handful of North Korean officials and entities, in response to a series of ballistic missile tests this year that are banned under UN resolutions.

However, North Korea on Sunday slammed the latest UN sanctions as &quot;mean&quot; and vowed to press ahead with its missile and nuclear weapons programmes.

Professor Yang Moo-Jin of the University of North Korean Studies told AFP: &quot;North Korea has been stepping up missile tests ... in order to project an image to the world that international sanctions can never bring it to its knees.

&quot;It is also expressing displeasure of the arrival of a US nuclear submarine in South Korean&quot;.

The 6,900-ton USS Cheyenne, whose home port is Pearl Harbor, arrived in the South Korea port of Busan Tuesday.

Muscle-flexing 
 
The US has stepped up its muscle-flexing in recent months in response to what it sees as aggressive shows of strength by North Korea.

Two US aircraft carriers and their escort vessels have carried out naval maneuvers in the Sea of Japan within the last two weeks in a show of force directed at Pyongyang, the US military has said.

Early last month, the North test-fired what appeared to be its longest-range ballistic missile to date, in a bid to bring the US mainland within reach.

The North has carried out two atomic tests and dozens of missile launches since the beginning of last year in its quest to develop a missile capable of delivering a nuclear warhead to the continental United States -- something President Donald Trump has vowed &quot;won&#39;t happen&quot;.

The US military &quot;successfully intercepted an intercontinental ballistic missile target&quot; in a test conducted amid concerns over the North&#39;s weapons program, it said.

The North says it needs nuclear weapons to forestall the threat of a US attack.

China, the reclusive regime&#39;s sole major ally, has made it clear that a push for talks -- and not more sanctions -- is its priority.&nbsp;

But the US has said it is willing to enter into talks only if the North halts its missile and nuclear tests.

Many analysts doubt that the North has developed an ICBM or a nuclear warhead small enough to fit atop a missile.&nbsp;

But most agree that the country has made significant progress under the young leader, who took power after the death of his father and longtime ruler, Kim Jong-Il, in December 2011. &nbsp;

(AFP)

North Korea launched a series of what appeared to be 'surface-to-ship' missiles on Thursday

North Korea launched a series of what appeared to be "surface-to-ship" cruise missiles on Thursday, South Korea's defence ministry said, in what would be the latest in a string of tests in defiance of UN sanctions. "North Korea fired multiple unidentified projectiles, assumed to be surface-to-ship missiles, this morning from the vicinity of Wonsan, Gangwon Province," the ministry said. Seoul has stepped up surveillance against possible threats, it added. This would be the fourth missile test by the nuclear-armed regime in less than five weeks, as Pyongyang continues to defy UN warnings and US threats of possible military action. The UN Security Council last Friday unanimously adopted a US-drafted resolution imposing new targeted sanctions on a handful of North Korean officials and entities, in response to a series of ballistic missile tests this year that are banned under UN resolutions. However, North Korea on Sunday slammed the latest UN sanctions as "mean" and vowed to press ahead with its missile and nuclear weapons programmes. Professor Yang Moo-Jin of the University of North Korean Studies told AFP: "North Korea has been stepping up missile tests ... in order to project an image to the world that international sanctions can never bring it to its knees. "It is also expressing displeasure of the arrival of a US nuclear submarine in South Korean". The 6,900-ton USS Cheyenne, whose home port is Pearl Harbor, arrived in the South Korea port of Busan Tuesday. Muscle-flexing The US has stepped up its muscle-flexing in recent months in response to what it sees as aggressive shows of strength by North Korea. Two US aircraft carriers and their escort vessels have carried out naval maneuvers in the Sea of Japan within the last two weeks in a show of force directed at Pyongyang, the US military has said. Early last month, the North test-fired what appeared to be its longest-range ballistic missile to date, in a bid to bring the US mainland within reach. The North has carried out two atomic tests and dozens of missile launches since the beginning of last year in its quest to develop a missile capable of delivering a nuclear warhead to the continental United States -- something President Donald Trump has vowed "won't happen". The US military "successfully intercepted an intercontinental ballistic missile target" in a test conducted amid concerns over the North's weapons program, it said. The North says it needs nuclear weapons to forestall the threat of a US attack. China, the reclusive regime's sole major ally, has made it clear that a push for talks -- and not more sanctions -- is its priority. But the US has said it is willing to enter into talks only if the North halts its missile and nuclear tests. Many analysts doubt that the North has developed an ICBM or a nuclear warhead small enough to fit atop a missile. But most agree that the country has made significant progress under the young leader, who took power after the death of his father and longtime ruler, Kim Jong-Il, in December 2011. (AFP)

North Korea launches multiple missiles: South Korea

&nbsp;The US&nbsp;House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved legislation on Thursday to tighten&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;on&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;by targeting its shipping industry and companies that do business with the reclusive state.

The vote was 419 to 1.

Supporters said the legislation was intended to send a strong message to&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea, amid international concern over the escalation of its nuclear programme.

The measure would have to be approved by the Senate before it could be sent to the White House for President Donald Trump to sign into law.

Although legislation addressing&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has been introduced in the Senate, there was no immediate word on when or if the Senate might take up a bill.

Any new US&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;against&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;would likely affect China, the&nbsp;North&#39;s most important trade partner.

While China has been angered by&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&#39;s nuclear and missile tests, it has signed up for increasingly tough UN&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;against it, and says it is committed to enforcing them.

Asked about the latest US&nbsp;legislation, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang reiterated that China opposed other countries using their own domestic law to impose unilateralsanctions.

With the situation tense on the&nbsp;Korean Peninsula, all sides need to exercise restraint and not irritate each other to avoid the situation worsening, he said.

(Reuters)

The US House of Representatives approved a legislation targeting shipping industry and companies that do business with the reclusive state

The US House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved legislation on Thursday to tighten sanctions on North Korea by targeting its shipping industry and companies that do business with the reclusive state. The vote was 419 to 1. Supporters said the legislation was intended to send a strong message to North Korea, amid international concern over the escalation of its nuclear programme. The measure would have to be approved by the Senate before it could be sent to the White House for President Donald Trump to sign into law. Although legislation addressing North Korea has been introduced in the Senate, there was no immediate word on when or if the Senate might take up a bill. Any new US sanctions against North Korea would likely affect China, the North's most important trade partner. While China has been angered by North Korea's nuclear and missile tests, it has signed up for increasingly tough UN sanctions against it, and says it is committed to enforcing them. Asked about the latest US legislation, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang reiterated that China opposed other countries using their own domestic law to impose unilateralsanctions. With the situation tense on the Korean Peninsula, all sides need to exercise restraint and not irritate each other to avoid the situation worsening, he said. (Reuters)

US House tightens sanctions on nuclear-armed North Korea

The United States disagreed with China that it should hold talks with North Korea because their leader Kinm Jong-Un was &quot;not rational&quot;.

China had earlier asked the US and North Korea to avert a &quot;head-on collision&quot; by holding talks to smoothen the latest flare-up between the countries.

Beijing, North Korea&#39;s trusted ally, had earlier asked Pyongyang to junk its nuclear development and wanted the US to put hold up the annual&nbsp;US-South Korean military drills

But the US rebuffed China&#39;s entreaties on Wednesday, with their ambassador Nikki Haley putting out a withering a criticism of the North leader following a closed-door meeting of the UN Security Council.

&quot;We are not dealing with a rational person,&quot; the ambassador said, adding that Kim is a person &quot;who has not had rational acts, who is not thinking clearly&quot;.

North Korea fired at least four missiles toward Japan on Monday, three of which splashed down in waters near Japan.

The US ambassador said &quot;all the options are on the table&quot; and did not rule out talks completely but she made clear that the onus was on North Korea to show a willingness to seek a diplomatic solution.

&quot;We have to see some sort of positive action taken by North Korea before we can ever take them seriously,&quot; said Haley.

China, Pyongyang&#39;s main ally, earlier called on North Korea to suspend its nuclear and missile activities in exchange for the US and South Korea halting joint military exercises in South Korea.

The proposal from the Chinese foreign minister however appeared to fall flat, with Britain, France and Japan saying that North Korea must take the first step to show that it was ready to change course and abandon its military and nuclear programs.

Chinese Ambassador Liu Jieyi stressed the importance of reducing tensions on the Korean peninsula, telling reporters after the meeting that this must be done &quot;in a negotiated way&quot;. &nbsp;

The council has imposed six sets of sanctions on North Korea -- two of which were adopted last year to significantly ramp up measures and deny Kim&#39;s regime hard currency revenue.

(WION with inputs from AFP)

US Ambassador Nikki Haley's scathing comment comes after Pyongyang defied UN decree to test-fire missiles on March 6

The United States disagreed with China that it should hold talks with North Korea because their leader Kinm Jong-Un was "not rational". China had earlier asked the US and North Korea to avert a "head-on collision" by holding talks to smoothen the latest flare-up between the countries. Beijing, North Korea's trusted ally, had earlier asked Pyongyang to junk its nuclear development and wanted the US to put hold up the annual US-South Korean military drills But the US rebuffed China's entreaties on Wednesday, with their ambassador Nikki Haley putting out a withering a criticism of the North leader following a closed-door meeting of the UN Security Council. "We are not dealing with a rational person," the ambassador said, adding that Kim is a person "who has not had rational acts, who is not thinking clearly". North Korea fired at least four missiles toward Japan on Monday, three of which splashed down in waters near Japan. The US ambassador said "all the options are on the table" and did not rule out talks completely but she made clear that the onus was on North Korea to show a willingness to seek a diplomatic solution. "We have to see some sort of positive action taken by North Korea before we can ever take them seriously," said Haley. China, Pyongyang's main ally, earlier called on North Korea to suspend its nuclear and missile activities in exchange for the US and South Korea halting joint military exercises in South Korea. The proposal from the Chinese foreign minister however appeared to fall flat, with Britain, France and Japan saying that North Korea must take the first step to show that it was ready to change course and abandon its military and nuclear programs. Chinese Ambassador Liu Jieyi stressed the importance of reducing tensions on the Korean peninsula, telling reporters after the meeting that this must be done "in a negotiated way". The council has imposed six sets of sanctions on North Korea -- two of which were adopted last year to significantly ramp up measures and deny Kim's regime hard currency revenue. (WION with inputs from AFP)

Talks with North Korea not possible due to irrational Kim: US

The North Korean missiles that crashed into the Sea of Japan early Monday (March 6) was a training exercise to launch assaults on US bases in Japan.

Pyongyang&#39;s official KCNA news agency said North leader Kin Jong-Un himself gave the order for the firing of the projectiles, a development that caused turbulence in East Asia and the United States.

On Monday, South Korea&#39;s military and later Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe had confirmed that the North test-fired four missiles, three of which crashed into Tokyo&#39;s waters that are part of an exclusive economic zone.

North Korea&#39;s continuance in their missile-testing policy flies in the face of rigorous sanctions imposed by the United Nations.

Pyongyang is barred by the UN from using any kind of ballistic missile technology.

But nuclear-armed North Korea has launched about five nuclear missiles in the last decade and about 20 ballistic missiles since 2015, according to a report in New York Times.

North&#39;s latest act of defiance has vexed South Korea and the US, who have sought an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council.

Pyongyang had test-fired another missile just days after US President Donald Trump assumed power in Washington, a provocative action that had tested the incoming US administration&#39;s mettle.

White House spokesman Sean Spicer later on Monday said North Korea poses a &quot;very serious threat&quot;, adding the Trump administration was taking steps to &quot;enhance our ability to defend against North Korea&#39;s ballistic missiles&quot;.

One of the measures include deployment of a missile defence system called THAAD in South Korea.

Kim Jong-Un has repeatedly spelled his desire of developing an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) that can strike mainland United States.

In his 2017 New Year&#39;s address, Kim had said the development of an ICBM was in its &quot;final stages&quot;.

But Trump has insisted that the US would not let Pyongyang develop such a projectile.

(WION with inputs from AFP)

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Pyongyang's official KCNA news agency said North Korea leader Kin Jong-Un gave the order to fire himself

The North Korean missiles that crashed into the Sea of Japan early Monday (March 6) was a training exercise to launch assaults on US bases in Japan. Pyongyang's official KCNA news agency said North leader Kin Jong-Un himself gave the order for the firing of the projectiles, a development that caused turbulence in East Asia and the United States. On Monday, South Korea's military and later Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe had confirmed that the North test-fired four missiles, three of which crashed into Tokyo's waters that are part of an exclusive economic zone. North Korea's continuance in their missile-testing policy flies in the face of rigorous sanctions imposed by the United Nations. Pyongyang is barred by the UN from using any kind of ballistic missile technology. But nuclear-armed North Korea has launched about five nuclear missiles in the last decade and about 20 ballistic missiles since 2015, according to a report in New York Times. North's latest act of defiance has vexed South Korea and the US, who have sought an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council. Pyongyang had test-fired another missile just days after US President Donald Trump assumed power in Washington, a provocative action that had tested the incoming US administration's mettle. White House spokesman Sean Spicer later on Monday said North Korea poses a "very serious threat", adding the Trump administration was taking steps to "enhance our ability to defend against North Korea's ballistic missiles". One of the measures include deployment of a missile defence system called THAAD in South Korea. Kim Jong-Un has repeatedly spelled his desire of developing an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) that can strike mainland United States. In his 2017 New Year's address, Kim had said the development of an ICBM was in its "final stages". But Trump has insisted that the US would not let Pyongyang develop such a projectile. (WION with inputs from AFP)

North Korea missile tests were training to attack US bases in Japan: Report

The UN Security Council will hold an emergency meeting on Wednesday on North Korea&#39;s latest missile launches, the US mission said.

The meeting scheduled for 10:00 am (1500 GMT) was requested by the United States and Japan after Pyongyang launched at least four ballistic missiles, three of which fell in the sea close to Japan.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres condemned the latest missile tests and urged Pyongyang to &quot;refrain from further provocations&quot;.

The launches were the latest in a series of test-firings that violate UN resolutions barring Pyongyang from developing missile technology.

US ambassador Nikki Haley said on Twitter that the world &quot;won&#39;t allow&quot; North Korea to continue on its &quot;destructive path&quot;.

South Korea said four missiles were fired from Tongchang County in North Pyongan province into the East Sea -- its name for the Sea of Japan.

The missiles travelled about 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) and reached an altitude of 260 kilometres (160 miles), a spokesman for South Korea&#39;s Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

(AFP)

The meeting scheduled for 1500 GMT was requested by the United States and Japan after Pyongyang launched at least four ballistic missiles

The UN Security Council will hold an emergency meeting on Wednesday on North Korea's latest missile launches, the US mission said. The meeting scheduled for 10:00 am (1500 GMT) was requested by the United States and Japan after Pyongyang launched at least four ballistic missiles, three of which fell in the sea close to Japan. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres condemned the latest missile tests and urged Pyongyang to "refrain from further provocations". The launches were the latest in a series of test-firings that violate UN resolutions barring Pyongyang from developing missile technology. US ambassador Nikki Haley said on Twitter that the world "won't allow" North Korea to continue on its "destructive path". South Korea said four missiles were fired from Tongchang County in North Pyongan province into the East Sea -- its name for the Sea of Japan. The missiles travelled about 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) and reached an altitude of 260 kilometres (160 miles), a spokesman for South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said. (AFP)

UN Security Council will meet Wednesday on North Korea missile launches