North Korea’s 12th missile launch last week is still making waves. As Russia begins its probe to find out whether the missile fell into its economic zone or not. According to reports, the Hwangso-18 intercontinental ballistic missile launched by North Korea on the 12th of July may have fallen into Russian waters. The Russian deputy foreign minister Andrei Rudenko has said that no clear information is available as of now to confirm whether the missile hit the Russian waters or not.

Russia investigates if North Korea’s missile fell in its waters

<p>US, South Korea and Japan held a joint missile defence exercise Sunday aimed at bolstering their response to rising nuclear and missile threats from Pyongyang. The exercise saw destroyers equipped with Aegis radar systems come together in an attempt to tame the "rogue" nation.</p>

<p>The joint drill comes days after North Korea launched its ‘most powerful’ Hwasong-18 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The North launched this missile after accusing the US of flying spy planes through its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). It also condemned a recent visit by an American nuclear-powered cruise missile submarine to South Korea.</p>

<h2><strong>Joint drill aimed at mastering coordinated response to missile threats&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The US and its allies have been working on linking their information-sharing mechanisms on North Korea’s missile launch to better prepare for a well-coordinated response.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both South Korea and Japan are separately linked to the US radar system; however, a robust information-sharing regime is yet to be established between the two East Asian nations.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Japan, South Korea to link radars via US systems</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-south-korea-to-link-radars-via-us-systems-591107/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"We will effectively respond to North Korea's nuclear and missile threats with our military's strong response system and the trilateral cooperation," a South Korean Navy officer was quoted as saying by Reuters.</p>

<h2><strong>N Korea’s missile launching spree</strong></h2>

<p>Wednesday’s launch of the solid-fuel ICBM was the second attempt by North Korea this year aimed at intimidating its southern neighbours. North Korean state media Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said that the launch was “guided” by the country’s dictator Kim Jong Un, where the missile blasted off with a “grand explosion” that “shook the whole planet".</p>

<p>The launch drew condemnation from the US, Japan and South Korea, with allegations that the launch violated UN sanctions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-says-it-test-fired-solid-fuel-icbm-that-shook-whole-planet-614907"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;VIDEO: North Korea says it test-fired solid-fuel ICBM that 'shook whole planet'</strong></a></p>

<p>The South Korean military criticised North Korea's recent launch, stating that it constituted a significant provocation that jeopardises the peace and security of the Korean peninsula.</p>

<h2><strong>China urged to play&nbsp;constructive role</strong></h2>

<p>South Korea also asked China to play a constructive role in managing security threats in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A meeting between Chinese top diplomat Wang Yi and South Korea’s Foreign Minister Park Jin took place on Friday on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit held in Indonesia’s Jakarta. Following the meeting, a statement released by Seoul's foreign ministry said, “Minister Park ... stressed that it was more important than ever for the Chinese side to play a constructive role for the peace and stability of the Korean peninsula."</p>

<p>Washington has long accused China and Russia of shielding North Korea from sanctions and aiding its nuclear programme.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


US, South Korea and Japan held a joint missile defence exercise Sunday aimed at bolstering their response to rising nuclear and missile threats from Pyongyang. The exercise saw destroyers equipped with Aegis radar systems come together in an attempt to tame the "rogue" nation.

US, South Korea and Japan held a joint missile defence exercise Sunday aimed at bolstering their response to rising nuclear and missile threats from Pyongyang. The exercise saw destroyers equipped with Aegis radar systems come together in an attempt to tame the "rogue" nation. The joint drill comes days after North Korea launched its ‘most powerful’ Hwasong-18 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on Wednesday. The North launched this missile after accusing the US of flying spy planes through its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). It also condemned a recent visit by an American nuclear-powered cruise missile submarine to South Korea. Joint drill aimed at mastering coordinated response to missile threats The US and its allies have been working on linking their information-sharing mechanisms on North Korea’s missile launch to better prepare for a well-coordinated response. Both South Korea and Japan are separately linked to the US radar system; however, a robust information-sharing regime is yet to be established between the two East Asian nations. Watch: Japan, South Korea to link radars via US systems × "We will effectively respond to North Korea's nuclear and missile threats with our military's strong response system and the trilateral cooperation," a South Korean Navy officer was quoted as saying by Reuters. N Korea’s missile launching spree Wednesday’s launch of the solid-fuel ICBM was the second attempt by North Korea this year aimed at intimidating its southern neighbours. North Korean state media Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said that the launch was “guided” by the country’s dictator Kim Jong Un, where the missile blasted off with a “grand explosion” that “shook the whole planet". The launch drew condemnation from the US, Japan and South Korea, with allegations that the launch violated UN sanctions. Also read: VIDEO: North Korea says it test-fired solid-fuel ICBM that 'shook whole planet' The South Korean military criticised North Korea's recent launch, stating that it constituted a significant provocation that jeopardises the peace and security of the Korean peninsula. China urged to play constructive role South Korea also asked China to play a constructive role in managing security threats in the region. A meeting between Chinese top diplomat Wang Yi and South Korea’s Foreign Minister Park Jin took place on Friday on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit held in Indonesia’s Jakarta. Following the meeting, a statement released by Seoul's foreign ministry said, “Minister Park ... stressed that it was more important than ever for the Chinese side to play a constructive role for the peace and stability of the Korean peninsula." Washington has long accused China and Russia of shielding North Korea from sanctions and aiding its nuclear programme. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US, South Korea and Japan hold missile defence drill days after N Korea’s ICBM launch

North Korea is testing its intercontinental ballistic missile or ICBM. North Korea's newest long-range missile increases the chances it could deliver a strike to the US Mainland giving Kim Jong-un more leverage in his dealings with the Biden Administration. Even his sister has defended the country's missile launch as an act of self-defence according to reports.

North Korea to boost its nuclear arsenal?

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid7nEJFKOT1rb1" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>North Korea's launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) was an exercise of its right to self-defence "to deter dangerous military moves of hostile forces and safeguard the security of our state," the country's UN envoy told the Security Council on Thursday during a rare appearance. The 15-member Security Council met after North Korea said it tested on Wednesday its latest Hwasong-18 ICBM, adding the weapon is the core of its nuclear strike force.</p>

<p>"We categorically reject and condemn the convening of the Security Council briefing by the United States and its followers," North Korea's UN Ambassador Kim Song told the council.</p>

<p>North Korea last spoke at a council meeting on its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes in December 2017, diplomats said.</p>

<p>North Korea - formally known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) - has been under UN sanctions for its missile and nuclear programs since 2006. This includes a ban on the development of ballistic missiles.</p>

<p>For the past several years, the council has been divided over how to deal with Pyongyang. Russia and China, veto powers along with the United States, Britain and France, have said more sanctions will not help and want such measures to be eased.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-says-it-test-fired-solid-fuel-icbm-that-shook-whole-planet-614907"><strong>VIDEO: North Korea says it test-fired solid-fuel ICBM that 'shook whole planet'</strong></a></p>

<p>China and Russia blame joint military drills by the United States and South Korea for provoking Pyongyang, while Washington accuses Beijing and Moscow of emboldening North Korea by shielding it from more sanctions.</p>

<p>"Russia and China have prevented this council from speaking with one voice. And with these repeated launches, Pyongyang is demonstrating it feels emboldened," Deputy US Ambassador to the United Nations, Jeffrey DeLaurentis, told the council.</p>

<h2>China slams NATO</h2>

<p>DeLaurentis said the US was committed to diplomacy and "publicly and privately and at senior levels we have repeatedly urged the DPRK to engage in dialogue." He said Washington had made clear there were no preconditions for engagement and it would "discuss any topic of concern to Pyongyang."</p>

<p>"The DPRK has not responded to our offers," he said.</p>

<p>China's UN Ambassador Zhang Jun told the council that Beijing was committed to the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula and the settlement of the issue through dialogue.</p>

<p>He described the situation as "tense" and said it was getting "ever more confrontational." China has "taken note" of North Korea's latest missile launch, Zhang said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;North Korea's first spy missile gets final nod from Kim Jong-Un</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-18="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-31="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-koreas-first-spy-missile-gets-final-nod-from-kim-jong-un-593435/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-says-it-test-fired-solid-fuel-icbm-that-shook-whole-planet-614907#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<p>"The Cold War has long since ended, but the specter of the Cold War mentality lingers. It has not only rendered the Peninsula issue intractable, but also intensified antagonism and conflict around the world," he said.</p>

<p>He went on to slam a communique by NATO leaders this week, telling the council it was as "long-winded as it was harping the same old tunes filled with Cold War mentality and ideological prejudices." Zhang said NATO should do some "soul-searching."</p>

<p>NATO leaders in the communique said China challenged NATO's interests, security and values with its "ambitions and coercive policies."</p>

<p>"China does not cause trouble, nor does it fear trouble," Zhang said. "We stand ready to respond firmly and forcefully to any act that violates China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, undermine China's development and security interests and breach the peace and stability in China's neighborhood."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


North Korea's launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) was an exercise of its right to self-defence "to deter dangerous military moves of hostile forces and safeguard the security of our state," the country's UN envoy told the Security Council on Thursday during a rare appearance.

North Korea's launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) was an exercise of its right to self-defence "to deter dangerous military moves of hostile forces and safeguard the security of our state," the country's UN envoy told the Security Council on Thursday during a rare appearance. The 15-member Security Council met after North Korea said it tested on Wednesday its latest Hwasong-18 ICBM, adding the weapon is the core of its nuclear strike force. "We categorically reject and condemn the convening of the Security Council briefing by the United States and its followers," North Korea's UN Ambassador Kim Song told the council. North Korea last spoke at a council meeting on its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes in December 2017, diplomats said. North Korea - formally known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) - has been under UN sanctions for its missile and nuclear programs since 2006. This includes a ban on the development of ballistic missiles. For the past several years, the council has been divided over how to deal with Pyongyang. Russia and China, veto powers along with the United States, Britain and France, have said more sanctions will not help and want such measures to be eased. VIDEO: North Korea says it test-fired solid-fuel ICBM that 'shook whole planet' China and Russia blame joint military drills by the United States and South Korea for provoking Pyongyang, while Washington accuses Beijing and Moscow of emboldening North Korea by shielding it from more sanctions. "Russia and China have prevented this council from speaking with one voice. And with these repeated launches, Pyongyang is demonstrating it feels emboldened," Deputy US Ambassador to the United Nations, Jeffrey DeLaurentis, told the council. China slams NATO DeLaurentis said the US was committed to diplomacy and "publicly and privately and at senior levels we have repeatedly urged the DPRK to engage in dialogue." He said Washington had made clear there were no preconditions for engagement and it would "discuss any topic of concern to Pyongyang." "The DPRK has not responded to our offers," he said. China's UN Ambassador Zhang Jun told the council that Beijing was committed to the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula and the settlement of the issue through dialogue. He described the situation as "tense" and said it was getting "ever more confrontational." China has "taken note" of North Korea's latest missile launch, Zhang said. Watch: North Korea's first spy missile gets final nod from Kim Jong-Un × "The Cold War has long since ended, but the specter of the Cold War mentality lingers. It has not only rendered the Peninsula issue intractable, but also intensified antagonism and conflict around the world," he said. He went on to slam a communique by NATO leaders this week, telling the council it was as "long-winded as it was harping the same old tunes filled with Cold War mentality and ideological prejudices." Zhang said NATO should do some "soul-searching." NATO leaders in the communique said China challenged NATO's interests, security and values with its "ambitions and coercive policies." "China does not cause trouble, nor does it fear trouble," Zhang said. "We stand ready to respond firmly and forcefully to any act that violates China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, undermine China's development and security interests and breach the peace and stability in China's neighborhood." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

North Korea defends missile launch in rare appearance at UN Security Council

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has been seen with a smartphone even when North Korea is banned from import or export of electronic devices. The question arises is the top leader of North Korea using a smuggled phone?

Kim Jong Un flaunts smartphone while electronics imports N. Korea remain banned

<p>The United States on Wednesday released a statement saying that it "strongly condemns" North Korea's latest ballistic projectile launch and also urged Pyongyang to end its destabilising actions and come to the table for negotiations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This launch is a brazen violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions and needlessly raises tensions and risks destabilizing the security situation in the region," National Security Council spokesperson Adam Hodge said in a statement.</p>

<p>South Korea's military said that North Korea fired a long-range ballistic missile in a lofted trajectory from the Pyongyang area at about 10:00 am (0100 GMT).</p>

<p>The missile launch happened after North Korea cautioned the United States to shoot down the spy planes that violated its airspace.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-suspected-long-range-ballistic-missile-12th-this-year-614512">North Korea fires suspected long-range ballistic missile, 12th this year</a></p>

<p>Currently, the relations between both the Korean countries are facing a setback with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un calling for increased weapon development, including tactical nukes.</p>

<p>The latest test launch "demonstrates that the DPRK continues to prioritize its unlawful weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs over the well-being of its people," Hodge said.</p>

<p>"We urge all countries to condemn these violations and call on the DPRK to come to the table for serious negotiations," the spokesman added.</p>

<p>"The door has not closed on diplomacy, but Pyongyang must immediately cease its destabilizing actions and instead choose diplomatic engagement," he continued, stressing the United States will "take all necessary measures" to ensure its security and that of its allies South Korea and Japan. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>North Korea condemns US&nbsp;for violating airspace</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday, North Korea had accused the United States of violating its airspace by carrying out surveillance flights and stated that, even though Pyongyang was exercising restraint, and warned it may shoot down such flights.</p>

<p>It further condemned the plans of Washington of deploying a nuclear missile submarine near the Korean peninsula. North Korea's Ministry of National Defence spokesperson said "provocative" flights were flown by US spy aircraft this month, as one reconnaissance plane intruded into the country's airspace over the East Sea "several times".</p>

<p>"There is no guarantee that such a shocking accident as the downing of the US Air Force strategic reconnaissance plane will not happen in the East Sea of Korea," said the spokesperson in a statement, released by the official Korean Central News Agency.</p>

<p>Pyongyang further released a statement and slammed United States' plan to deploy strategic nuclear assets to the Korean peninsula as "the most undisguised nuclear blackmail" to North Korea which poses a grave threat to global and regional security.</p>

<p>"The present situation clearly proves that the situation of the Korean peninsula is coming closer to the threshold of nuclear conflict due to the US provocative military action," it stated.</p>

<p>"Whether the extreme situation, desired by nobody, is created or not on the Korean peninsula depends on the future action of the US, and if any sudden situation happens ... the US will be held totally accountable for it," it added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The United States on Wednesday released a statement saying that it "strongly condemns" North Korea's latest ballistic projectile launch and also urged Pyongyang to end its destabilising actions and come to the table for negotiations.

The United States on Wednesday released a statement saying that it "strongly condemns" North Korea's latest ballistic projectile launch and also urged Pyongyang to end its destabilising actions and come to the table for negotiations. "This launch is a brazen violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions and needlessly raises tensions and risks destabilizing the security situation in the region," National Security Council spokesperson Adam Hodge said in a statement. South Korea's military said that North Korea fired a long-range ballistic missile in a lofted trajectory from the Pyongyang area at about 10:00 am (0100 GMT). The missile launch happened after North Korea cautioned the United States to shoot down the spy planes that violated its airspace. Also read: North Korea fires suspected long-range ballistic missile, 12th this year Currently, the relations between both the Korean countries are facing a setback with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un calling for increased weapon development, including tactical nukes. The latest test launch "demonstrates that the DPRK continues to prioritize its unlawful weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs over the well-being of its people," Hodge said. "We urge all countries to condemn these violations and call on the DPRK to come to the table for serious negotiations," the spokesman added. "The door has not closed on diplomacy, but Pyongyang must immediately cease its destabilizing actions and instead choose diplomatic engagement," he continued, stressing the United States will "take all necessary measures" to ensure its security and that of its allies South Korea and Japan. North Korea condemns US for violating airspace On Monday, North Korea had accused the United States of violating its airspace by carrying out surveillance flights and stated that, even though Pyongyang was exercising restraint, and warned it may shoot down such flights. It further condemned the plans of Washington of deploying a nuclear missile submarine near the Korean peninsula. North Korea's Ministry of National Defence spokesperson said "provocative" flights were flown by US spy aircraft this month, as one reconnaissance plane intruded into the country's airspace over the East Sea "several times". "There is no guarantee that such a shocking accident as the downing of the US Air Force strategic reconnaissance plane will not happen in the East Sea of Korea," said the spokesperson in a statement, released by the official Korean Central News Agency. Pyongyang further released a statement and slammed United States' plan to deploy strategic nuclear assets to the Korean peninsula as "the most undisguised nuclear blackmail" to North Korea which poses a grave threat to global and regional security. "The present situation clearly proves that the situation of the Korean peninsula is coming closer to the threshold of nuclear conflict due to the US provocative military action," it stated. "Whether the extreme situation, desired by nobody, is created or not on the Korean peninsula depends on the future action of the US, and if any sudden situation happens ... the US will be held totally accountable for it," it added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

United States 'strongly condemns' North Korea ballistic missile launch, says White House

<p>Online as well as the political world is abuzz over an interesting development. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been seen with a smartphone. Usually, this would be a normal thing but when you consider that North Korea is banned from import or export of electronic devices, question arises, is the top leader of North Korea using a smuggled phone? Moreover, the 'foldable phone' has featured in a photo taken by the country's official KCNA news agency.</p>

<p>The device, silver in colour, was seen encased in a black cover on a table Kim Jong Un is sitting at when he was observing the launch of North Korea's newest and most powerful ballistic missile this week. It was a solid-fuel Hwasong-18 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).</p>

<p>AFP reported that the phone looked strikingly similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip phone or China's Huawei Pocket S phones.</p>

<p>The photo fuelled speculation immediately.</p>

<p>"If the object in the photo is a foldable phone, it is highly likely that it was secretly smuggled to North Korea via China," South Korea's Joongang Ilbo newspaper reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kim Jong Un is known for his love of gadgets. He has in past, been pictured using what looked like Apple products, including iPads and Macbooks.</p>

<p>United States' Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) estimates that only about 19 per cent of the North Korean population has access to mobile phones.</p>

<h2><strong>The missile launch</strong></h2>

<p>The ICBM launched on July 12 has been fired only once before, in April.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, the missile flew 1001 kilometres at a maximum altitude of 6,648 km before splashing into the East Sea, according to KCNA. The East Sea is also known as the Sea of Japan.</p>

<p>KCNA further said that the launch was a "grand explosion" that shook "the whole planet". Footage on the state media showed the missile blasting off into the sky.</p>

<p>Kim vowed that "a series of stronger military offensive" would be launched until the United States and South Korea change their policies towards North Korea, the agency added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Citing the "unstable situation" on the Korean peninsula, Kim also called for "more intense efforts" to boost North Korea's nuclear arsenal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The confirmation of the launch -- which the South Korean military had reported on Wednesday -- came with relations between the two Koreas at one of their lowest points ever.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Diplomacy has stalled. Kim Jong Un has called for ramping up weapons deployment. This includes tactical nukes.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Online as well as the political world is abuzz over an interesting development. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been seen with a smartphone. Usually, this would be a normal thing but when you consider that North Korea is banned from import or export of electronic devices, question arises, is the top leader of North Korea using a smuggled phone?

Online as well as the political world is abuzz over an interesting development. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been seen with a smartphone. Usually, this would be a normal thing but when you consider that North Korea is banned from import or export of electronic devices, question arises, is the top leader of North Korea using a smuggled phone? Moreover, the 'foldable phone' has featured in a photo taken by the country's official KCNA news agency. The device, silver in colour, was seen encased in a black cover on a table Kim Jong Un is sitting at when he was observing the launch of North Korea's newest and most powerful ballistic missile this week. It was a solid-fuel Hwasong-18 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). AFP reported that the phone looked strikingly similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip phone or China's Huawei Pocket S phones. The photo fuelled speculation immediately. "If the object in the photo is a foldable phone, it is highly likely that it was secretly smuggled to North Korea via China," South Korea's Joongang Ilbo newspaper reported. Kim Jong Un is known for his love of gadgets. He has in past, been pictured using what looked like Apple products, including iPads and Macbooks. United States' Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) estimates that only about 19 per cent of the North Korean population has access to mobile phones. The missile launch The ICBM launched on July 12 has been fired only once before, in April. On Wednesday, the missile flew 1001 kilometres at a maximum altitude of 6,648 km before splashing into the East Sea, according to KCNA. The East Sea is also known as the Sea of Japan. KCNA further said that the launch was a "grand explosion" that shook "the whole planet". Footage on the state media showed the missile blasting off into the sky. Kim vowed that "a series of stronger military offensive" would be launched until the United States and South Korea change their policies towards North Korea, the agency added. Citing the "unstable situation" on the Korean peninsula, Kim also called for "more intense efforts" to boost North Korea's nuclear arsenal. The confirmation of the launch -- which the South Korean military had reported on Wednesday -- came with relations between the two Koreas at one of their lowest points ever. Diplomacy has stalled. Kim Jong Un has called for ramping up weapons deployment. This includes tactical nukes. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

'Is it smuggled'? Kim Jong Un flaunts smartphone while electronics imports to North Korea remain banned

<p>North Korea revealed Thursday it launched its new solid-fuel-based intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) called Hwasong-18. The launch, which took place on Wednesday, came after Pyongyang blasted the US for allegedly violating North Korea’s airspace using a spy drone. The missile reportedly flew 1,001 kilometres at a maximum altitude of 6,648 km before falling into the East Sea.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">North Korea has released footage of the most recent Hwasong-18 ICBM launch. The secondary video was released highlighting the stage separation.<br />
<br />
North Korea successfully test-launched its Hwasong-18 solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic 👇 <a href="https://t.co/WkFKXY0gbi">pic.twitter.com/WkFKXY0gbi</a></p>
— Naren Mukherjee (@NMukherjee6) <a href="https://twitter.com/NMukherjee6/status/1679347334495485953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>This marks only the second time when a solid-fuel-based ICBM has been launched from North Korea, with the last launch attempt taking place in April this year.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Launch guided by leader Kim Jong Un</strong></h2>

<p>North Korean state media Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said that the launch was “guided” by the country’s dictator Kim Jong Un, where the missile blasted off with a “grand explosion” that “shook the whole planet".<br />
Kim also vowed "a series of stronger military offensive" against US and South Korea until they change their “hostile” policies towards the North.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;North Korea's first spy missile gets final nod from Kim Jong-Un</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-koreas-first-spy-missile-gets-final-nod-from-kim-jong-un-593435/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Kim has previously called Hwasong-18 North Korea’s most powerful nuclear weapon. KCNA noted the launch came “at a grave period when the military security situation on the Korean Peninsula and in the region has reached the phase of nuclear crisis beyond the Cold War era as the US and its vassal forces’ unprecedented military provocations against the DPRK have been intensified.”</p>

<h2><strong>South Korea and USA’s response</strong></h2>

<p>Seoul and Washington have increased their collaboration in security measures as a response to recent events. They have pledged that if Pyongyang were to employ its nuclear weapons against their allies, it would face nuclear retaliation and the potential collapse of its current government.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-strongly-condemns-north-korea-ballistic-missile-launch-says-white-house-614867"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;United States `strongly condemns` North Korea ballistic missile launch, says White House</strong></a></p>

<p>The South Korean military criticised North Korea's recent launch, stating that it constituted a significant provocation that jeopardises the peace and security of the Korean peninsula. Furthermore, the launch is in violation of United Nations sanctions imposed on Pyongyang.&nbsp;South Korea has called on North Korea to cease such actions.</p>

<p>The United Nations, United States, and their allies, including France, strongly condemned the launch as well. The US National Security Council spokesperson, Adam Hodge, emphasised that this act flagrantly violates multiple UN Security Council resolutions and needlessly escalates tensions, posing a risk to regional security.</p>

<h2><strong>Why North Korea is developing solid-fuel-based missiles?</strong></h2>

<p>The use of solid fuel in missiles has notable advantages. Solid fuel is denser and burns quickly, resulting in rapid thrust generation. Additionally, it can be stored for longer periods without degradation or breakdown, which is a common problem with liquid fuel.</p>

<p>According to Vann Van Diepen, a former US government weapons expert currently affiliated with the North Korea monitoring project, 38 North, solid-fuel missiles are easier and safer to operate. They require less logistical support, making them more difficult to detect and increasing their survivability compared to liquid-fuel weapons.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


North Korea revealed Thursday it launched its new solid-fuel-based intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) called Hwasong-18. The launch, which took place on Wednesday, came after Pyongyang blasted the US for allegedly violating North Korea’s airspace using a spy drone.

North Korea revealed Thursday it launched its new solid-fuel-based intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) called Hwasong-18. The launch, which took place on Wednesday, came after Pyongyang blasted the US for allegedly violating North Korea’s airspace using a spy drone. The missile reportedly flew 1,001 kilometres at a maximum altitude of 6,648 km before falling into the East Sea. North Korea has released footage of the most recent Hwasong-18 ICBM launch. The secondary video was released highlighting the stage separation. North Korea successfully test-launched its Hwasong-18 solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic 👇 pic.twitter.com/WkFKXY0gbi — Naren Mukherjee (@NMukherjee6) July 13, 2023 × This marks only the second time when a solid-fuel-based ICBM has been launched from North Korea, with the last launch attempt taking place in April this year. Launch guided by leader Kim Jong Un North Korean state media Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said that the launch was “guided” by the country’s dictator Kim Jong Un, where the missile blasted off with a “grand explosion” that “shook the whole planet". Kim also vowed "a series of stronger military offensive" against US and South Korea until they change their “hostile” policies towards the North. Watch: North Korea's first spy missile gets final nod from Kim Jong-Un × Kim has previously called Hwasong-18 North Korea’s most powerful nuclear weapon. KCNA noted the launch came “at a grave period when the military security situation on the Korean Peninsula and in the region has reached the phase of nuclear crisis beyond the Cold War era as the US and its vassal forces’ unprecedented military provocations against the DPRK have been intensified.” South Korea and USA’s response Seoul and Washington have increased their collaboration in security measures as a response to recent events. They have pledged that if Pyongyang were to employ its nuclear weapons against their allies, it would face nuclear retaliation and the potential collapse of its current government. Also read: United States `strongly condemns` North Korea ballistic missile launch, says White House The South Korean military criticised North Korea's recent launch, stating that it constituted a significant provocation that jeopardises the peace and security of the Korean peninsula. Furthermore, the launch is in violation of United Nations sanctions imposed on Pyongyang. South Korea has called on North Korea to cease such actions. The United Nations, United States, and their allies, including France, strongly condemned the launch as well. The US National Security Council spokesperson, Adam Hodge, emphasised that this act flagrantly violates multiple UN Security Council resolutions and needlessly escalates tensions, posing a risk to regional security. Why North Korea is developing solid-fuel-based missiles? The use of solid fuel in missiles has notable advantages. Solid fuel is denser and burns quickly, resulting in rapid thrust generation. Additionally, it can be stored for longer periods without degradation or breakdown, which is a common problem with liquid fuel. According to Vann Van Diepen, a former US government weapons expert currently affiliated with the North Korea monitoring project, 38 North, solid-fuel missiles are easier and safer to operate. They require less logistical support, making them more difficult to detect and increasing their survivability compared to liquid-fuel weapons. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

VIDEO: North Korea says it test-fired solid-fuel ICBM that 'shook whole planet'

<p>South Korea and Japan said on Wednesday (July 12) that North Korea has fired a ballistic missile, which is said to be its 12th this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes amid fierce claims and counterclaims over US "spy" planes "violating" North Korean airspace. The South Korean military said it was a long-range missile.</p>

<p>Referring to the body of water, also known as the Sea of Japan, the Joint Chiefs of Staff said, "North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile into the East Sea."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Japan's coast guard noted that the missile seemed to land outside Japan's exclusive economic zone, roughly 550 kilometres east of the Korean peninsula at around 11:13 am local time (0213 GMT).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kims-sister-accuses-us-of-illegal-intrusion-of-airspace-by-surveillance-and-spy-planes-614324">Kim’s sister alleges ‘illegal intrusion’ of North Korean airspace by US surveillance, spy planes</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said that the military "detected what was presumed to be a long-range ballistic missile shot from the Pyongyang area around 1000 (0100 GMT) toward the East Sea".&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far this year, North Korea has successfully test-fired its first solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) and attempted to launch its first spy satellite on a new launch vehicle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, UN Security Council resolutions prohibit North Korea from using ballistic missile technology, including for satellite launches.</p>

<h2><strong>Claims over US spy planes</strong></h2>

<p>The US and North Korea have been engaged in a fiery altercation over claims of US spy planes, with Pyongyang on Monday condemning Washington's plans to deploy a nuclear missile submarine near the Korean peninsula.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A spokesperson for the North Korean Ministry of National Defence said the United States had "intensified espionage activities beyond the wartime level", citing "provocative" spy plane flights for eight straight days this month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement, carried by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), said one reconnaissance plane intruded into North Korean airspace over the East Sea "several times".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-marines-without-confirmed-leader-for-first-time-in-100-yrs-614171">US Marines without confirmed leader for first time in 100 years</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"There is no guarantee that such a shocking accident as the downing of the US Air Force strategic reconnaissance plane will not happen in the East Sea of Korea," the spokesperson added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, issued a warning to the US after Pyongyang said that it scrambled warplanes to ward off an American spy plane that had intruded into its exclusive economic zone.</p>

<p>Kim's sister said, "The intrusion into the DPRK's 200-nautical mile economic water zone by the reconnaissance asset of the hostile country…is clearly a grave encroachment upon the sovereignty and security of the DPRK."&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added that "a shocking incident would occur in the long run in the 20-40 section in which the US spy planes habitually intrude into the sky above the economic water zone" of North Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


South Korea and Japan said on Wednesday (July 12) that North Korea has fired a ballistic missile, which is said to be its 12th this year. This comes amid fierce claims and counterclaims over US "spy" planes "violating" North Korean airspace.

South Korea and Japan said on Wednesday (July 12) that North Korea has fired a ballistic missile, which is said to be its 12th this year. This comes amid fierce claims and counterclaims over US "spy" planes "violating" North Korean airspace. The South Korean military said it was a long-range missile. Referring to the body of water, also known as the Sea of Japan, the Joint Chiefs of Staff said, "North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile into the East Sea." Japan's coast guard noted that the missile seemed to land outside Japan's exclusive economic zone, roughly 550 kilometres east of the Korean peninsula at around 11:13 am local time (0213 GMT). Also read: Kim’s sister alleges ‘illegal intrusion’ of North Korean airspace by US surveillance, spy planes Meanwhile, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said that the military "detected what was presumed to be a long-range ballistic missile shot from the Pyongyang area around 1000 (0100 GMT) toward the East Sea". So far this year, North Korea has successfully test-fired its first solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) and attempted to launch its first spy satellite on a new launch vehicle. Notably, UN Security Council resolutions prohibit North Korea from using ballistic missile technology, including for satellite launches. Claims over US spy planes The US and North Korea have been engaged in a fiery altercation over claims of US spy planes, with Pyongyang on Monday condemning Washington's plans to deploy a nuclear missile submarine near the Korean peninsula. A spokesperson for the North Korean Ministry of National Defence said the United States had "intensified espionage activities beyond the wartime level", citing "provocative" spy plane flights for eight straight days this month. The statement, carried by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), said one reconnaissance plane intruded into North Korean airspace over the East Sea "several times". Also read: US Marines without confirmed leader for first time in 100 years "There is no guarantee that such a shocking accident as the downing of the US Air Force strategic reconnaissance plane will not happen in the East Sea of Korea," the spokesperson added. Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, issued a warning to the US after Pyongyang said that it scrambled warplanes to ward off an American spy plane that had intruded into its exclusive economic zone. Kim's sister said, "The intrusion into the DPRK's 200-nautical mile economic water zone by the reconnaissance asset of the hostile country…is clearly a grave encroachment upon the sovereignty and security of the DPRK." She added that "a shocking incident would occur in the long run in the 20-40 section in which the US spy planes habitually intrude into the sky above the economic water zone" of North Korea. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

North Korea fires suspected long-range ballistic missile, 12th this year

Japan strongly condemned North Korea's latest missile launch which is its 12th ballistic missile of 2023.

North Korea fires 'unidentifiable ballistic missile': Seoul, South Korea

<p>Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, issued a warning to the United States after Pyongyang said that it scrambled warplanes to ward off an American spy plane that&nbsp;had intruded in its exclusive economic zone.</p>

<p>Earlier on Tuesday, the Korean Central News Agency carried a statement which said that the North Korean air force deployed a sortie of planes, which forced the US aircraft to "retreat".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kim said, "The intrusion into the DPRK's 200-nautical mile economic water zone by the reconnaissance asset of the hostile country…is clearly a grave encroachment upon the sovereignty and security of the DPRK."&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added that "a shocking incident would occur in the long run in the 20-40 section in which the US spy planes habitually intrude into the sky above the economic water zone" of North Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pyongyang accused the US air force of illegal intrusion stating that their drones and spy planes flew along its coasts for eight straight days, and the aircraft repeatedly violated the North Korean&nbsp;airspace.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-marines-without-confirmed-leader-for-first-time-in-100-yrs-614171">US Marines without confirmed leader for first time in 100 years</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As per North Korea's Defence Ministry, the US apparently flew a strategic reconnaissance plane into its "inviolable airspace" several times. The nuclear-powered nation even warned that the US aircraft might be shot down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The defence ministry said it was an intrusion, but Kim went on to accuse the US of conducting aerial surveillance over the North's exclusive economic zone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kim said that the US Air Force infiltrated into the North's "economic water zone" on Monday off the east coast of the Korean peninsula in the sky above the sea 435 km east of Tongchon of Gangwon Province and 276 km southeast of Uljin of North Gyeongsang Province.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the Pentagon refuted Pyongyang's accusations of airspace violations and said the US military had adhered to international law. Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh told reporters: "So those accusations are just accusations." &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/solomon-islands-signs-controversial-policing-deal-with-china-upgrades-ties-with-beijing-614126">Solomon Islands signs controversial policing deal with China, upgrades ties with Beijing</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>On being asked about Pyongyang’s&nbsp;accusations at a regular news briefing, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller on Monday urged North Korea "to refrain from escalatory actions" and reiterated a call for it "to engage in serious and sustained diplomacy".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement released on Monday night, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said Pyongyang was escalating tensions by using threats over what it said was "normal flight activity" by the South Korea-US alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Kim criticised South as she said, "As regards the provocation by the US forces, the military of the 'ROK' again impudently took the lead in denying the encroachment on the DPRK's sovereignty, while shamelessly asserting that it was a 'normal flight'."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, issued a warning to the United States after Pyongyang said that it scrambled warplanes to ward off an American spy plane that had intruded in its exclusive economic zone.

Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, issued a warning to the United States after Pyongyang said that it scrambled warplanes to ward off an American spy plane that had intruded in its exclusive economic zone. Earlier on Tuesday, the Korean Central News Agency carried a statement which said that the North Korean air force deployed a sortie of planes, which forced the US aircraft to "retreat". Kim said, "The intrusion into the DPRK's 200-nautical mile economic water zone by the reconnaissance asset of the hostile country…is clearly a grave encroachment upon the sovereignty and security of the DPRK." She added that "a shocking incident would occur in the long run in the 20-40 section in which the US spy planes habitually intrude into the sky above the economic water zone" of North Korea. Pyongyang accused the US air force of illegal intrusion stating that their drones and spy planes flew along its coasts for eight straight days, and the aircraft repeatedly violated the North Korean airspace. Also read: US Marines without confirmed leader for first time in 100 years As per North Korea's Defence Ministry, the US apparently flew a strategic reconnaissance plane into its "inviolable airspace" several times. The nuclear-powered nation even warned that the US aircraft might be shot down. The defence ministry said it was an intrusion, but Kim went on to accuse the US of conducting aerial surveillance over the North's exclusive economic zone. Kim said that the US Air Force infiltrated into the North's "economic water zone" on Monday off the east coast of the Korean peninsula in the sky above the sea 435 km east of Tongchon of Gangwon Province and 276 km southeast of Uljin of North Gyeongsang Province. Earlier, the Pentagon refuted Pyongyang's accusations of airspace violations and said the US military had adhered to international law. Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh told reporters: "So those accusations are just accusations." Also read: Solomon Islands signs controversial policing deal with China, upgrades ties with Beijing On being asked about Pyongyang’s accusations at a regular news briefing, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller on Monday urged North Korea "to refrain from escalatory actions" and reiterated a call for it "to engage in serious and sustained diplomacy". In a statement released on Monday night, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said Pyongyang was escalating tensions by using threats over what it said was "normal flight activity" by the South Korea-US alliance. But Kim criticised South as she said, "As regards the provocation by the US forces, the military of the 'ROK' again impudently took the lead in denying the encroachment on the DPRK's sovereignty, while shamelessly asserting that it was a 'normal flight'." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kim’s sister alleges ‘illegal intrusion’ of North Korean airspace by US surveillance, spy planes

Here, we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: North Korea has denounced the United States' move to deploy a nuclear missile submarine to waters near the Korean Peninsula.

North Korea condemns US for naval submarine deployment

<p>North Korea on Monday accused the United States of violating its airspace by carrying out surveillance flights and stated that, even though Pyongyang was exercising restraint, and warned it may shoot down such flights.<br />
<br />
It further condemned the plans of Washington of deploying a nuclear missile submarine near the Korean peninsula. North Korea's Ministry of National Defence spokesperson said "provocative" flights were flown by US spy aircraft this month, as one reconnaissance plane intruded into the country's airspace over the East Sea "several times".<br />
<br />
"There is no guarantee that such a shocking accident as the downing of the US Air Force strategic reconnaissance plane will not happen in the East Sea of Korea," said the spokesperson in a statement, released by the official Korean Central News Agency.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/s-korea-retrieves-wreckage-of-n-korean-military-satellite-from-sea-in-major-intelligence-win-612048">'No military utility': S Korea retrieves N Korean satellite from sea in major intelligence win</a></p>

<p>The spokesperson mentioned the past incidents when US aircraft were shot down by Pyongyang and warned that Washington will pay for its "frantically staged" air espionage.</p>

<h2><strong>'Nuclear blackmail'</strong></h2>

<p>In the statement, it&nbsp; slammed United States' plan to deploy strategic nuclear assets to the Korean peninsula as "the most undisguised nuclear blackmail" to North Korea which poses a grave threat to global and regional security.<br />
<br />
"The present situation clearly proves that the situation of the Korean peninsula is coming closer to the threshold of nuclear conflict due to the US provocative military action," it stated.<br />
<br />
"Whether the extreme situation, desired by nobody, is created or not on the Korean peninsula depends on the future action of the US, and if any sudden situation happens ... the US will be held totally accountable for it," it added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Protests intensify in Japan and South Korea over Fukushima water release</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/protests-intensify-in-japan-and-south-korea-over-fukushima-water-release-613570/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In April, Washington stated that a nuclear ballistic submarine will be sent to them to visit a port in South Korea in decades. Multiple sanctions-busting launches have been conducted by North Korea this year, which includes test-firing its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missiles and trying to put a military spy satellite into orbit in May.<br />
<br />
South Korea and the United States recently ramped up defence co-operation as they staged joint military exercises with high-profile US strategic assets and advanced stealth jets.<br />
<br />
A US B-52 strategic had participated in air military drills with South Korea in June in a show of force after the failed launch of a North Korea's spy satellite in May.<br />
<br />
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol stated it was time to show "the international community’s determination to deter North Korea’s nuclear weapons programme is stronger than North Korea’s desire to develop nuclear weapons.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<main>
<section>
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-19="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-30="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</section>
</main>


North Korea on Monday accused the United States of violating its airspace by carrying out surveillance flights and stated that, even though Pyongyang was exercising restraint, and warned it may shoot down such flights.

North Korea on Monday accused the United States of violating its airspace by carrying out surveillance flights and stated that, even though Pyongyang was exercising restraint, and warned it may shoot down such flights. It further condemned the plans of Washington of deploying a nuclear missile submarine near the Korean peninsula. North Korea's Ministry of National Defence spokesperson said "provocative" flights were flown by US spy aircraft this month, as one reconnaissance plane intruded into the country's airspace over the East Sea "several times". "There is no guarantee that such a shocking accident as the downing of the US Air Force strategic reconnaissance plane will not happen in the East Sea of Korea," said the spokesperson in a statement, released by the official Korean Central News Agency. ALSO READ | 'No military utility': S Korea retrieves N Korean satellite from sea in major intelligence win The spokesperson mentioned the past incidents when US aircraft were shot down by Pyongyang and warned that Washington will pay for its "frantically staged" air espionage. 'Nuclear blackmail' In the statement, it slammed United States' plan to deploy strategic nuclear assets to the Korean peninsula as "the most undisguised nuclear blackmail" to North Korea which poses a grave threat to global and regional security. "The present situation clearly proves that the situation of the Korean peninsula is coming closer to the threshold of nuclear conflict due to the US provocative military action," it stated. "Whether the extreme situation, desired by nobody, is created or not on the Korean peninsula depends on the future action of the US, and if any sudden situation happens ... the US will be held totally accountable for it," it added. WATCH | Protests intensify in Japan and South Korea over Fukushima water release In April, Washington stated that a nuclear ballistic submarine will be sent to them to visit a port in South Korea in decades. Multiple sanctions-busting launches have been conducted by North Korea this year, which includes test-firing its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missiles and trying to put a military spy satellite into orbit in May. South Korea and the United States recently ramped up defence co-operation as they staged joint military exercises with high-profile US strategic assets and advanced stealth jets. A US B-52 strategic had participated in air military drills with South Korea in June in a show of force after the failed launch of a North Korea's spy satellite in May. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol stated it was time to show "the international community’s determination to deter North Korea’s nuclear weapons programme is stronger than North Korea’s desire to develop nuclear weapons.” (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

North Korea accuses US of violating airspace, condemns move to deploy nuclear missile submarine

North Korea has blown the whistle against the US. The nation accused the US of violating its airspace by conducting surveillance flights. Pyongyang said it was exercising restraint but warned that it would shoot down such flights.

Why is North Korea accusing the US of 'NUCLEAR BLACKMAIL'?

<p>South Korea said Wednesday that it has recovered the wreckage of a North Korean satellite from the sea off the country’s coast. The satellite was launched on May 31 but ended up sinking into the sea following a botched-up takeoff. Though it can be considered a major intelligence win for Seoul, experts have found the object had little military value.</p>

<p>The South Korean military said last month that it had recovered parts of the rocket used in the failed launch.</p>

<p>"After detailed analysis on major parts of North Korea's space launch vehicle and satellite which were salvaged, South Korean and US experts have assessed that they had no military utility as a reconnaissance satellite at all," the military said in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>Salvage operations ended</strong></h2>

<p>With the recovery of the satellite wreckage, the South Korean military has ended its salvage operation which was started soon after the object plunged into the Yellow Sea off South Korea’s west coast. As per officials, it is the first time South Korea has acquired crucial parts of North Korea’s military satellite.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;North Korea's first spy missile gets final nod from Kim Jong-Un</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-koreas-first-spy-missile-gets-final-nod-from-kim-jong-un-593435/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>According to Reuters, the South Korean Navy and deep-sea divers were involved in the efforts to retrieve the wreckage.</p>

<p>The salvage operation could help Seoul gather more evidence of possible sanction violations by Pyongyang in the procurement of the equipment used in manufacturing the satellite. Also, the wreckage could provide details about North Korea’s secretive rocket programme.</p>

<h2><strong>Spy satellite could target US, Japan and South Korea</strong></h2>

<p>North Korea has expressed its intention to deploy spy satellites in order to monitor military installations in South Korea and Japan, where the United States maintains a significant presence.<br />
Despite being prohibited by United Nations Security Council resolutions from conducting ballistic missile tests, North Korea has consistently argued that it has the right to pursue a civilian space programme for launching satellites.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-vows-to-punish-the-us-on-73rd-anniversary-of-korean-war-608664"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;North Korea vows to 'punish the US' on 73rd anniversary of Korean war</strong></a></p>

<p>However, the US and its allies have cautioned that the technology developed through North Korea's space programme could potentially be utilised to enhance its ballistic missile capabilities.</p>

<p>Under the leadership of Kim Jong Un, North Korea has been intensifying its efforts to enhance the domestic technology and components used in its latest range of missiles.</p>

<p>However, the country still relies on external sources for certain materials and components, which it is unable to obtain due to international sanctions imposed as a consequence of its pursuit of nuclear weapons and ballistic missile systems.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


South Korea said Wednesday that it has recovered the wreckage of a North Korean satellite from the sea off the country’s coast. The satellite was launched on May 31 but ended up sinking into the sea following a botched-up takeoff.

South Korea said Wednesday that it has recovered the wreckage of a North Korean satellite from the sea off the country’s coast. The satellite was launched on May 31 but ended up sinking into the sea following a botched-up takeoff. Though it can be considered a major intelligence win for Seoul, experts have found the object had little military value. The South Korean military said last month that it had recovered parts of the rocket used in the failed launch. "After detailed analysis on major parts of North Korea's space launch vehicle and satellite which were salvaged, South Korean and US experts have assessed that they had no military utility as a reconnaissance satellite at all," the military said in a statement. Salvage operations ended With the recovery of the satellite wreckage, the South Korean military has ended its salvage operation which was started soon after the object plunged into the Yellow Sea off South Korea’s west coast. As per officials, it is the first time South Korea has acquired crucial parts of North Korea’s military satellite. Watch: North Korea's first spy missile gets final nod from Kim Jong-Un × According to Reuters, the South Korean Navy and deep-sea divers were involved in the efforts to retrieve the wreckage. The salvage operation could help Seoul gather more evidence of possible sanction violations by Pyongyang in the procurement of the equipment used in manufacturing the satellite. Also, the wreckage could provide details about North Korea’s secretive rocket programme. Spy satellite could target US, Japan and South Korea North Korea has expressed its intention to deploy spy satellites in order to monitor military installations in South Korea and Japan, where the United States maintains a significant presence. Despite being prohibited by United Nations Security Council resolutions from conducting ballistic missile tests, North Korea has consistently argued that it has the right to pursue a civilian space programme for launching satellites. Also read: North Korea vows to 'punish the US' on 73rd anniversary of Korean war However, the US and its allies have cautioned that the technology developed through North Korea's space programme could potentially be utilised to enhance its ballistic missile capabilities. Under the leadership of Kim Jong Un, North Korea has been intensifying its efforts to enhance the domestic technology and components used in its latest range of missiles. However, the country still relies on external sources for certain materials and components, which it is unable to obtain due to international sanctions imposed as a consequence of its pursuit of nuclear weapons and ballistic missile systems. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

'No military utility': S Korea retrieves N Korean satellite from sea in major intelligence win

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff announced on Friday that the nation has successfully retrieved a portion of a rocket used in North Korea's recent failed attempt to launch a military satellite. The recovered debris was obtained on Thursday evening, and efforts are ongoing to locate additional objects from what North Korea claimed was a space launch vehicle.

South Korea salvages North Korea spy satellite rocket debris; to examine parts

<p>South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;on Wednesday announced new&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;on two individuals and two entities&nbsp;over&nbsp;their alleged involvement in North&nbsp;Korea's&nbsp;weapons&nbsp;programmes, Seoul's foreign ministry said.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;target Choi Chon Gon, a former&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean&nbsp;national&nbsp;who acquired&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;citizenship, two companies Choi owns and a North&nbsp;Korean who supported Choi, the ministry said.</p>

<p>Choi is accused of helping North&nbsp;Korea's illegal financial activities in violation of United Nations Security Council&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;after acquiring&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;citizenship.</p>

<p>"It marks the first time our government has imposed unilateral&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;on an individual of&nbsp;Korean descent," the ministry said in a statement.</p>

<p>Reuters was unable to immediately reach Choi for comment.</p>

<p>Nuclear-armed North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has been testing various&nbsp;weapons&nbsp;including its biggest intercontinental ballistic missile, ramping up tension with Seoul and the&nbsp;South's main ally, the United States.</p>


South Korea on Wednesday announced new sanctions on two individuals and two entities over their alleged involvement in North Korea's weapons programmes, Seoul's foreign ministry said.

South Korea on Wednesday announced new sanctions on two individuals and two entities over their alleged involvement in North Korea's weapons programmes, Seoul's foreign ministry said. The sanctions target Choi Chon Gon, a former South Korean national who acquired Russian citizenship, two companies Choi owns and a North Korean who supported Choi, the ministry said. Choi is accused of helping North Korea's illegal financial activities in violation of United Nations Security Council sanctions after acquiring Russian citizenship. "It marks the first time our government has imposed unilateral sanctions on an individual of Korean descent," the ministry said in a statement. Reuters was unable to immediately reach Choi for comment. Nuclear-armed North Korea has been testing various weapons including its biggest intercontinental ballistic missile, ramping up tension with Seoul and the South's main ally, the United States.

South Korea unveils sanctions on Russian national over North's weapons programmes

In pics | 'Vow of revenge': North Koreans rally to mark 73rd anniversary of Korean War, denounce US

A recently declassified U.S. intelligence study claims that North Korea is expected to use its expanding nuclear arsenal to exert pressure on its neighbours and is also likely to take greater risks with its conventional military forces.

Report: North Korea growing nuclear arsenal to intimidate neighbours

<p>Mass rallies in North Korea's Pyongyang vowed a "war of revenge" against the United States, after the geo-economically isolated nation in the Korean peninsula marked the 73rd anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean war.</p>

<p>North and South Korea have been in a state of perpetual conflict after the Korean war, 73 years ago ended in a truce. The two countries had come into being in 1948 with a consensus to avoid a civil war. Both Korea and Vietnam had split in half, with pro-communists organising a government in the North and anti-communists organising a government in the South, and thus forming present-day North and South Korea.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;North Korea vows ‘overwhelming offensive’ against US military</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-vows-overwhelming-offensive-against-us-military-608411/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>According to state news agency KCNA, about 120,000 people from the working class and students took part in the rallies held across Pyongyang on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Photos published by North Korean state media showed people in a rally holding placards that read, 'The whole US mainland is within our shooting range' and 'The imperialist US is the destroyer of peace'.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The observance of the 73rd anniversary of the Korean war in Pyongyang comes after the North Korean foreign ministry accused the United States of "making desperate efforts to ignite a nuclear war", after the Biden administration reportedly sent US strategic assets to the Korean peninsula and the Indo-Pacific.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/construction-at-north-koreas-satellite-launch-pad-hits-new-urgency-report-596267">Construction at North Korea’s satellite launch pad hits ‘new urgency’: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The war anniversary observance also comes amid reports that North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un could soon repeat an attempt to launch its first military satellite, deemed a spy satellite by the West. The goal of the said satellite is reported to be monitoring of the US military activities.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Kim Jong Un's bid for spy satellite</strong></h2>

<p>Pyongyang's first attempt to launch the said satellite ended in a failure last month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>North Korea now had "the strongest absolute weapon to punish the US imperialists" and the "avengers on this land are burning with the indomitable will to revenge the enemy," KCNA said.</p>

<p>North Korea,a nuclear-armed nation has been testing various weapons including its biggest intercontinental ballistic missile, ramping up tension with the South and the South's main ally, the United States.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>


Mass rallies in North Korea's Pyongyang vowed a "war of revenge" against the United States, after the geo-economically isolated nation in the Korean peninsula marked the 73rd anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean war.

Mass rallies in North Korea's Pyongyang vowed a "war of revenge" against the United States, after the geo-economically isolated nation in the Korean peninsula marked the 73rd anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean war. North and South Korea have been in a state of perpetual conflict after the Korean war, 73 years ago ended in a truce. The two countries had come into being in 1948 with a consensus to avoid a civil war. Both Korea and Vietnam had split in half, with pro-communists organising a government in the North and anti-communists organising a government in the South, and thus forming present-day North and South Korea. Also watch | North Korea vows ‘overwhelming offensive’ against US military × According to state news agency KCNA, about 120,000 people from the working class and students took part in the rallies held across Pyongyang on Sunday. Photos published by North Korean state media showed people in a rally holding placards that read, 'The whole US mainland is within our shooting range' and 'The imperialist US is the destroyer of peace'. What does it mean? The observance of the 73rd anniversary of the Korean war in Pyongyang comes after the North Korean foreign ministry accused the United States of "making desperate efforts to ignite a nuclear war", after the Biden administration reportedly sent US strategic assets to the Korean peninsula and the Indo-Pacific. Also read | Construction at North Korea’s satellite launch pad hits ‘new urgency’: Report The war anniversary observance also comes amid reports that North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un could soon repeat an attempt to launch its first military satellite, deemed a spy satellite by the West. The goal of the said satellite is reported to be monitoring of the US military activities. Kim Jong Un's bid for spy satellite Pyongyang's first attempt to launch the said satellite ended in a failure last month. North Korea now had "the strongest absolute weapon to punish the US imperialists" and the "avengers on this land are burning with the indomitable will to revenge the enemy," KCNA said. North Korea,a nuclear-armed nation has been testing various weapons including its biggest intercontinental ballistic missile, ramping up tension with the South and the South's main ally, the United States. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

North Korea vows to 'punish the US' on 73rd anniversary of Korean war

<p>South Korea's unification ministry announced a historic step towards transparency by revealing plans to release a comprehensive report on forced labour practices in North Korea.</p>

<p>This groundbreaking endeavour aims to raise global awareness about the human rights violations prevailing within the North Korean&nbsp;regime, as reported by the Korea Times.</p>

<p>Drawing insights from interviews conducted with North Korean defectors over the past five years, the ministry intends to conduct an in-depth inquiry into the prevalent forced labour practices within the country.</p>

<p>By shedding light on these issues, South Korea hopes to bring attention to the plight of the North Korean people.</p>

<h2><strong>Analysing pre and post-Kim Jong-un era </strong></h2>

<p>The ministry's report will closely examine changes in forced labour practices both before and after the rise of the Kim Jong-un regime in 2011. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of forced labour conditions within North Korea.</p>

<p>Furthermore, the study will scrutinise the relevant laws and systems surrounding forced labour to assess their impact on the lives of North Korean citizens. By delving into the historical context, South Korea seeks to present a nuanced perspective on the labour landscape under different leadership periods.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-salvages-north-korea-spy-satellite-rocket-to-examine-debris-605019">South Korea salvages North Korea spy satellite rocket debris; to examine parts</a></p>

<h2><strong>Comprehensive approach to human rights reporting </strong></h2>

<p>In addition to the report on forced labour, the South Korean&nbsp;government has outlined plans to release public reports on various aspects of North Korea's human rights record.</p>

<p>These reports will address crucial topics, such as the rights of North Korean women and the general population's right to work.</p>

<p>Previously, the North Korean Human Rights Records Center, affiliated with the ministry, compiled reports for internal reference. However, recognising the significance of increasing awareness, the government aims to disclose the findings while ensuring the protection of personal information and privacy.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;The US deploys nuclear submarine to South Korea</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-us-deploys-nuclear-submarine-to-south-korea-605298/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>North Korea's policy direction </strong></h2>

<p>The recent reinstatement of Kim Yong-chol, a former top North Korean party official in charge of affairs with South Korea, has sparked curiosity about Pyongyang's intentions.</p>

<p>The move is seen as a potential signal of the North's efforts to strengthen its engagement with the South. With Kim's expertise in inter-Korean dialogue and his past role in denuclearisation talks, it is presumed that North Korea seeks to enhance its response mechanisms and cooperation in the inter-Korean realm.</p>

<p>This development aligns with South Korea's goal of fostering constructive relations while addressing human rights concerns.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


South Korea's unification ministry announced a historic step towards transparency by revealing plans to release a comprehensive report on forced labour practices in North Korea.

South Korea's unification ministry announced a historic step towards transparency by revealing plans to release a comprehensive report on forced labour practices in North Korea. This groundbreaking endeavour aims to raise global awareness about the human rights violations prevailing within the North Korean regime, as reported by the Korea Times. Drawing insights from interviews conducted with North Korean defectors over the past five years, the ministry intends to conduct an in-depth inquiry into the prevalent forced labour practices within the country. By shedding light on these issues, South Korea hopes to bring attention to the plight of the North Korean people. Analysing pre and post-Kim Jong-un era The ministry's report will closely examine changes in forced labour practices both before and after the rise of the Kim Jong-un regime in 2011. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of forced labour conditions within North Korea. Furthermore, the study will scrutinise the relevant laws and systems surrounding forced labour to assess their impact on the lives of North Korean citizens. By delving into the historical context, South Korea seeks to present a nuanced perspective on the labour landscape under different leadership periods. Also read | South Korea salvages North Korea spy satellite rocket debris; to examine parts Comprehensive approach to human rights reporting In addition to the report on forced labour, the South Korean government has outlined plans to release public reports on various aspects of North Korea's human rights record. These reports will address crucial topics, such as the rights of North Korean women and the general population's right to work. Previously, the North Korean Human Rights Records Center, affiliated with the ministry, compiled reports for internal reference. However, recognising the significance of increasing awareness, the government aims to disclose the findings while ensuring the protection of personal information and privacy. Also watch | The US deploys nuclear submarine to South Korea North Korea's policy direction The recent reinstatement of Kim Yong-chol, a former top North Korean party official in charge of affairs with South Korea, has sparked curiosity about Pyongyang's intentions. The move is seen as a potential signal of the North's efforts to strengthen its engagement with the South. With Kim's expertise in inter-Korean dialogue and his past role in denuclearisation talks, it is presumed that North Korea seeks to enhance its response mechanisms and cooperation in the inter-Korean realm. This development aligns with South Korea's goal of fostering constructive relations while addressing human rights concerns. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

S Korea's landmark report to expose N Korea's hidden forced labour practices

Although North and South Korea are poles apart, the two neighbours have continued to quarrel on the Korean Peninsula. Most recently, North Korea has fired missiles while South Korea is performing a military parade with the Americans. Kim Jong-un of North Korea has agitated his neighbour once more. Two short-range missiles have reportedly been launched by Pyongyang, according to South Korea's military, and Tokyo claims that these missiles have landed in its exclusive economic zone.

Pyongyang and Seoul flex their military might in Korean peninsula

North Korea and South Korea well are neighbors but they are poles apart. In the Korean Peninsula both the neighbors continue to rank in the latest the North Koreans have fired missiles while the South is staging a military drill with the Americans right in front of North Korea.

Kim Jong-Un rattles neighbours once again

The United States deployed a nuclear-powered submarine capable of carrying about 150 tomahawk missiles to South Korea a day after North Korea resumed missile tests in protests of the US-South Korean live fire drills. The USS Michigan's arrival in South Korea is the first of its kind in six years. It is part of a recent bilateral agreement on enhancing regular visibility of the US strategic assets to the Korean Peninsula which is in response to North Korea's advancing nuclear program.

The US deploys nuclear submarine to South Korea

<p>South Korean military, on Thursday (June 15) said that North Korea had fired&nbsp;two short-range ballistic&nbsp;missiles off its east coast, as per Reuters. This comes after North Korea condemned live fire drills South Korea is carrying out with the United States. Meanwhile, the Japanese defence ministry also confirmed the launch&nbsp;and said North Korea might have fired what could have been ballistic missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>North Korea fires another ballistic missile</strong></p>

<p>Notably, since the beginning of this year, North Korea has fired a record number of missiles during weapons tests, including test-firing its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missiles, and last month attempting to put a military spy satellite into orbit.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff&nbsp;released a statement that said it had detected the launch of "two short-range ballistic missiles from the Sunan area into the East Sea," between 7:25 pm&nbsp;and 7:37 pm&nbsp;(local time), referring to the Sea of Japan.</p>

<p>It added, "We have stepped up monitoring in case of further provocations and are maintaining readiness in close coordination with the United States."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an earlier statement,&nbsp;the South Korean military’s Joint Chiefs of Staff, said "North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile into the East Sea."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Japan confirms launch</strong><br />
<br />
A Tokyo defence ministry official told reporters&nbsp;that two missiles from North Korea fell inside&nbsp;the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).&nbsp;"Two ballistic missiles fell inside the EEZ," said the official from Tokyo, as per AFP.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
According to Japanese officials, one of the missiles&nbsp;landed in the Sea of Japan about 110 kilometres&nbsp;northwest of Hegura island which is a part of the&nbsp;Ishikawa prefecture while the other landed some 250 kilometres away.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The Japanese military had earlier said that&nbsp;Pyongyang had “launched a possible ballistic missile” and the country’s coastguard has since asked vessels to be vigilant in the Sea of Japan and not approach any fallen objects at sea.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>South Korea, US live fire drills</strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, in South Korea, thousands of troops from both Seoul and Washington took part in what it described as the largest joint live-fire exercises with the US on Thursday amid a rise in tensions in the region and a show of power following threats from North Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The live fire drills are also being overseen by South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol which would&nbsp;mark the 70th anniversary of the alliance between the countries as well as the 75th anniversary of the founding of the South Korean military, said his office, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some 2,500 troops from both the US and South Korea have been said to be a part of the drills hosted in the northeast of Seoul with a range of weapons including South Korean F-35 fighters and K9 self-propelled howitzers and the US’ F-16 jets and Gray Eagle drones.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The exercises were aimed at checking the ability to conduct combined and joint operations to realise 'peace through strength' through practical manoeuvring and live-fire training under the scenario of a North Korean provocation,” said Yoon’s office.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>North Korea's warning about US-South Korea&nbsp;drill</strong>s</p>

<p>The reported ballistic missiles launched by Pyongyang&nbsp;came hours after it condemned South Korea’s live-fire drills with the US, reported the state media KCNA, citing a spokesperson from North Korea’s Ministry of National Defence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the spokesperson said that North Korean forces will sternly respond to “any kind of protests or provocations by enemies,” as quoted by Reuters. &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


South Korean military, on Thursday (June 15) said that North Korea had fired two short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast, as per Reuters. This comes after North Korea condemned live fire drills South Korea is carrying out with the United States.

South Korean military, on Thursday (June 15) said that North Korea had fired two short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast, as per Reuters. This comes after North Korea condemned live fire drills South Korea is carrying out with the United States. Meanwhile, the Japanese defence ministry also confirmed the launch and said North Korea might have fired what could have been ballistic missiles. North Korea fires another ballistic missile Notably, since the beginning of this year, North Korea has fired a record number of missiles during weapons tests, including test-firing its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missiles, and last month attempting to put a military spy satellite into orbit. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff released a statement that said it had detected the launch of "two short-range ballistic missiles from the Sunan area into the East Sea," between 7:25 pm and 7:37 pm (local time), referring to the Sea of Japan. It added, "We have stepped up monitoring in case of further provocations and are maintaining readiness in close coordination with the United States." In an earlier statement, the South Korean military’s Joint Chiefs of Staff, said "North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile into the East Sea." Japan confirms launch A Tokyo defence ministry official told reporters that two missiles from North Korea fell inside the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). "Two ballistic missiles fell inside the EEZ," said the official from Tokyo, as per AFP. According to Japanese officials, one of the missiles landed in the Sea of Japan about 110 kilometres northwest of Hegura island which is a part of the Ishikawa prefecture while the other landed some 250 kilometres away. The Japanese military had earlier said that Pyongyang had “launched a possible ballistic missile” and the country’s coastguard has since asked vessels to be vigilant in the Sea of Japan and not approach any fallen objects at sea. South Korea, US live fire drills Meanwhile, in South Korea, thousands of troops from both Seoul and Washington took part in what it described as the largest joint live-fire exercises with the US on Thursday amid a rise in tensions in the region and a show of power following threats from North Korea. The live fire drills are also being overseen by South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol which would mark the 70th anniversary of the alliance between the countries as well as the 75th anniversary of the founding of the South Korean military, said his office, in a statement. Some 2,500 troops from both the US and South Korea have been said to be a part of the drills hosted in the northeast of Seoul with a range of weapons including South Korean F-35 fighters and K9 self-propelled howitzers and the US’ F-16 jets and Gray Eagle drones. “The exercises were aimed at checking the ability to conduct combined and joint operations to realise 'peace through strength' through practical manoeuvring and live-fire training under the scenario of a North Korean provocation,” said Yoon’s office. North Korea's warning about US-South Korea drills The reported ballistic missiles launched by Pyongyang came hours after it condemned South Korea’s live-fire drills with the US, reported the state media KCNA, citing a spokesperson from North Korea’s Ministry of National Defence. In a statement, the spokesperson said that North Korean forces will sternly respond to “any kind of protests or provocations by enemies,” as quoted by Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

North Korea launched two missiles, says Japan, South Korea amid Seoul's live-fire drills with Washington

<p>Seoul's spy agency on Wednesday revealed that North Korea, in an attempt to gather South Koreans' personal data, replicated the country's largest internet portal Naver in real-time. &nbsp;</p>

<p>This was part of a sophisticated phishing attack designed by Pyongyang to steal user information through several fake versions of the Naver website.</p>

<p>The agency further urged the residents to be cautious about wrong web addresses.</p>

<p>The multifarious services by Naver include Google-like maps, financial services similar to Apple Pay, and popular blogs and chat forums, which are used by South Koreans extensively on a&nbsp;day-to-day basis.</p>

<p>South Korea's National Intelligence Service said that Pyongyang had created the phishing site, naverportal.com, that replicated Naver's main page in order to hack South Koreans' valuable personal information such as IDs and passwords.</p>

<p>In a press release, the NIS asked South Koreans to be vigilant and check if the domain address of Naver is legitimate.</p>

<p>"As North Korea's hacking attack methods against our people are becoming more sophisticated, we ask people to be extra vigilant," NIS said in a statement, adding measures have been taken to block the phishing site from South Korean users.</p>

<p>"Please cease accessing it immediately if you spot a page that's not a standard Naver access domain URL," it said.</p>

<p>"If the domain address is not the legitimate Naver access domain ― www.naver.com ― such as www.naverportal.com, please immediately stop accessing it," the agency said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/has-kim-jong-un-issued-secret-order-to-ban-suicide-in-north-korea-601924">Has Kim Jong-un issued secret order to ban suicide in North Korea?</a></p>

<p>The agency further revealed that previously, North Korea had attempted to steal South Korean IDs and passwords by duplicating Naver's log-in page, but creating a fake portal was a new approach.</p>

<p>"The North has upgraded its attack scheme in order to better extort private information," it said.</p>

<p>"We are tracking the activities of the hacking group in cooperation with foreign agencies as the server is located overseas."</p>

<p>Naver also released a statement asking users to be extra cautious while operating the portal.</p>

<p>"We urge users to check if the address is the right one and pay extra attention when accessing Naver," the company said.</p>

<h2><strong>Fake Naver site appeared 'clumsy', reveal experts</strong></h2>

<p>According to the experts, the fake Naver site did appear 'clumsy' but was 'good enough' to fool the ones who were not vigilant.</p>

<p>"By the nature of this kind of attack, South Koreans are at a disadvantage because we are on the receiving end," AFP quoted former national security official, Choi Gil-il as saying.</p>

<p>"We have to be constantly on guard to fend off cyber phishing."</p>

<p>As per the Yonhap news agency reports, North Korea's state-backed hacker group Kimsuky hacked into the intranet of the Seoul National University Hospital in the month of May and stole the personal data of about 800,000 patients and workers.</p>

<p>According to Seoul, Tokyo and Washington, last year, Pyongyang stole as much as $1.7 billion in cryptocurrency and backed its weapons programmes by collecting data through "malicious cyber activities".</p>

<p>"North Korea is carrying out omnidirectional cyberattacks, such as theft of cryptocurrency and hacking of sensitive information, all over the world," Seoul's foreign ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>That activity "not only causes property damage to innocent individuals and companies but also poses a serious threat to the global IT ecosystem as a whole", it said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Seoul's spy agency on Wednesday revealed that North Korea, in an attempt to gather South Koreans' personal data, replicated the country's largest internet portal Naver in real-time.

Seoul's spy agency on Wednesday revealed that North Korea, in an attempt to gather South Koreans' personal data, replicated the country's largest internet portal Naver in real-time. This was part of a sophisticated phishing attack designed by Pyongyang to steal user information through several fake versions of the Naver website. The agency further urged the residents to be cautious about wrong web addresses. The multifarious services by Naver include Google-like maps, financial services similar to Apple Pay, and popular blogs and chat forums, which are used by South Koreans extensively on a day-to-day basis. South Korea's National Intelligence Service said that Pyongyang had created the phishing site, naverportal.com, that replicated Naver's main page in order to hack South Koreans' valuable personal information such as IDs and passwords. In a press release, the NIS asked South Koreans to be vigilant and check if the domain address of Naver is legitimate. "As North Korea's hacking attack methods against our people are becoming more sophisticated, we ask people to be extra vigilant," NIS said in a statement, adding measures have been taken to block the phishing site from South Korean users. "Please cease accessing it immediately if you spot a page that's not a standard Naver access domain URL," it said. "If the domain address is not the legitimate Naver access domain ― www.naver.com ― such as www.naverportal.com, please immediately stop accessing it," the agency said. Also read: Has Kim Jong-un issued secret order to ban suicide in North Korea? The agency further revealed that previously, North Korea had attempted to steal South Korean IDs and passwords by duplicating Naver's log-in page, but creating a fake portal was a new approach. "The North has upgraded its attack scheme in order to better extort private information," it said. "We are tracking the activities of the hacking group in cooperation with foreign agencies as the server is located overseas." Naver also released a statement asking users to be extra cautious while operating the portal. "We urge users to check if the address is the right one and pay extra attention when accessing Naver," the company said. Fake Naver site appeared 'clumsy', reveal experts According to the experts, the fake Naver site did appear 'clumsy' but was 'good enough' to fool the ones who were not vigilant. "By the nature of this kind of attack, South Koreans are at a disadvantage because we are on the receiving end," AFP quoted former national security official, Choi Gil-il as saying. "We have to be constantly on guard to fend off cyber phishing." As per the Yonhap news agency reports, North Korea's state-backed hacker group Kimsuky hacked into the intranet of the Seoul National University Hospital in the month of May and stole the personal data of about 800,000 patients and workers. According to Seoul, Tokyo and Washington, last year, Pyongyang stole as much as $1.7 billion in cryptocurrency and backed its weapons programmes by collecting data through "malicious cyber activities". "North Korea is carrying out omnidirectional cyberattacks, such as theft of cryptocurrency and hacking of sensitive information, all over the world," Seoul's foreign ministry said in a statement. That activity "not only causes property damage to innocent individuals and companies but also poses a serious threat to the global IT ecosystem as a whole", it said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

North Korea creates fake phishing site to steal South Koreans' personal data, says spy agency

<p>North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin appear closer than ever. The former has vowed to "hold hands" with his Russian counterpart and work towards their shared goal of building a powerful country, state media agency Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Conveying his full support and solidarity with Moscow, Kim sent&nbsp;the message to Putin on Russia's National Day.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2">"Justice is sure to win and the Russian people will continue to add glory to the history of victory," KCNA quoted Kim as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">The dictator called for "closer strategic cooperation" with Moscow, "holding hands firmly with the Russian president, in conformity with the common desire of the peoples of the two countries to fulfil the grand goal of building a powerful country."</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">Notably, this is not the first instance when Kim has attempted to serenade Putin with his sweet words. In May, Kim sent a letter to Putin, hailing Russia's "holy fight" against what he called "imperialists".&nbsp;</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">“We send warm wishes to you, the Russian army and the people of&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;for their holy fight to preserve world peace,” read the letter.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kim-putin-exchange-letters-on-north-koreas-liberation-day-507073"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Kim, Putin exchange letters on North Korea's Liberation day</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kim-putin-exchange-letters-on-north-koreas-liberation-day-507073/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2 data-testid="paragraph-3"><strong>The unlikely relationship of Kim, Putin</strong></h2>

<p>The unlikely equation between Kim and Putin developed after the latter invaded Ukraine last year.&nbsp;Kremlin has also attempted to bolster the relationship, as is evident from its actions.</p>

<p>Earlier this month,&nbsp;Russia and China ignored a US call to condemn North Korea in United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for its attempt to launch a satellite. Both countries instead blamed Washington for raising tensions in the Korean Peninsula.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unsc-china-russia-join-forces-to-ignore-us-call-to-condemn-north-korea-599864"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;UNSC: China, Russia join forces to ignore US call to condemn North Korea</strong></a></p>

<p>Earlier this year, the White House claimed to have found evidence that Russia is purchasing weapons from North Korea for its Ukrainian war, and in return providing food and water to the crisis-hit country.</p>

<p>White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said that Russia, which has been desperate for additional munitions and weapons in wake of western sanctions, is turning to “rogue” nations to fund its war.</p>

<p>“As part of this proposed deal, Russia would receive over two dozen kinds of weapons and munitions from Pyongyang,” said Kirby.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We also understand that Russia is seeking to send a delegation to North Korea and that Russia is offering North Korea food in exchange for munitions,” he added.</p>

<p>In recent months, North Korea has accelerated its missile programme, much to the chagrin of the Western world. However, Putin and Moscow have remained in its corner, throughout the proceedings.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3"><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin appear closer than ever. The former has vowed to "hold hands" with his Russian counterpart and work towards their shared goal of building a powerful country, state media agency Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin appear closer than ever. The former has vowed to "hold hands" with his Russian counterpart and work towards their shared goal of building a powerful country, state media agency Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Conveying his full support and solidarity with Moscow, Kim sent the message to Putin on Russia's National Day. "Justice is sure to win and the Russian people will continue to add glory to the history of victory," KCNA quoted Kim as saying. The dictator called for "closer strategic cooperation" with Moscow, "holding hands firmly with the Russian president, in conformity with the common desire of the peoples of the two countries to fulfil the grand goal of building a powerful country." Notably, this is not the first instance when Kim has attempted to serenade Putin with his sweet words. In May, Kim sent a letter to Putin, hailing Russia's "holy fight" against what he called "imperialists". “We send warm wishes to you, the Russian army and the people of Russia for their holy fight to preserve world peace,” read the letter. Watch | Kim, Putin exchange letters on North Korea's Liberation day × The unlikely relationship of Kim, Putin The unlikely equation between Kim and Putin developed after the latter invaded Ukraine last year. Kremlin has also attempted to bolster the relationship, as is evident from its actions. Earlier this month, Russia and China ignored a US call to condemn North Korea in United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for its attempt to launch a satellite. Both countries instead blamed Washington for raising tensions in the Korean Peninsula. Also read | UNSC: China, Russia join forces to ignore US call to condemn North Korea Earlier this year, the White House claimed to have found evidence that Russia is purchasing weapons from North Korea for its Ukrainian war, and in return providing food and water to the crisis-hit country. White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said that Russia, which has been desperate for additional munitions and weapons in wake of western sanctions, is turning to “rogue” nations to fund its war. “As part of this proposed deal, Russia would receive over two dozen kinds of weapons and munitions from Pyongyang,” said Kirby. “We also understand that Russia is seeking to send a delegation to North Korea and that Russia is offering North Korea food in exchange for munitions,” he added. In recent months, North Korea has accelerated its missile programme, much to the chagrin of the Western world. However, Putin and Moscow have remained in its corner, throughout the proceedings. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kim serenades Putin, vows to 'hold hands' for strategic cooperation

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 | Kim Jong Un vows to hold hands with Vladhimir Putin

<p>South Korea said on Monday (June 12) that Chinese warships are carrying out a salvage operation in waters where a North Korean space rocket crashed. Last month, North Korea unsuccessfully attempted to launch a military satellite. The satellite crashed into the water near the west coast island of Eocheongdo. The South Korean military is carrying out its own search for the wreckage of the North Korean satellite.</p>

<p>According to the South Korean military, the rocket crashed into the sea where exclusive economic zones of China and South Korea meet. The South has already pulled some debris from the water. It includes a large cylindrical object.</p>

<p>"Regarding the Chinese vessels, a salvage operation is currently being carried out at a point 200 km (124 miles) west of Eocheongdo, and the waters are open sea," Lee Sung-jun, spokesperson for South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, said at a regular briefing on Monday.</p>

<p>"We understand that some Chinese warships are active in that open sea," Lee said, adding that there were "no disturbances" around the Chinese activity that required any response from the South Korean side.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Why has North Korea's Kim vowed to 'hold hands' with Putin?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-has-north-koreas-kim-vowed-to-hold-hands-with-putin-603512/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Lee Sung-jun's comments came after NK News reported on Friday that Chinese vessels had stepped up patrols in the Yellow Sea where the debris fell. NK News is a Seoul-based website&nbsp;monitoring North Korea.</p>

<h2><strong>The frenzy after the launch</strong></h2>

<p>North Korea launched the satellite on May 31. It was to be its first military spy satellite. The launch caused a flurry of activity in the region. Air raid sirens blared in the South Korean capital Seoul. The citizens were sent a message by the authorities and asked to be ready for evacuation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Japan activated its missile defence system and its official government handles even tweeted the possibility of a ballistic missile being fired. Japan went to the extent of saying that the missile will land in the sea near Okinawa.</p>

<p>South Korean authorities said after a while that the warning for evacuation was incorrectly issued. Japan withdrew its alerts as well.</p>

<p>Although the May 31 launch was a failure, North Korea vowed that it would attempt to launch a satellite again soon.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/has-kim-jong-un-issued-secret-order-to-ban-suicide-in-north-korea-601924">Has Kim Jong-un issued secret order to ban suicide in North Korea?</a></strong></p>

<p>"It is certain that (North Korea's) military reconnaissance satellite will be correctly put into space orbit in the near future and start its mission," said Kim Yo-jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Her English language statement was North Korea's state-owned agency KCNA.</p>

<p>North Korea, in a rare and swift admission of setback, said just hours after the launch attempt that Chollima-1 rocket, carrying a military reconnaissance satellite known as "Malligyong-1", crashed into the sea after the second stage engine failed.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</em></p>

<p><strong><em>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</em></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


South Korea said on Monday (June 12) that Chinese warships are carrying out a salvage operation in waters where a North Korean space rocket crashed. Last month, North Korea unsuccessfully attempted to launch a military satellite.

South Korea said on Monday (June 12) that Chinese warships are carrying out a salvage operation in waters where a North Korean space rocket crashed. Last month, North Korea unsuccessfully attempted to launch a military satellite. The satellite crashed into the water near the west coast island of Eocheongdo. The South Korean military is carrying out its own search for the wreckage of the North Korean satellite. According to the South Korean military, the rocket crashed into the sea where exclusive economic zones of China and South Korea meet. The South has already pulled some debris from the water. It includes a large cylindrical object. "Regarding the Chinese vessels, a salvage operation is currently being carried out at a point 200 km (124 miles) west of Eocheongdo, and the waters are open sea," Lee Sung-jun, spokesperson for South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, said at a regular briefing on Monday. "We understand that some Chinese warships are active in that open sea," Lee said, adding that there were "no disturbances" around the Chinese activity that required any response from the South Korean side. Watch | Why has North Korea's Kim vowed to 'hold hands' with Putin? × Lee Sung-jun's comments came after NK News reported on Friday that Chinese vessels had stepped up patrols in the Yellow Sea where the debris fell. NK News is a Seoul-based website monitoring North Korea. The frenzy after the launch North Korea launched the satellite on May 31. It was to be its first military spy satellite. The launch caused a flurry of activity in the region. Air raid sirens blared in the South Korean capital Seoul. The citizens were sent a message by the authorities and asked to be ready for evacuation. Japan activated its missile defence system and its official government handles even tweeted the possibility of a ballistic missile being fired. Japan went to the extent of saying that the missile will land in the sea near Okinawa. South Korean authorities said after a while that the warning for evacuation was incorrectly issued. Japan withdrew its alerts as well. Although the May 31 launch was a failure, North Korea vowed that it would attempt to launch a satellite again soon. Also Read | Has Kim Jong-un issued secret order to ban suicide in North Korea? "It is certain that (North Korea's) military reconnaissance satellite will be correctly put into space orbit in the near future and start its mission," said Kim Yo-jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Her English language statement was North Korea's state-owned agency KCNA. North Korea, in a rare and swift admission of setback, said just hours after the launch attempt that Chollima-1 rocket, carrying a military reconnaissance satellite known as "Malligyong-1", crashed into the sea after the second stage engine failed. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China searching waters where North Korean satellite crashed: South Korea

Russia found a new ally in North Korea. While the Russia-Ukraine war continues to intensify, Putin has found a strategic partner in Kim Jong Un. North Korean leader has vowed to 'hold hands' with Vladimir Putin. Kim wants to strengthen strategic cooperation with Russia. While sharing a common goal of building a powerful country.

Why has North Korea's Kim vowed to 'hold hands' with Putin?

<p>North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has reportedly passed&nbsp;a secret order to ban suicide in the country, labelling it as a "treason against socialism". A report by Radio Free Asia claimed that Kim has ordered local governments to take preventative measures.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A government official told the outlet that the decision was made after data showed an increase in people taking their lives this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As mentioned in the report, the South Korean National Intelligence Service claimed that suicides were up by about 40% compared to last year at the end of May.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, there's no confirmation of the data from North Korean authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted, a spokesperson for South Korea's National Intelligence Service said: "There are a lot of ­internal unrest factors in North Korea due to ­people’s hardships."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The spy agency apparently also mentioned that violent crimes are also on the rise in North Korea as people struggle to make ends meet.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-jong-un-may-have-insomnia-alcohol-dependency-south-koreas-spy-agency-599269">North Korean leader Kim Jong-un may have 'insomnia, alcohol dependency': South Korea's spy agency</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>North Korea and its&nbsp;social system</strong></h2>

<p>An official from the northeastern province of North Hamgyong told RFA's Korean Service that Kim's secret order, the content of which was confidential, was delivered in emergency meetings in each province of the party committee leaders at the provincial, city and county levels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official spoke to the outlet on condition of anonymity because of security reasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted, he said, "Our meeting was held at the provincial party committee's building located in Pohang district, in the city of Chongjin."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The large number of suicide cases in the province was revealed and some officials … could not hide their anxious expressions," the official added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-offended-north-korean-leaders-sister-slams-un-meeting-on-spy-satellite-launch-600283">Very offended': North Korean leader's sister slams UN meeting on spy satellite launch</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The official mentioned that there were 35 suicide cases this year in Chongjin and nearby Kyongsong county alone, the staggering data was delivered at the North Hamgyong meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official further added that most of the cases involved whole families ending their lives together. He said, "[The attendees] were shocked by the disclosure of suicide notes that criticised the country and the social system." &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Shangrila-La Dialogue: South Korean defence minister calls out ignorance on North Korea&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/shangrila-la-dialogue-south-korean-defence-minister-calls-out-ignorance-on-north-korea-600163/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>RFA reported that the attendees at the meeting in Ryanggang province were told that suicide has had a greater social impact than starvation, an official said while speaking on condition of anonymity.</p>

<p>He said, "Despite the suicide prevention policy ratified by the General Secretary, the officials were not able to come up with an appropriate solution. Most of the suicides were caused by severe poverty and starvation, so no one can come up with a countermeasure right now."&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has reportedly passed a secret order to ban suicide in the country, labelling it as a "treason against socialism". A report by Radio Free Asia claimed that Kim has ordered local governments to take preventative measures.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has reportedly passed a secret order to ban suicide in the country, labelling it as a "treason against socialism". A report by Radio Free Asia claimed that Kim has ordered local governments to take preventative measures. A government official told the outlet that the decision was made after data showed an increase in people taking their lives this year. As mentioned in the report, the South Korean National Intelligence Service claimed that suicides were up by about 40% compared to last year at the end of May. However, there's no confirmation of the data from North Korean authorities. As quoted, a spokesperson for South Korea's National Intelligence Service said: "There are a lot of internal unrest factors in North Korea due to people’s hardships." The spy agency apparently also mentioned that violent crimes are also on the rise in North Korea as people struggle to make ends meet. Also read: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un may have 'insomnia, alcohol dependency': South Korea's spy agency North Korea and its social system An official from the northeastern province of North Hamgyong told RFA's Korean Service that Kim's secret order, the content of which was confidential, was delivered in emergency meetings in each province of the party committee leaders at the provincial, city and county levels. The official spoke to the outlet on condition of anonymity because of security reasons. As quoted, he said, "Our meeting was held at the provincial party committee's building located in Pohang district, in the city of Chongjin." "The large number of suicide cases in the province was revealed and some officials … could not hide their anxious expressions," the official added. Also read: 'Very offended': North Korean leader's sister slams UN meeting on spy satellite launch The official mentioned that there were 35 suicide cases this year in Chongjin and nearby Kyongsong county alone, the staggering data was delivered at the North Hamgyong meeting. The official further added that most of the cases involved whole families ending their lives together. He said, "[The attendees] were shocked by the disclosure of suicide notes that criticised the country and the social system." Watch: Shangrila-La Dialogue: South Korean defence minister calls out ignorance on North Korea × RFA reported that the attendees at the meeting in Ryanggang province were told that suicide has had a greater social impact than starvation, an official said while speaking on condition of anonymity. He said, "Despite the suicide prevention policy ratified by the General Secretary, the officials were not able to come up with an appropriate solution. Most of the suicides were caused by severe poverty and starvation, so no one can come up with a countermeasure right now." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Has Kim Jong-un issued secret order to ban suicide in North Korea?

north-korea

North Korea, News on North Korea, stories on North Korea, articles on North Korea, North Korea stories at Wion, North Korea news, North Korea latest news

north korea