North Korea has testified a new weapon system under the supervision of their leader Kim Jong-Un and all of this is according to reports that have been published in the state-controlled media the KCNA.

North Korea tests new weapon system, supremo Kim Jong-Un supervised it: KCNA

As per a report by Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) new agency, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has supervised the test-firing of a new kind of tactical guided weapon that will enhance the country’s “efficiency in the operation of tactical nukes”.

The test came after months of a record-breaking flurry of sanctions-breaking launches, signalling the end of a self-imposed moratorium on long-range and nuclear tests.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-says-north-korea-could-hold-nuclear-test-on-coming-anniversary-469120">US envoy says North Korea could hold nuclear test on coming anniversary</a>

As per US officials and the country’s neighbour South Korea, this signals that North Korea may soon resume nuclear testing. &nbsp;

Kim issued significant directions on further "building up the defence capabilities and nuclear combat forces of the country," after directing the test, according to the KCNA.

Watch |&nbsp;North Korea celebrates founder's birthday with dance, music but no military parade

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-celebrates-founder-with-dance-music-but-no-military-parade-471526/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Sunday, South Korea's military reported that it had detected two projectiles launched from the North's east coast towards the sea late on Saturday. The projectiles flew about &nbsp;110 kilometres (68 miles) with an apogee of 25 kilometres and a maximum speed of under Mach 4.

"The new-type tactical guided weapon system ... is of great significance in drastically improving the firepower of the frontline long-range artillery units and enhancing the efficiency in the operation of tactical nukes," said KCNA in its report.

However, no details are available about the location of the test or the missiles involved.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-marks-10-years-since-kim-jong-uns-election-as-top-party-leader-470244">North Korea marks 10 years since Kim Jong Un's election as top party leader</a>

In a report by Reuters a senior fellow at the US-based Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Ankit Panda speculates that it was most likely a short-range ballistic missile and potentially the nation’s first tactical nuclear weapon delivery system.

Following Biden's election, North Korea conducted a series of 13 missile tests, culminating last month with the launch of a ballistic missile capable of delivering a nuclear bomb to the United States' eastern flank.

The tests come shortly after the 110th anniversary of the nation’s founder Kim Il Sung, who is also the grandfather of the current leader Kim Jong Un.

(With inputs from agencies)

As per a report by Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) new agency, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has supervised the test-firing of a new kind of tactical guided weapon that will enhance the country’s “efficiency in the operation of tactical nukes”.

As per a report by Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) new agency, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has supervised the test-firing of a new kind of tactical guided weapon that will enhance the country’s “efficiency in the operation of tactical nukes”. The test came after months of a record-breaking flurry of sanctions-breaking launches, signalling the end of a self-imposed moratorium on long-range and nuclear tests. Also read | US envoy says North Korea could hold nuclear test on coming anniversary As per US officials and the country’s neighbour South Korea, this signals that North Korea may soon resume nuclear testing. Kim issued significant directions on further "building up the defence capabilities and nuclear combat forces of the country," after directing the test, according to the KCNA. Watch | North Korea celebrates founder's birthday with dance, music but no military parade On Sunday, South Korea's military reported that it had detected two projectiles launched from the North's east coast towards the sea late on Saturday. The projectiles flew about 110 kilometres (68 miles) with an apogee of 25 kilometres and a maximum speed of under Mach 4. "The new-type tactical guided weapon system ... is of great significance in drastically improving the firepower of the frontline long-range artillery units and enhancing the efficiency in the operation of tactical nukes," said KCNA in its report. However, no details are available about the location of the test or the missiles involved. Also read | North Korea marks 10 years since Kim Jong Un's election as top party leader In a report by Reuters a senior fellow at the US-based Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Ankit Panda speculates that it was most likely a short-range ballistic missile and potentially the nation’s first tactical nuclear weapon delivery system. Following Biden's election, North Korea conducted a series of 13 missile tests, culminating last month with the launch of a ballistic missile capable of delivering a nuclear bomb to the United States' eastern flank. The tests come shortly after the 110th anniversary of the nation’s founder Kim Il Sung, who is also the grandfather of the current leader Kim Jong Un. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervises new weapon test to enhance nation's 'tactical capabilities'

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

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

North Korea has unveiled a glamorous high-rise apartment building that now adorns the Pyongyang skyline. The 80-story skyscraper is part of Kim Jong Un's latest attempt to turn the capital into what state media calls a 'people-first city'.

North Korea: Why no one wants to live in Penthouses?

North Koreans celebrate founding leader Kim Il Sung's birthday

A former researcher at a high-profile cryptocurrency group was sentenced to five years and three months in prison on Tuesday for conspiring to help North Korea evade US&nbsp;sanctions using cryptocurrency, federal prosecutors in Manhattan said.&nbsp;

Virgil Griffith was arrested in 2019 and pleaded guilty last September to conspiring to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act by travelling to North Korea to present on blockchain technology.

Griffith formerly worked for the Ethereum Foundation, a non-profit that works to support the technology behind the cryptocurrency ether.

The sentence, imposed by US&nbsp;District Judge Kevin Castel, was the minimum amount of prison time prosecutors had sought. Griffith had asked for a sentence of two years. Castel also fined Griffith $100,000, below the $1 million prosecutors suggested.

Griffith's attorney Brian Klein said in a statement that while the sentence was disappointing, the judge "acknowledged Virgil's commitment to moving forward with his life productively and that he is a talented person who has a lot to contribute."

US&nbsp;Attorney Damian Williams said in a statement on Tuesday that "justice has been served."

Griffith, who has a doctorate from the California Institute of Technology, travelled to North Korea via China in April 2019 to deliver a presentation at the Pyongyang Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Conference, despite being denied permission by the U.S. Department of State to go, according to prosecutors.

Prosecutors said Griffith understood the information could be used to evade sanctions the U.S. had imposed on North Korea over its development of nuclear weapons technology.

"The most important feature of blockchains is that they are open. And the DPRK can't be kept out no matter what the USA or the UN says," Griffith said during the presentation, according to prosecutors, using the initials of North Korea's official name.

The Ethereum Foundation said at the time of Griffith's arrest that it had not approved or supported his travel to North Korea.

A former researcher at a high-profile cryptocurrency group was sentenced to five years and three months in prison on Tuesday for conspiring to help North Korea evade US sanctions using cryptocurrency, federal prosecutors in Manhattan said.

A former researcher at a high-profile cryptocurrency group was sentenced to five years and three months in prison on Tuesday for conspiring to help North Korea evade US sanctions using cryptocurrency, federal prosecutors in Manhattan said. Virgil Griffith was arrested in 2019 and pleaded guilty last September to conspiring to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act by travelling to North Korea to present on blockchain technology. Griffith formerly worked for the Ethereum Foundation, a non-profit that works to support the technology behind the cryptocurrency ether. The sentence, imposed by US District Judge Kevin Castel, was the minimum amount of prison time prosecutors had sought. Griffith had asked for a sentence of two years. Castel also fined Griffith $100,000, below the $1 million prosecutors suggested. Griffith's attorney Brian Klein said in a statement that while the sentence was disappointing, the judge "acknowledged Virgil's commitment to moving forward with his life productively and that he is a talented person who has a lot to contribute." US Attorney Damian Williams said in a statement on Tuesday that "justice has been served." Griffith, who has a doctorate from the California Institute of Technology, travelled to North Korea via China in April 2019 to deliver a presentation at the Pyongyang Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Conference, despite being denied permission by the U.S. Department of State to go, according to prosecutors. Prosecutors said Griffith understood the information could be used to evade sanctions the U.S. had imposed on North Korea over its development of nuclear weapons technology. "The most important feature of blockchains is that they are open. And the DPRK can't be kept out no matter what the USA or the UN says," Griffith said during the presentation, according to prosecutors, using the initials of North Korea's official name. The Ethereum Foundation said at the time of Griffith's arrest that it had not approved or supported his travel to North Korea.

US crypto researcher sentenced to five years for helping North Korea evade sanctions

Amid tensions over North Korea's potential nuclear weapon test, reports, citing a US official, have emerged that the USS Abraham Lincoln strike group is operating in waters off the Korean peninsula.&nbsp;

South Korean media also reported that the ships were deployed. Media outlet Arirang reported quoting sources that the ship is currently in international waters east of South Korea's Ulsan City.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the news agency Reuters mentioned that the official said the group is in the Sea of Japan, also known as the East Sea, for exercises with Japanese forces to reassure allies and partners in the region.&nbsp;

The move comes as recently, the US State Department's top North Korea envoy said that Pyongyang could be planning its first nuclear weapon test in nearly five years for its April 15 holiday.&nbsp;

Important to note that this is the first time since 2017 that a carrier group has deployed to the waters between South Korea and Japan.&nbsp;

That year the USS Ronald Reagan, Theodore Roosevelt and Nimitz, and their multi-ship strike groups, deployed in a show of force over North Korea's missile and nuclear weapons tests.&nbsp;

South Korea's Yonhap news agency cited unnamed informed sources who said the USS Abraham Lincoln would be operating in the area for three to five days.&nbsp;

Arirang report added that the defence ministry confirmed that it is currently in the international waters near the country but did not give further details.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia poised to take Mariupol, where is military aid pledged by US, NATO?

<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/russia-poised-to-take-mariupol-where-is-military-aid-pledged-by-us-nato-470418/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Amid tensions over North Korea's potential nuclear weapon test, reports, citing a US official, have emerged that the USS Abraham Lincoln strike group is operating in waters off the Korean peninsula.

Amid tensions over North Korea's potential nuclear weapon test, reports, citing a US official, have emerged that the USS Abraham Lincoln strike group is operating in waters off the Korean peninsula. South Korean media also reported that the ships were deployed. Media outlet Arirang reported quoting sources that the ship is currently in international waters east of South Korea's Ulsan City. On the other hand, the news agency Reuters mentioned that the official said the group is in the Sea of Japan, also known as the East Sea, for exercises with Japanese forces to reassure allies and partners in the region. The move comes as recently, the US State Department's top North Korea envoy said that Pyongyang could be planning its first nuclear weapon test in nearly five years for its April 15 holiday. Important to note that this is the first time since 2017 that a carrier group has deployed to the waters between South Korea and Japan. That year the USS Ronald Reagan, Theodore Roosevelt and Nimitz, and their multi-ship strike groups, deployed in a show of force over North Korea's missile and nuclear weapons tests. South Korea's Yonhap news agency cited unnamed informed sources who said the USS Abraham Lincoln would be operating in the area for three to five days. Arirang report added that the defence ministry confirmed that it is currently in the international waters near the country but did not give further details. WATCH | Russia poised to take Mariupol, where is military aid pledged by US, NATO? × (With inputs from agencies)

Amid tensions with North, US aircraft carrier deploys off Korean peninsula

North Korea on Monday marked 10 years since Kim Jong Un was elected as the leader of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea (WPK).

Praising the North Korean leader, Choe Ryong Hae, member of the Presidium of the Political Bureau of the WPK Central Committee, said "he is a gifted thinker and theoretician, outstanding statesman and peerlessly great commander."&nbsp;

Calling Kim "a peerless patriot and a great defender of peace," Chloe said he made North Korea "a full-fledged military power equipped with all powerful physical means of self-defence."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-north-korea-is-upset-with-pakistan-heres-why-461455/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Kim Jong Un's father, Kim Jong Il, died in December 2011 after which he assumed power as the supreme commander of the military. His has ruled the one-party state for its entire history.

Colin Zwirko, an analytical correspondent with NK News, which monitors North Korea, said on Twitter "Ten years is a fine time for Kim to try and boost his cult of personality even higher."

North Korea is also going to celebrate the 110-year anniversary of the birth of Kim Il Sung, North Korea's founder and Kim Jong Un's grandfather, on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hypersonics-to-cruise-missiles-north-koreas-long-range-ballistic-missile-technology-461354">Also see |&nbsp;From hypersonics to cruise missiles: North Korea's long-range ballistic missile technology</a>

According to the US State Department's top North Korea envoy, Sung Kim "We are worried that in connection with the upcoming April 15 anniversary, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) may be tempted to take another provocative action."&nbsp;

"I don't want to speculate too much, but I think it could be another missile launch, it could be a nuclear test," he said.

Under Kim Jong Un's leadership, North Korea has conducted four of its six nuclear tests, and developed massive intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).

''Kim has opened up a new era for North Korea as a powerful socialist nation prospering and developing with self-sustenance and self-reliance,'' Choe said. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea on Monday marked 10 years since Kim Jong Un was elected as the leader of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea (WPK). Praising the North Korean leader, Choe Ryong Hae, member of the Presidium of the Political Bureau of the WPK Central Committee, said "he is a gifted thinker and theoretician, outstanding statesman and peerlessly great commander.

North Korea on Monday marked 10 years since Kim Jong Un was elected as the leader of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea (WPK). Praising the North Korean leader, Choe Ryong Hae, member of the Presidium of the Political Bureau of the WPK Central Committee, said "he is a gifted thinker and theoretician, outstanding statesman and peerlessly great commander." Calling Kim "a peerless patriot and a great defender of peace," Chloe said he made North Korea "a full-fledged military power equipped with all powerful physical means of self-defence." Kim Jong Un's father, Kim Jong Il, died in December 2011 after which he assumed power as the supreme commander of the military. His has ruled the one-party state for its entire history. Colin Zwirko, an analytical correspondent with NK News, which monitors North Korea, said on Twitter "Ten years is a fine time for Kim to try and boost his cult of personality even higher." North Korea is also going to celebrate the 110-year anniversary of the birth of Kim Il Sung, North Korea's founder and Kim Jong Un's grandfather, on Friday. Also see | From hypersonics to cruise missiles: North Korea's long-range ballistic missile technology According to the US State Department's top North Korea envoy, Sung Kim "We are worried that in connection with the upcoming April 15 anniversary, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) may be tempted to take another provocative action." "I don't want to speculate too much, but I think it could be another missile launch, it could be a nuclear test," he said. Under Kim Jong Un's leadership, North Korea has conducted four of its six nuclear tests, and developed massive intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). ''Kim has opened up a new era for North Korea as a powerful socialist nation prospering and developing with self-sustenance and self-reliance,'' Choe said. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea marks 10 years since Kim Jong Un's election as top party leader

North Korea has announced the demolition of&nbsp;a South Korean-owned hotel which is one of the last symbols of the inter-Korean engagement.

It comes after North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un called the South Korean facilities in the Kumgang city “shabby.”

Seoul officials have called for the North to stop the “unilateral” destruction. Unification Ministry spokesperson Cha Deok-cheol said Seoul “strongly regrets North Korea’s unilateral dismantlement” of the hotel.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-north-korea-is-upset-with-pakistan-heres-why-461455/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Cha said Seoul used inter-Korean communication channels to demand an explanation and talks on the issue, but the North has ignored the request.

During a high period of engagement between the rivals in the 1990s, South Korea built dozens of facilities at North Korea’s Diamond Mountain resort to accommodate tourism by its citizens.

South Korean tours to Diamond Mountain were a major symbol of cooperation between the Koreas. It was also a valuable cash source for the North’s broken economy before the South suspended them in 2008 after a North Korean guard fatally shot a South Korean tourist.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-is-north-korea-known-as-the-most-isolated-country-in-the-world-430945">Also read |&nbsp;Why is North Korea known as the most isolated country in the world?</a>

After months of frustration over Seoul’s unwillingness to defy US-led sanctions that kept the tours from resuming, Kim Jong-Un ordered the destuction of the resort.

The US State Department's top North Korea envoy, Sung Kim has said, "We are worried that in connection with the upcoming April 15 anniversary, the DPRK may be tempted to take another provocative action."

"I don't want to speculate too much, but I think it could be another missile launch, it could be a nuclear test," he said.

"We have not received any response from Pyongyang, which is very disappointing, because we have sent several messages, both public and private, inviting them to a dialogue without any conditions."&nbsp;

"Instead they have initiated a series of missile tests that recently culminated in at least three ICBM launches. These actions pose a serious threat to regional stability," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea has announced the demolition of a South Korean-owned hotel which is one of the last symbols of the inter-Korean engagement. It comes after North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un called the South Korean facilities in the Kumgang city “shabby.

North Korea has announced the demolition of a South Korean-owned hotel which is one of the last symbols of the inter-Korean engagement. It comes after North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un called the South Korean facilities in the Kumgang city “shabby.” Seoul officials have called for the North to stop the “unilateral” destruction. Unification Ministry spokesperson Cha Deok-cheol said Seoul “strongly regrets North Korea’s unilateral dismantlement” of the hotel. Cha said Seoul used inter-Korean communication channels to demand an explanation and talks on the issue, but the North has ignored the request. During a high period of engagement between the rivals in the 1990s, South Korea built dozens of facilities at North Korea’s Diamond Mountain resort to accommodate tourism by its citizens. South Korean tours to Diamond Mountain were a major symbol of cooperation between the Koreas. It was also a valuable cash source for the North’s broken economy before the South suspended them in 2008 after a North Korean guard fatally shot a South Korean tourist. Also read | Why is North Korea known as the most isolated country in the world? After months of frustration over Seoul’s unwillingness to defy US-led sanctions that kept the tours from resuming, Kim Jong-Un ordered the destuction of the resort. The US State Department's top North Korea envoy, Sung Kim has said, "We are worried that in connection with the upcoming April 15 anniversary, the DPRK may be tempted to take another provocative action." "I don't want to speculate too much, but I think it could be another missile launch, it could be a nuclear test," he said. "We have not received any response from Pyongyang, which is very disappointing, because we have sent several messages, both public and private, inviting them to a dialogue without any conditions." "Instead they have initiated a series of missile tests that recently culminated in at least three ICBM launches. These actions pose a serious threat to regional stability," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea is demolishing a South Korean-owned hotel which is symbol of inter-Korean engagement

Pyongyang is ignoring US overtures for talks and could be planning its first nuclear weapon test in nearly five years for its April 15 holiday,&nbsp;the State Department's top North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;envoy said Wednesday.

Sung Kim, the Special Representative for North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;Policy, said Washington thinks Pyongyang could be planning a big show of its growing nuclear weapons capacity on the annual holiday next week, which will celebrate the 110th anniversary of the birth of Kim Il Sung, who founded the modern Democratic People's Republic of&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;(DPRK).

"We are worried that in connection with the upcoming April 15 anniversary, the DPRK may be tempted to take another provocative action," Kim told reporters, referring to North&nbsp;Korea's recent ballistic missile test launches.

"I don't want to speculate too much, but I think it could be another missile launch, it could be a nuclear test," he said.

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has tested nuclear weapons several times starting in 2006, and its last test was in 2017.

Pyongyang has continued to ignore Washington's overtures to resume discussions about removing all nuclear weapons from the Korean peninsula, Kim said.

"We have not received any response from Pyongyang, which is very disappointing, because we have sent several messages, both public and private, inviting them to a dialogue without any conditions," he said.

"Instead they have initiated a series of missile tests that recently culminated in at least three ICBM launches. These actions pose a serious threat to regional stability."

Kim also said that China and Russia were not helping President Joe Biden's push to restart talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Talks aimed at containing Pyongyang's nuclear threat appeared to gain traction under the previous US administration of Donald Trump, but then stopped.&nbsp;

After Biden took office, North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;began a series of missile tests, 13 in all, that culminated last month with the test of a ballistic missile that could potentially deliver a nuclear warhead to the eastern United States.

The tests have alarmed North&nbsp;Korea's immediate neighbors South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and Japan.

On Tuesday, Kim Jong Un's powerful sister Kim Yo Jong warned that Pyongyang will use its nuclear weapons to "eliminate" South&nbsp;Korea's army in the event they launch a preemptive strike.

Sung Kim said that Washington is pushing for a fresh resolution condemning Pyongyang's actions at the UN Security Council.

But he noted that in six earlier efforts this year, Russia and China "have consistently blocked our efforts to produce a UN public statement."

Pyongyang is ignoring US overtures for talks and could be planning its first nuclear weapon test in nearly five years for its April 15 holiday, the State Department's top North Korea envoy said Wednesday.

Pyongyang is ignoring US overtures for talks and could be planning its first nuclear weapon test in nearly five years for its April 15 holiday, the State Department's top North Korea envoy said Wednesday. Sung Kim, the Special Representative for North Korea Policy, said Washington thinks Pyongyang could be planning a big show of its growing nuclear weapons capacity on the annual holiday next week, which will celebrate the 110th anniversary of the birth of Kim Il Sung, who founded the modern Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). "We are worried that in connection with the upcoming April 15 anniversary, the DPRK may be tempted to take another provocative action," Kim told reporters, referring to North Korea's recent ballistic missile test launches. "I don't want to speculate too much, but I think it could be another missile launch, it could be a nuclear test," he said. North Korea has tested nuclear weapons several times starting in 2006, and its last test was in 2017. Pyongyang has continued to ignore Washington's overtures to resume discussions about removing all nuclear weapons from the Korean peninsula, Kim said. "We have not received any response from Pyongyang, which is very disappointing, because we have sent several messages, both public and private, inviting them to a dialogue without any conditions," he said. "Instead they have initiated a series of missile tests that recently culminated in at least three ICBM launches. These actions pose a serious threat to regional stability." Kim also said that China and Russia were not helping President Joe Biden's push to restart talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Talks aimed at containing Pyongyang's nuclear threat appeared to gain traction under the previous US administration of Donald Trump, but then stopped. After Biden took office, North Korea began a series of missile tests, 13 in all, that culminated last month with the test of a ballistic missile that could potentially deliver a nuclear warhead to the eastern United States. The tests have alarmed North Korea's immediate neighbors South Korea and Japan. On Tuesday, Kim Jong Un's powerful sister Kim Yo Jong warned that Pyongyang will use its nuclear weapons to "eliminate" South Korea's army in the event they launch a preemptive strike. Sung Kim said that Washington is pushing for a fresh resolution condemning Pyongyang's actions at the UN Security Council. But he noted that in six earlier efforts this year, Russia and China "have consistently blocked our efforts to produce a UN public statement."

US envoy says North Korea could hold nuclear test on coming anniversary

US says that North Korea could be planning a big show of its growing nuclear weapons on April 15. In recent times, Pyongyang began a series of missile tests since President came to power conducting 13 missile tests. North Korea has ignored US overtures for talks

US : North Korea could hold its nuclear weapons test next week

Kim Jong-un’s sister has threatened to attack South Korea with nuclear weapons. Kim Yo-jong said North Korea will “annihilate” the South’s army if provoked. Her sharp retort came in response to South Korea’s defence minister Suh Wook who discussed Seoul’s ability to accurately and quickly hit any target in North Korea.

North Korea will ‘annihilate’ South with nukes, warns Kim Jong-un’s sister

North Korea will use its nuclear weapons to “annihilate” the South Korean army if they ever launch a pre-emptive strike, King Jong-un’s&nbsp;sister said on Tuesday, according to state media.

She said that her country’s "primary mission" is to build nuclear forces as a deterrent, and added that if an armed conflict breaks out, such weapons will be used for “eliminating the enemy's armed forces at a strike”.

Kim Yo-jong’s sharp retort came in response to South Korea’s defence minister Suh Wook who last week discussed Seoul’s ability to “accurately and quickly hit any target in North Korea” with a range of weapons, in the wake of North’s recent resumption of long-range missile tests.

In another statement directed toward Suh on Sunday, she called him a “scum-like guy” and warned that South may face a “serious threat” because of his comments, reported AFP news agency.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-is-north-korea-known-as-the-most-isolated-country-in-the-world-430945">Why is North Korea known as the most isolated country in the world?</a>

Kim Yo-jong, who reportedly holds several senior positions in the government and the ruling party, said that the North has no intention to start a second Korean war, but if provoked, they will leave the South’s military in a state of “total destruction and ruin”.

The flurry of exchanges between the two Korean nations comes&nbsp;in the backdrop of North Korea launching a series of ballistic missile tests, raising concerns among the South Korean establishment and the West.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-a-us-hacker-took-down-north-koreas-internet-in-a-revenge-cyber-attack-450032">How a US hacker took down North Korea's internet in a revenge cyber-attack</a>

So far, the South Korean government has not responded to her comments made on Tuesday.

Seoul had issued a low-key response following Kim’s earlier comments on Sunday, urging Pyongyang to refrain from further raising tensions and return to dialogue.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea will use its nuclear weapons to “annihilate” the South Korean army if they ever launch a pre-emptive strike, King Jong-un’s sister said on Tuesday, according to state media.

North Korea will use its nuclear weapons to “annihilate” the South Korean army if they ever launch a pre-emptive strike, King Jong-un’s sister said on Tuesday, according to state media. She said that her country’s "primary mission" is to build nuclear forces as a deterrent, and added that if an armed conflict breaks out, such weapons will be used for “eliminating the enemy's armed forces at a strike”. Kim Yo-jong’s sharp retort came in response to South Korea’s defence minister Suh Wook who last week discussed Seoul’s ability to “accurately and quickly hit any target in North Korea” with a range of weapons, in the wake of North’s recent resumption of long-range missile tests. In another statement directed toward Suh on Sunday, she called him a “scum-like guy” and warned that South may face a “serious threat” because of his comments, reported AFP news agency. Also read | Why is North Korea known as the most isolated country in the world? Kim Yo-jong, who reportedly holds several senior positions in the government and the ruling party, said that the North has no intention to start a second Korean war, but if provoked, they will leave the South’s military in a state of “total destruction and ruin”. The flurry of exchanges between the two Korean nations comes in the backdrop of North Korea launching a series of ballistic missile tests, raising concerns among the South Korean establishment and the West. Also read | How a US hacker took down North Korea's internet in a revenge cyber-attack So far, the South Korean government has not responded to her comments made on Tuesday. Seoul had issued a low-key response following Kim’s earlier comments on Sunday, urging Pyongyang to refrain from further raising tensions and return to dialogue. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea will ‘annihilate’ South with nukes if provoked, warns King Jong-un’s sister

Tensions have risen drastically in the Korean peninsula after North Korea issues a 'Nuclear' threat to South Korea and its allies.

Tensions rise in the Korean peninsula after North Korea issues a 'Nuclear' threat

Threats and counterstatements seem to have become rife in Koreas. In the latest development, Kim Yo Jong, who is the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, condemned South Korean defence minister's remarks on Sunday, state news agency KCNA reported. &nbsp;

The minister had commented on the neighbour's ability to strike the North, a Reuters report said citing KCNA.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-is-linked-to-a-cyberattack-disguised-as-a-covid-vaccine-467798" hreflang="en">North Korea is linked to a cyberattack disguised as a Covid vaccine</a>

The comment "has further worsened the inter-Korean relations and military tension on the Korean peninsula," the North Korean leader’s sister was quoted as saying by the KCNA. &nbsp;

Yo Jong, vice department director, Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea, also said the country would "reconsider a lot of things" and that South Korea "may face a serious threat" due to these remarks. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Getting inked is a crime in South Korea as it upholds the ban on Tattoos

<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/getting-inked-is-a-crime-in-south-korea-as-it-upholds-the-ban-on-tattoos-467581/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

On Friday, South Korean Defence Minister Suh Wook had said his country’s military has a variety of missiles with significantly improved firing range, accuracy and power, with "the ability to accurately and quickly hit any target in North Korea." &nbsp;

The ministry will also support the military to respond overwhelmingly to missile threats by North Korea, Suh also said. He had also called the north its "enemy." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Threats and counterstatements seem to have become rife in Koreas. In the latest development, Kim Yo Jong, who is the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, condemned South Korean defence minister's remarks on Sunday, state news agency KCNA reported.

Threats and counterstatements seem to have become rife in Koreas. In the latest development, Kim Yo Jong, who is the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, condemned South Korean defence minister's remarks on Sunday, state news agency KCNA reported. The minister had commented on the neighbour's ability to strike the North, a Reuters report said citing KCNA. Also Read: North Korea is linked to a cyberattack disguised as a Covid vaccine The comment "has further worsened the inter-Korean relations and military tension on the Korean peninsula," the North Korean leader’s sister was quoted as saying by the KCNA. Yo Jong, vice department director, Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea, also said the country would "reconsider a lot of things" and that South Korea "may face a serious threat" due to these remarks. Watch: Getting inked is a crime in South Korea as it upholds the ban on Tattoos × On Friday, South Korean Defence Minister Suh Wook had said his country’s military has a variety of missiles with significantly improved firing range, accuracy and power, with "the ability to accurately and quickly hit any target in North Korea." The ministry will also support the military to respond overwhelmingly to missile threats by North Korea, Suh also said. He had also called the north its "enemy." (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea slams South minister’s remarks over military strike capability, warns of response  

Hackers linked to North Korea were suspected of carrying out a cyberattack on South Koreans through emails disguised as official messages sent from a medical journal calling on recipients to book appointments for a new coronavirus vaccine, a South Korean cybersecurity company said in a statement Friday.

The cyberattack, which came less than a week after North Korea conducted its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile test to date, was sent from an email address belonging to the Korean Society for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, the company said. This was possible because the hackers had infiltrated the medical journal’s server and email account in what the company, ESTsecurity, called a phishing attack.

“We have confirmed that the camouflage methods and tactical commands used to steal the account exactly matched the other cases of cyberattacks linked to North Korea,” the company said, adding that the email’s header contained a code found in previous attacks that analysts have linked to North Korea.

Previously, North Korean hackers have used cyberattacks on governments, companies and financial institutions to steal information and millions of dollars to fund their own government. ESTsecurity has also attributed to North Korea similar phishing attacks sent from email addresses belonging to agencies such as the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Unification.

The latest email attack targeted mostly South Koreans working in fields dealing with North Korea, the company said, and appeared to be designed to trick the recipients into providing personal information to the hackers by making them believe they were registering for the new vaccine.

A screenshot of the email included in ESTsecurity’s statement showed language advertising “the newest COVID-19 vaccine,” information on when it would be available to “purchase” and a link that the company said was disguised as a vaccine registration site.

“On March 25, 2022, the vaccine was researched and developed by the N.I.H., a national medical research institute under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,” the email said, adding that the new vaccine was effective for people ages 65 and older against new variants, including delta and omicron. The emails were sent Tuesday.

Hackers linked to North Korea were suspected of carrying out a cyberattack on South Koreans through emails disguised as official messages sent from a medical journal calling on recipients to book appointments for a new coronavirus vaccine, a South Korean cybersecurity company said in a statement Friday.

Hackers linked to North Korea were suspected of carrying out a cyberattack on South Koreans through emails disguised as official messages sent from a medical journal calling on recipients to book appointments for a new coronavirus vaccine, a South Korean cybersecurity company said in a statement Friday. The cyberattack, which came less than a week after North Korea conducted its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile test to date, was sent from an email address belonging to the Korean Society for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, the company said. This was possible because the hackers had infiltrated the medical journal’s server and email account in what the company, ESTsecurity, called a phishing attack. “We have confirmed that the camouflage methods and tactical commands used to steal the account exactly matched the other cases of cyberattacks linked to North Korea,” the company said, adding that the email’s header contained a code found in previous attacks that analysts have linked to North Korea. Previously, North Korean hackers have used cyberattacks on governments, companies and financial institutions to steal information and millions of dollars to fund their own government. ESTsecurity has also attributed to North Korea similar phishing attacks sent from email addresses belonging to agencies such as the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Unification. The latest email attack targeted mostly South Koreans working in fields dealing with North Korea, the company said, and appeared to be designed to trick the recipients into providing personal information to the hackers by making them believe they were registering for the new vaccine. A screenshot of the email included in ESTsecurity’s statement showed language advertising “the newest COVID-19 vaccine,” information on when it would be available to “purchase” and a link that the company said was disguised as a vaccine registration site. “On March 25, 2022, the vaccine was researched and developed by the N.I.H., a national medical research institute under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,” the email said, adding that the new vaccine was effective for people ages 65 and older against new variants, including delta and omicron. The emails were sent Tuesday.

North Korea is linked to a cyberattack disguised as a Covid vaccine

There are increasing signs that North Korea could soon test a nuclear weapon for the first time since 2017 in a bid to improve its arsenal and increase political pressure, U.S. and South Korean officials and analysts said.

Two US&nbsp;officials told Reuters that there were indications, including activity near the Punggye-ri nuclear site, that Pyongyang may be preparing for some sort of test, though an exact timing was unclear.

A South Korean military official confirmed that they were tracking activity to restore one of the tunnels used for nuclear tests.

Watch | South Korea questions North Korea's ICMB launch, says fakery to divert attention

<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/south-korea-questions-north-koreas-icmb-launch-says-fakery-to-divert-attention-467163/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby declined this week to comment, but said Washington is concerned about the possibility of new tests because they would be an opportunity for North Korea to enhance its arsenal.

"Every time you test you learn.... We know that this is a programme that they want to improve," he told a briefing on Tuesday. "And so of course, we're concerned about efforts to do that."

Analysts say that more testing could help North Korea reach its stated goals of making smaller nuclear warheads and improving their reliability.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-issues-fresh-north-korea-sanctions-after-recent-missile-launches-467515">US issues fresh North Korea sanctions after recent missile launch</a>

A resumption of nuclear tests could send political shockwaves through the region. China and Russia had joined the United States and other United Nations Security Council members in sanctioning Pyongyang over its previous tests, but in the wake of last week's intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) flight, both Beijing and Moscow signalled opposition to any new measures and said sanctions should be eased.

Liu Xiaoming, China's envoy for Korean affairs, has called on all sides to show restraint, but said the root cause of tensions is Washington's failure to address North Korea's legitimate security concerns and to reciprocate steps Pyongyang had taken since 2018.

On Thursday State Department spokesman Ned Price said Washington remains open to talks, but that continued provocations by North Korea would incur additional responses from the international community.

A NUCLEAR SITE REBORN

North Korea has conducted all six of its nuclear tests in deep tunnels dug under the mountains at Punngye-ri. In 2018 it used explosives to close old entrances in front of invited foreign media but not international experts, raising questions about the extent of the demolition.

That year Pyongyang declared a voluntary moratorium on testing nuclear weapons and its ICBMs. Since then, it has said it is not bound to that because of a lack of reciprocal moves by the United States and its allies. Last month, it test-fired ICBMs for the first time since 2017.

Commercial satellite imagery from Thursday shows probable new excavation at the site's South Portal, just east of a former tunnel entrance that was destroyed as part of site dismantlement efforts in 2018, 38 North, a U.S.-based programme that monitors North Korea, said in a report.

Although some South Korean media reports suggested that workers were building "shortcuts" to connect with the test tunnels as quickly as possible, it seems more likely they were trying to excavate into a stable point rather than digging through the fractured rock around the former entrance, 38 North said.

The organisation noted that some technical buildings such as the site's command and control centre were not destroyed in 2018.

Since December, satellite imagery has showed activity at the main administrative area, the Vienna-based Open Nuclear Network (ONN) said in a report this week.

Notably, the South Portal tunnel that North Korea appears be reactivating was not previously used for testing, the ONN report said. Piles of what might be logs, often used to shore up such tunnels, have also been spotted, it added.

A separate 38 North report said satellite imagery shows increased activity around North Korea’s Sohae Satellite Launching Station, after leader Kim Jong Un ordered its expansion as part of a programme to launch spy satellites to monitor military moves by the United States and its allies.

There are increasing signs that North Korea could soon test a nuclear weapon for the first time since 2017 in a bid to improve its arsenal and increase political pressure, U.

There are increasing signs that North Korea could soon test a nuclear weapon for the first time since 2017 in a bid to improve its arsenal and increase political pressure, U.S. and South Korean officials and analysts said. Two US officials told Reuters that there were indications, including activity near the Punggye-ri nuclear site, that Pyongyang may be preparing for some sort of test, though an exact timing was unclear. A South Korean military official confirmed that they were tracking activity to restore one of the tunnels used for nuclear tests. Watch | South Korea questions North Korea's ICMB launch, says fakery to divert attention × Pentagon spokesman John Kirby declined this week to comment, but said Washington is concerned about the possibility of new tests because they would be an opportunity for North Korea to enhance its arsenal. "Every time you test you learn.... We know that this is a programme that they want to improve," he told a briefing on Tuesday. "And so of course, we're concerned about efforts to do that." Analysts say that more testing could help North Korea reach its stated goals of making smaller nuclear warheads and improving their reliability. Also Read | US issues fresh North Korea sanctions after recent missile launch A resumption of nuclear tests could send political shockwaves through the region. China and Russia had joined the United States and other United Nations Security Council members in sanctioning Pyongyang over its previous tests, but in the wake of last week's intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) flight, both Beijing and Moscow signalled opposition to any new measures and said sanctions should be eased. Liu Xiaoming, China's envoy for Korean affairs, has called on all sides to show restraint, but said the root cause of tensions is Washington's failure to address North Korea's legitimate security concerns and to reciprocate steps Pyongyang had taken since 2018. On Thursday State Department spokesman Ned Price said Washington remains open to talks, but that continued provocations by North Korea would incur additional responses from the international community. A NUCLEAR SITE REBORN North Korea has conducted all six of its nuclear tests in deep tunnels dug under the mountains at Punngye-ri. In 2018 it used explosives to close old entrances in front of invited foreign media but not international experts, raising questions about the extent of the demolition. That year Pyongyang declared a voluntary moratorium on testing nuclear weapons and its ICBMs. Since then, it has said it is not bound to that because of a lack of reciprocal moves by the United States and its allies. Last month, it test-fired ICBMs for the first time since 2017. Commercial satellite imagery from Thursday shows probable new excavation at the site's South Portal, just east of a former tunnel entrance that was destroyed as part of site dismantlement efforts in 2018, 38 North, a U.S.-based programme that monitors North Korea, said in a report. Although some South Korean media reports suggested that workers were building "shortcuts" to connect with the test tunnels as quickly as possible, it seems more likely they were trying to excavate into a stable point rather than digging through the fractured rock around the former entrance, 38 North said. The organisation noted that some technical buildings such as the site's command and control centre were not destroyed in 2018. Since December, satellite imagery has showed activity at the main administrative area, the Vienna-based Open Nuclear Network (ONN) said in a report this week. Notably, the South Portal tunnel that North Korea appears be reactivating was not previously used for testing, the ONN report said. Piles of what might be logs, often used to shore up such tunnels, have also been spotted, it added. A separate 38 North report said satellite imagery shows increased activity around North Korea’s Sohae Satellite Launching Station, after leader Kim Jong Un ordered its expansion as part of a programme to launch spy satellites to monitor military moves by the United States and its allies.

North Korea may be preparing new nuclear tests to improve arsenal: US and allies

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un appeared in a stylish video last week which was said to be taken during the launch of the country's latest Intercontinental ballistic missile launch on the 24th of March but now neighbour South Korea has raised doubts over the authenticity of the North Korea's claim.

South Korea questions North Korea's ICMB launch, says fakery to divert attention

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said that powerful weapons help in keeping under control all threats and blackmails by the imperialists, the country's state media KCNA reported on Monday (March 28).&nbsp;

The North Korean leader also said that the country will continue to develop "formidable striking capabilities" that cannot be bartered or sold for anything.&nbsp;

In recent months, North Korea has ramped up the testing of powerful missiles. The comments were made as Kim visited workers involved with the country's biggest missile test.&nbsp;

The state news agency reported that Kim was meeting with officials, scientists, technicians and workers who contributed to a missile launch on Thursday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-zelensky-says-ukraine-ready-to-discuss-adopting-neutral-status-466182">President Zelensky says Ukraine ready to discuss adopting neutral status</a>

North Korea said that it was its largest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). It has been understood the powerful ICBM was first unveiled in October 2020, It was dubbed a "monster missile" by analysts and known as the Hwasong-17.&nbsp;

As quoted by KCNA, Kim said, "Only when one is equipped with the formidable striking capabilities, overwhelming military power that cannot be stopped by anyone, one can prevent a war, guarantee the security of the country and contain and put under control all threats and blackmails by the imperialists."&nbsp;

Promising to keep developing such weapons, Kim said, "We will continue to attain the goal of reinforcing national defence capabilities."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wary-of-escalation-france-calls-for-restraint-after-bidens-butcher-jibe-466052">Wary of escalation, France calls for restraint after Biden's 'butcher' jibe</a>

The latest missile launch appeared to have travelled higher and further than any previous ICBM tested by the nuclear-armed country.&nbsp;

Analysts say the successful launch may have emboldened Kim's confidence that his country is on the right track to achieving nuclear deterrence and that more such tests should be expected.&nbsp;

WATCH&nbsp;|&nbsp;UNSC holds meeting on North Korea missile test: U.S. calls for added sanctions

<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/unsc-holds-meeting-on-north-korea-missile-test-us-calls-for-added-sanctions-465658/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said that powerful weapons help in keeping under control all threats and blackmails by the imperialists, the country's state media KCNA reported on Monday (March 28).

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said that powerful weapons help in keeping under control all threats and blackmails by the imperialists, the country's state media KCNA reported on Monday (March 28). The North Korean leader also said that the country will continue to develop "formidable striking capabilities" that cannot be bartered or sold for anything. In recent months, North Korea has ramped up the testing of powerful missiles. The comments were made as Kim visited workers involved with the country's biggest missile test. The state news agency reported that Kim was meeting with officials, scientists, technicians and workers who contributed to a missile launch on Thursday. ALSO READ | President Zelensky says Ukraine ready to discuss adopting neutral status North Korea said that it was its largest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). It has been understood the powerful ICBM was first unveiled in October 2020, It was dubbed a "monster missile" by analysts and known as the Hwasong-17. As quoted by KCNA, Kim said, "Only when one is equipped with the formidable striking capabilities, overwhelming military power that cannot be stopped by anyone, one can prevent a war, guarantee the security of the country and contain and put under control all threats and blackmails by the imperialists." Promising to keep developing such weapons, Kim said, "We will continue to attain the goal of reinforcing national defence capabilities." ALSO READ | Wary of escalation, France calls for restraint after Biden's 'butcher' jibe The latest missile launch appeared to have travelled higher and further than any previous ICBM tested by the nuclear-armed country. Analysts say the successful launch may have emboldened Kim's confidence that his country is on the right track to achieving nuclear deterrence and that more such tests should be expected. WATCH | UNSC holds meeting on North Korea missile test: U.S. calls for added sanctions ×

Powerful weapons check threats made by imperialists: North Korea

The United States called on Friday for&nbsp;tougher&nbsp;international&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;against&nbsp;North Korea at the&nbsp;UN&nbsp;Security&nbsp;Council, accusing Pyongyang of "increasingly dangerous provocations" after it test-fired its largest-ever intercontinental ballistic missile.

"The United States&nbsp;calls&nbsp;on all member states to fully implement the existing&nbsp;Security&nbsp;Council&nbsp;resolutions," US Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield said during the meeting convened to discuss North Korea.

"Because of DPRK's increasingly dangerous provocations, the United States will be introducing a...&nbsp;Security&nbsp;Council&nbsp;resolution to update and strengthen the&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;regime" that was adopted in December 2017, she said, using the official acronym for North Korea.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/north-korea-tests-new-icbm-465382">In Pics: What is new ICBM tested by North Korea giving sleepless nights to US</a>

At the time "the&nbsp;council&nbsp;decided we would take further action in the event of a DPRK ICBM launch," Thomas-Greenfield said.

"This is precisely what happened. So now is the time to take that action."

The unanimously adopted text was voted on a month after Pyongyang fired its last previous intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Hwasong-15, which was deemed powerful enough to reach the continental United States.

Following Friday's meeting, a group of 15 nations including permanent&nbsp;Security&nbsp;Council&nbsp;members Britain, France and the US -- but minus China and Russia -- released a joint statement condemning Pyongyang's latest launch "in the strongest terms" and warning it "poses a threat" to the entire international community.

"The DPRK is demonstrating its determination to continue advancing its weapons program as it escalates its provocative behavior -- and yet the&nbsp;Council&nbsp;has remained silent," said the countries, which include non-permanent&nbsp;Security&nbsp;Council&nbsp;members Brazil, Ireland and Norway, as well as Germany, Japan and South Korea.

The statement urged&nbsp;UN&nbsp;states, especially&nbsp;Security&nbsp;Council&nbsp;members, "to join us in condemning this behavior and in urging the DPRK to abandon its weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs and engage in diplomacy toward denuclearization."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-north-koreas-goes-hollywood-in-new-missile-launch-video-twitteratis-give-it-top-gun-spin-465464">Watch: North Korea goes Hollywood in new missile launch video, Twitterati give it a ‘Top Gun’ spin</a>

China addressed the&nbsp;Security&nbsp;Council&nbsp;meeting and urged "prudence and reason" regarding North Korea.

"All is not quiet on the international front. No parties should take any action that would lead to greater tensions," China's&nbsp;UN&nbsp;ambassador Zhang Jun said.

Russia, for its part, warned&nbsp;against&nbsp;following Washington's lead on tightening&nbsp;sanctions.

Deputy Russian envoy to the&nbsp;UN&nbsp;Anna Evstigneeva said Moscow believes that doing so would "go beyond the framework of cutting off financing" for the DPRK missile and nuclear programs and would "threaten North Korean citizens with unacceptable socio-economic and humanitarian problems."

In 2018, North Korean leader Kim Jong&nbsp;Un&nbsp;formalized a moratorium on nuclear testing and long-range ballistic missile launches, stating that his goals had been met and proclaiming his country a fully nuclear state.

He nonetheless personally supervised Thursday's launch, which state media outlet KCNA reported was meant to ensure the country is ready for "long-standing confrontation" with the United States.

The Group of Seven nations and the EU on Friday condemned what they said was North Korea's "blatant violation" of its obligations under&nbsp;Security&nbsp;Council&nbsp;resolutions.

Watch |&nbsp;North Korea tests massive ballistic missile: Why has Kim Jong Un tested dozens missiles in 2022?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-tests-massive-ballistic-missile-why-has-kim-jong-un-tested-dozens-missiles-in-2022-465397/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The United States called on Friday for tougher international sanctions against North Korea at the UN Security Council, accusing Pyongyang of "increasingly dangerous provocations" after it test-fired its largest-ever intercontinental ballistic missile.

The United States called on Friday for tougher international sanctions against North Korea at the UN Security Council, accusing Pyongyang of "increasingly dangerous provocations" after it test-fired its largest-ever intercontinental ballistic missile. "The United States calls on all member states to fully implement the existing Security Council resolutions," US Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield said during the meeting convened to discuss North Korea. "Because of DPRK's increasingly dangerous provocations, the United States will be introducing a... Security Council resolution to update and strengthen the sanctions regime" that was adopted in December 2017, she said, using the official acronym for North Korea. Also read | In Pics: What is new ICBM tested by North Korea giving sleepless nights to US At the time "the council decided we would take further action in the event of a DPRK ICBM launch," Thomas-Greenfield said. "This is precisely what happened. So now is the time to take that action." The unanimously adopted text was voted on a month after Pyongyang fired its last previous intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Hwasong-15, which was deemed powerful enough to reach the continental United States. Following Friday's meeting, a group of 15 nations including permanent Security Council members Britain, France and the US -- but minus China and Russia -- released a joint statement condemning Pyongyang's latest launch "in the strongest terms" and warning it "poses a threat" to the entire international community. "The DPRK is demonstrating its determination to continue advancing its weapons program as it escalates its provocative behavior -- and yet the Council has remained silent," said the countries, which include non-permanent Security Council members Brazil, Ireland and Norway, as well as Germany, Japan and South Korea. The statement urged UN states, especially Security Council members, "to join us in condemning this behavior and in urging the DPRK to abandon its weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs and engage in diplomacy toward denuclearization." Also read | Watch: North Korea goes Hollywood in new missile launch video, Twitterati give it a ‘Top Gun’ spin China addressed the Security Council meeting and urged "prudence and reason" regarding North Korea. "All is not quiet on the international front. No parties should take any action that would lead to greater tensions," China's UN ambassador Zhang Jun said. Russia, for its part, warned against following Washington's lead on tightening sanctions. Deputy Russian envoy to the UN Anna Evstigneeva said Moscow believes that doing so would "go beyond the framework of cutting off financing" for the DPRK missile and nuclear programs and would "threaten North Korean citizens with unacceptable socio-economic and humanitarian problems." In 2018, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un formalized a moratorium on nuclear testing and long-range ballistic missile launches, stating that his goals had been met and proclaiming his country a fully nuclear state. He nonetheless personally supervised Thursday's launch, which state media outlet KCNA reported was meant to ensure the country is ready for "long-standing confrontation" with the United States. The Group of Seven nations and the EU on Friday condemned what they said was North Korea's "blatant violation" of its obligations under Security Council resolutions. Watch | North Korea tests massive ballistic missile: Why has Kim Jong Un tested dozens missiles in 2022?

US calls for tougher UN Security Council sanctions against North Korea

The United Nations Security Council held a meeting over North Korea's recent ballistic missile test. The United States called for added sanctions on North Korea.

UNSC holds meeting on North Korea missile test: U.S. calls for added sanctions

The United States has flagged violation of UN security council as North Korea test-fired new ICBM. Tensions with Japan and South Korea also mounted.

North Korea tests new ICBM, South Korea fires back in retaliation

When North Korea on Thursday conducted a test of its most ​powerful intercontinental ballistic missile to date, South Korea’s Defense Ministry was busy with another urgent task: making plans to move.

Earlier this month, South Korea’s president-elect, Yoon Suk-yeol, announced plans to move the Defense Ministry to another building in Seoul so that his presidential office could move into the ministry’s current headquarters by May 10, the day of his inauguration.

The ministry was caught off guard by Yoon’s decision, which came at a time when North Korea is rapidly escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula. North Korea has often used presidential transitions as an opportunity to make a show of force. This year, the confusion created by Yoon’s plan to relocate both the presidential office and the Defense Ministry could add to the South’s security concerns, analysts said.

The current presidential office is situated in the Blue House, a secluded compound with graceful pine trees and manicured lawns, nestled between the capital’s ancient Gyeongbokgung Palace and Mount Bukaksan. During his election campaign, Yoon said he would make the Blue House a park and “return it to the people.”

The Blue House has been the seat of presidential power since the birth of South Korea at the end of World War II. Its location has come to symbolize the secrecy and unbridled power of the president. Almost all South Korean presidents have been either imprisoned or embroiled in corruption scandals after leaving office.

South Korea’s social media was abuzz with rumors that Yoon’s wife, Kim Kun-hee, had been told by shamans that the Blue House was cursed and should not be occupied by the president-elect. Yoon’s transition team dismissed those rumors as groundless.

“I know there is concern that I am hurrying too much to move the presidential office,” Yoon said at a news conference Sunday. “But I thought that once I moved into the Blue House, it would become more difficult to get out of the place, a symbol of imperial power of the president.”

Moving both the presidential office and the Defense Ministry — with their underground bunkers equipped with sensitive equipment to deal with national emergencies like North Korea’s military provocations — immediately incited outrage in South Korea. In a survey this week, nearly 54% of respondents said they opposed the hasty move.

Yoon first said his new office would be at a government complex a few blocks from the Blue House, but after the election, he learned that his plan was infeasible because the busy area would create insurmountable security risks, as well as traffic jams and other inconveniences for citizens. He eventually settled on the Defense Ministry’s current headquarters in Yongsan, a district in central Seoul.

One of Yoon’s most vocal critics on the plan is the outgoing president, Moon Jae-in, whose office said the president-elect’s plan would leave South Korea badly prepared for North Korean provocations, like its test launch of the new Hwasong-17 missile on Thursday. Moon had also promised to move the presidential office out of the Blue House, but ditched the plan after his election.

Moon’s government has refused to allocate the 49.6 billion won ($41 million) that Yoon has requested for the move, citing the disruption it would cause for the remainder of his term. Yoon has vowed to press ahead with his plan, saying if the move is not completed by May 10, he would continue to work in the office of his transition team.

In the interim, Yoon’s team said he would deal with North Korean provocations from a mobile situation room — a minibus equipped with big screens and high-speed encrypted communication gear that South Korean presidents use when traveling outside Seoul.

The disorder of the transition has created an opportunity for North Korea, analysts said, and the timing of Thursday’s launch allowed the North to “greet the newly elected conservative South Korean president with a message about who is the big dog on the peninsula,” said Daniel R. Russel, a former United States diplomat who is now vice president of the Asia Society Policy Institute in New York.

During the campaign, Yoon vehemently criticized Moon’s policy of seeking dialogue with North Korea, even as its leader, Kim Jong Un, rapidly expanded the country’s nuclear and missile programs. Yoon has championed a stronger alliance with Washington and a tougher stance on the North. He has also proposed rejuvenating the joint U.S.-South Korean military exercises that were scaled down under Moon.

North Korea has said that “hostile” acts like joint military drills were part of the reason it has developed a “nuclear war deterrent” against its enemies.

According to photos released by the North’s state media, the Hwasong-17 launch Thursday showed at least one major technical advance: Its first-stage booster rocket had four nozzles, compared with two for the North’s earlier Hwasong-15 ICBM.

North Korea appeared to have clustered two Hwasong-15 booster engines to give more power to the Hwasong-17, which soared 3,852 miles into space before crashing down into waters west of Japan. If the North flattens the trajectory, it can send the missile 9,320 miles, a range great enough to cover the whole of the continental United States, missile experts said.

Yoon’s transition office called the launch a “grave provocation” and urged the U.N. Security Council to discuss how to punish North Korea for its aggression. 
&nbsp;

When North Korea on Thursday conducted a test of its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile to date, South Korea’s Defense Ministry was busy with another urgent task: making plans to move.

When North Korea on Thursday conducted a test of its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile to date, South Korea’s Defense Ministry was busy with another urgent task: making plans to move. Earlier this month, South Korea’s president-elect, Yoon Suk-yeol, announced plans to move the Defense Ministry to another building in Seoul so that his presidential office could move into the ministry’s current headquarters by May 10, the day of his inauguration. The ministry was caught off guard by Yoon’s decision, which came at a time when North Korea is rapidly escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula. North Korea has often used presidential transitions as an opportunity to make a show of force. This year, the confusion created by Yoon’s plan to relocate both the presidential office and the Defense Ministry could add to the South’s security concerns, analysts said. The current presidential office is situated in the Blue House, a secluded compound with graceful pine trees and manicured lawns, nestled between the capital’s ancient Gyeongbokgung Palace and Mount Bukaksan. During his election campaign, Yoon said he would make the Blue House a park and “return it to the people.” The Blue House has been the seat of presidential power since the birth of South Korea at the end of World War II. Its location has come to symbolize the secrecy and unbridled power of the president. Almost all South Korean presidents have been either imprisoned or embroiled in corruption scandals after leaving office. South Korea’s social media was abuzz with rumors that Yoon’s wife, Kim Kun-hee, had been told by shamans that the Blue House was cursed and should not be occupied by the president-elect. Yoon’s transition team dismissed those rumors as groundless. “I know there is concern that I am hurrying too much to move the presidential office,” Yoon said at a news conference Sunday. “But I thought that once I moved into the Blue House, it would become more difficult to get out of the place, a symbol of imperial power of the president.” Moving both the presidential office and the Defense Ministry — with their underground bunkers equipped with sensitive equipment to deal with national emergencies like North Korea’s military provocations — immediately incited outrage in South Korea. In a survey this week, nearly 54% of respondents said they opposed the hasty move. Yoon first said his new office would be at a government complex a few blocks from the Blue House, but after the election, he learned that his plan was infeasible because the busy area would create insurmountable security risks, as well as traffic jams and other inconveniences for citizens. He eventually settled on the Defense Ministry’s current headquarters in Yongsan, a district in central Seoul. One of Yoon’s most vocal critics on the plan is the outgoing president, Moon Jae-in, whose office said the president-elect’s plan would leave South Korea badly prepared for North Korean provocations, like its test launch of the new Hwasong-17 missile on Thursday. Moon had also promised to move the presidential office out of the Blue House, but ditched the plan after his election. Moon’s government has refused to allocate the 49.6 billion won ($41 million) that Yoon has requested for the move, citing the disruption it would cause for the remainder of his term. Yoon has vowed to press ahead with his plan, saying if the move is not completed by May 10, he would continue to work in the office of his transition team. In the interim, Yoon’s team said he would deal with North Korean provocations from a mobile situation room — a minibus equipped with big screens and high-speed encrypted communication gear that South Korean presidents use when traveling outside Seoul. The disorder of the transition has created an opportunity for North Korea, analysts said, and the timing of Thursday’s launch allowed the North to “greet the newly elected conservative South Korean president with a message about who is the big dog on the peninsula,” said Daniel R. Russel, a former United States diplomat who is now vice president of the Asia Society Policy Institute in New York. During the campaign, Yoon vehemently criticized Moon’s policy of seeking dialogue with North Korea, even as its leader, Kim Jong Un, rapidly expanded the country’s nuclear and missile programs. Yoon has championed a stronger alliance with Washington and a tougher stance on the North. He has also proposed rejuvenating the joint U.S.-South Korean military exercises that were scaled down under Moon. North Korea has said that “hostile” acts like joint military drills were part of the reason it has developed a “nuclear war deterrent” against its enemies. According to photos released by the North’s state media, the Hwasong-17 launch Thursday showed at least one major technical advance: Its first-stage booster rocket had four nozzles, compared with two for the North’s earlier Hwasong-15 ICBM. North Korea appeared to have clustered two Hwasong-15 booster engines to give more power to the Hwasong-17, which soared 3,852 miles into space before crashing down into waters west of Japan. If the North flattens the trajectory, it can send the missile 9,320 miles, a range great enough to cover the whole of the continental United States, missile experts said. Yoon’s transition office called the launch a “grave provocation” and urged the U.N. Security Council to discuss how to punish North Korea for its aggression.

Relocation of presidential office in Seoul heightens security concerns

It was nothing short of a Hollywood moment.

With shiny leather jacket and slick aviator shades, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un entered the arena where they were preparing to fire the giant Hwasong-17 missile —Pyongyang's first ICBM test since 2017.

Unlike the past where North Korean state media channel would scream at the top of their lungs to announce their nation’s “military might”, the test-firing of the long-range missile was immortalised in a wild clip that aired on Thursday.

The hermit kingdom tested their intercontinental ballistic missile, which Kim said was designed to demonstrate the might of its nuclear force and deter any US military moves.

State television broadcast a heavily produced video of the launch featuring flashy effects and edits.

In the clip, Kim, who is flanked by uniformed military officers, is shown in slow motion walking and pointing as hangar doors slowly open to reveal the massive missile.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
BREAKING: North Korea's state-run television shows edited footage of Kim Jong Un guiding the test-launch of what the country referred to as the Hwasong-17 ICBM. 
 
Latest story: <a href="https://t.co/belL7EdPUl">https://t.co/belL7EdPUl</a> 
(Video: KCTV) <a href="https://t.co/APifRhtJVr">pic.twitter.com/APifRhtJVr</a>
— NK NEWS (@nknewsorg) <a href="https://twitter.com/nknewsorg/status/1507242223343001600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2022</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>

As expected, the video shared by independent news website North Korea News on Twitter on Friday went viral.

Many meme creators gave the video a “Top Gun” spin, while some remixed with the South Korean K-pop hit "Gangnam Style."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Pyongyang style! 
 
(35 second mark is amazing) <a href="https://t.co/XzIwHAHwMw">pic.twitter.com/XzIwHAHwMw</a>
— p (@holzprueghel) <a href="https://twitter.com/holzprueghel/status/1507246865536151555?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2022</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>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
danger zone <a href="https://t.co/mmKkfDANkx">pic.twitter.com/mmKkfDANkx</a>
— alva der fabiolöse (@weddingkid_65) <a href="https://twitter.com/weddingkid_65/status/1507273996315901963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2022</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>

However, this is not the first time that Kim went viral.

Earlier, a photo of Kim riding a white horse up the snowy slopes of North Korea's most sacred mountain made headwinds in social media.

The giant Hwasong-17 was first unveiled in October 2020, which many analysts dubbed a "monster missile".

It had never previously been successfully test-fired, and the launch prompted immediate outrage from Pyongyang's neighbours and the United States.

(With inputs from agencies)

It was nothing short of a Hollywood moment. With shiny leather jacket and slick aviator shades, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un entered the arena where they were preparing to fire the giant Hwasong-17 missile —Pyongyang's first ICBM test since 2017.

It was nothing short of a Hollywood moment. With shiny leather jacket and slick aviator shades, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un entered the arena where they were preparing to fire the giant Hwasong-17 missile —Pyongyang's first ICBM test since 2017. Unlike the past where North Korean state media channel would scream at the top of their lungs to announce their nation’s “military might”, the test-firing of the long-range missile was immortalised in a wild clip that aired on Thursday. The hermit kingdom tested their intercontinental ballistic missile, which Kim said was designed to demonstrate the might of its nuclear force and deter any US military moves. State television broadcast a heavily produced video of the launch featuring flashy effects and edits. In the clip, Kim, who is flanked by uniformed military officers, is shown in slow motion walking and pointing as hangar doors slowly open to reveal the massive missile. BREAKING: North Korea's state-run television shows edited footage of Kim Jong Un guiding the test-launch of what the country referred to as the Hwasong-17 ICBM. Latest story: https://t.co/belL7EdPUl (Video: KCTV) pic.twitter.com/APifRhtJVr — NK NEWS (@nknewsorg) March 25, 2022 × As expected, the video shared by independent news website North Korea News on Twitter on Friday went viral. Many meme creators gave the video a “Top Gun” spin, while some remixed with the South Korean K-pop hit "Gangnam Style." Pyongyang style! (35 second mark is amazing) pic.twitter.com/XzIwHAHwMw — p (@holzprueghel) March 25, 2022 × danger zone pic.twitter.com/mmKkfDANkx — alva der fabiolöse (@weddingkid_65) March 25, 2022 × However, this is not the first time that Kim went viral. Earlier, a photo of Kim riding a white horse up the snowy slopes of North Korea's most sacred mountain made headwinds in social media. The giant Hwasong-17 was first unveiled in October 2020, which many analysts dubbed a "monster missile". It had never previously been successfully test-fired, and the launch prompted immediate outrage from Pyongyang's neighbours and the United States. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: North Korea goes Hollywood in new missile launch video, Twitterati give it a ‘Top Gun’ spin

North Korea tested another massive ballistic missile system. This was among the dozens of missiles North Korea has tested since January 2022. ICBM, Hwasong-17, first revealed in 2020, is about 25 metres long. It is North Korea’s longest weapon & a full range test was conducted on March 24. But why is North Korea testing so many missiles?

North Korea tests massive ballistic missile: Why has Kim Jong Un tested dozens missiles in 2022?

In Pics: What is new ICBM tested by North Korea giving sleepless nights to US

The United States imposed new sanctions Thursday on entities and people in Russia and North Korea after Pyongyang's latest ICBM missile test.

The targeted persons and organizations are accused of "transferring sensitive items to North Korea's missile program," according to a State Department statement.

"These measures are part of our ongoing efforts to impede the DPRK's ability to advance its missile program and they highlight the negative role Russia plays on the world stage as a proliferator to programs of concern," the statement said, using the official acronym for North Korea.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-tests-banned-intercontinental-missile-lands-in-japans-exclusive-economic-zone-465127">North Korea tests banned intercontinental missile that lands in Japan's exclusive economic zone</a>

The new sanctions were quickly derided by Moscow's ambassador in Washington Anatoly Antonov, who said: "serial sanctions will not achieve their goals."

Thursday's launch was the first time Pyongyang had fired the country's most powerful missiles at full range since 2017, and it appears to have travelled higher and further than any previous intercontinental ballistic missile tested by the nuclear-armed nation.

Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the test-firing of a "new type" of ICBM to boost his country's nuclear deterrent against the US "imperialists," North Korea's state media reported early Friday.

In response, the State Department said Washington has sanctioned the Russian entities called Ardis Group, PFK Profpodshipnik and Russian national Igor Aleksandrovich Michurin.

It also sanctioned North Korean citizen Ri Sung Chol and a North Korean entity called Second Academy of Natural Science Foreign Affairs Bureau.

The statement did not detail the specific allegations against these people and entities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-multiple-rocket-launcher-says-south-korean-military-463984">North Korea fires multiple rocket launcher, says South Korean military</a>

Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with South Korean Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong late on Thursday to reaffirm Washington's alliance with Seoul.

The two top diplomats reiterated that the launch violated multiple UN Security Council resolutions, and "demonstrates the threat the DPRK's unlawful weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs pose to the DPRK's neighbors and the broader international community," State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a readout of the call.&nbsp;

For its part, the Russian embassy accused the United States of seeking to punish officials in Moscow because they hold a view that "does not correspond to the views of Washington."

"It is obvious that the next 'package' of anti-Russian sanctions is aimed at destroying the economy and undermining the domestic political situation in our country," Antonov posted on the embassy's Facebook page.

Last week, the US Treasury announced sanctions against two Russian individuals and three entities over their support for North Korea's weapons program.

Watch |&nbsp;Tensions spike in the Korean peninsula after North Korea fires multiple rocket launchers

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tensions-spike-in-the-korean-peninsula-after-north-korea-fires-multiple-rocket-launcher-464045/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The United States imposed new sanctions Thursday on entities and people in Russia and North Korea after Pyongyang's latest ICBM missile test. The targeted persons and organizations are accused of "transferring sensitive items to North Korea's missile program," according to a State Department statement.

The United States imposed new sanctions Thursday on entities and people in Russia and North Korea after Pyongyang's latest ICBM missile test. The targeted persons and organizations are accused of "transferring sensitive items to North Korea's missile program," according to a State Department statement. "These measures are part of our ongoing efforts to impede the DPRK's ability to advance its missile program and they highlight the negative role Russia plays on the world stage as a proliferator to programs of concern," the statement said, using the official acronym for North Korea. Also read | North Korea tests banned intercontinental missile that lands in Japan's exclusive economic zone The new sanctions were quickly derided by Moscow's ambassador in Washington Anatoly Antonov, who said: "serial sanctions will not achieve their goals." Thursday's launch was the first time Pyongyang had fired the country's most powerful missiles at full range since 2017, and it appears to have travelled higher and further than any previous intercontinental ballistic missile tested by the nuclear-armed nation. Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the test-firing of a "new type" of ICBM to boost his country's nuclear deterrent against the US "imperialists," North Korea's state media reported early Friday. In response, the State Department said Washington has sanctioned the Russian entities called Ardis Group, PFK Profpodshipnik and Russian national Igor Aleksandrovich Michurin. It also sanctioned North Korean citizen Ri Sung Chol and a North Korean entity called Second Academy of Natural Science Foreign Affairs Bureau. The statement did not detail the specific allegations against these people and entities. Also read | North Korea fires multiple rocket launcher, says South Korean military Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with South Korean Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong late on Thursday to reaffirm Washington's alliance with Seoul. The two top diplomats reiterated that the launch violated multiple UN Security Council resolutions, and "demonstrates the threat the DPRK's unlawful weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs pose to the DPRK's neighbors and the broader international community," State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a readout of the call. For its part, the Russian embassy accused the United States of seeking to punish officials in Moscow because they hold a view that "does not correspond to the views of Washington." "It is obvious that the next 'package' of anti-Russian sanctions is aimed at destroying the economy and undermining the domestic political situation in our country," Antonov posted on the embassy's Facebook page. Last week, the US Treasury announced sanctions against two Russian individuals and three entities over their support for North Korea's weapons program. Watch | Tensions spike in the Korean peninsula after North Korea fires multiple rocket launchers

US announces new sanctions after North Korea's ICBM test

According to South Korean officials and several news reports, North Korea fired a banned intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on Thursday, its first test of the missile since 2017 and the latest in a series of escalating weapons tests by Pyongyang this year.&nbsp;

According to Japanese officials, the ICBM flew 1,100 kilometres (684 miles).

After more than an hour of flight, it crashed into Japanese waters.

On a conventional trajectory, an ICBM can travel thousands of kilometres and conceivably reach the United States.

In recent weeks, North Korea has conducted a flurry of missile launches.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hypersonics-to-cruise-missiles-north-koreas-long-range-ballistic-missile-technology-461354">Pictures: From hypersonics to cruise missiles: North Korea's long-range ballistic missile technology</a>

Some of those tests, which Pyongyang claimed were satellite launches, were actually ICBM system trials, according to the US and South Korea.

According to Japanese officials, the missile flew at a height of about 6,000 kilometres on Thursday.&nbsp;

Following talks with then-US President Donald Trump in 2018, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un imposed a moratorium on long-range ballistic missile and nuclear tests.

Kim, however, claimed in 2020 that he was no longer obliged by the vow.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Tensions spike in the Korean peninsula after North Korea fires multiple rocket launchers

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tensions-spike-in-the-korean-peninsula-after-north-korea-fires-multiple-rocket-launcher-464045/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

According to South Korean officials and several news reports, North Korea fired a banned intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on Thursday, its first test of the missile since 2017 and the latest in a series of escalating weapons tests by Pyongyang this year.

According to South Korean officials and several news reports, North Korea fired a banned intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on Thursday, its first test of the missile since 2017 and the latest in a series of escalating weapons tests by Pyongyang this year. According to Japanese officials, the ICBM flew 1,100 kilometres (684 miles). After more than an hour of flight, it crashed into Japanese waters. On a conventional trajectory, an ICBM can travel thousands of kilometres and conceivably reach the United States. In recent weeks, North Korea has conducted a flurry of missile launches. Pictures: From hypersonics to cruise missiles: North Korea's long-range ballistic missile technology Some of those tests, which Pyongyang claimed were satellite launches, were actually ICBM system trials, according to the US and South Korea. According to Japanese officials, the missile flew at a height of about 6,000 kilometres on Thursday. Following talks with then-US President Donald Trump in 2018, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un imposed a moratorium on long-range ballistic missile and nuclear tests. Kim, however, claimed in 2020 that he was no longer obliged by the vow. Watch | Tensions spike in the Korean peninsula after North Korea fires multiple rocket launchers (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea tests banned intercontinental missile that lands in Japan's exclusive economic zone

Tensions have spiked in the Korean peninsula after North Korea fired multiple rocket launchers in arms testing as it continues to expand its arsenal.

Tensions spike in the Korean peninsula after North Korea fires multiple rocket launchers

North Korea appeared to have fired a short-range multiple rocket launcher, South Korean military said on Sunday, amid heightened tensions in the region. The launch comes after a number of larger missile launches by the North in the recent past. <o:p></o:p>

"This morning there was firing in North Korea which is assumed to be multiple rocket launcher shots, and our military was monitoring the related situation and maintaining a readiness posture," South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/multiple-explosions-heard-at-pakistan-army-depot-in-sialkot-sources-463936">Multiple explosions heard at Pakistan Army Depot in Sialkot: Sources</a><o:p></o:p>

The North Korean military fired four shots around 7:20 am local time (22:20 GMT on Saturday) for around an hour towards the west coast from an unidentified location in South Pyongan Province, according to a report from Yonhap news agency.<o:p></o:p>

Although the launches have not attracted the same attention as the massive intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), North Korea has tested a variety of new types of multiple launch rocket system in the last few years and it has significantly boosted their massive artillery.<o:p></o:p>

The launch has once again stoked tensions of a possible aggression towards South Korea and National Security Council held an emergency vice-ministerial meeting over the launches.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-on-the-right-side-of-history-over-ukraine-war-wang-yi-463948" hreflang="en">China on the right side of history over Ukraine war: Wang Yi</a>

South Korea approved plans to pursue a $2.6-billion artillery interception system last year, similar to Israel’s “Iron Dome,” which can be used to protect against North’s long-range guns and rockets.<o:p></o:p>

From 2021, North Korea has conducted a huge number of missile launches. South Korea and the US have both warned that North Korea could resume the testing of ICBMs for the first time since 2017.

<o:p>Watch |&nbsp;</o:p>North Korea's latest missile tests alarm pentagon as the US, South Korea suspect ICBM tests<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-koreas-latest-missile-tests-alarm-pentagon-as-the-us-south-korea-suspect-icbm-tests-461153/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">(With inputs from agencies)</div>

North Korea appeared to have fired a short-range multiple rocket launcher, South Korean military said on Sunday, amid heightened tensions in the region. The launch comes after a number of larger missile launches by the North in the recent past.

North Korea appeared to have fired a short-range multiple rocket launcher, South Korean military said on Sunday, amid heightened tensions in the region. The launch comes after a number of larger missile launches by the North in the recent past. "This morning there was firing in North Korea which is assumed to be multiple rocket launcher shots, and our military was monitoring the related situation and maintaining a readiness posture," South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said. Also read | Multiple explosions heard at Pakistan Army Depot in Sialkot: Sources The North Korean military fired four shots around 7:20 am local time (22:20 GMT on Saturday) for around an hour towards the west coast from an unidentified location in South Pyongan Province, according to a report from Yonhap news agency. Although the launches have not attracted the same attention as the massive intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), North Korea has tested a variety of new types of multiple launch rocket system in the last few years and it has significantly boosted their massive artillery. The launch has once again stoked tensions of a possible aggression towards South Korea and National Security Council held an emergency vice-ministerial meeting over the launches. Also read | China on the right side of history over Ukraine war: Wang Yi South Korea approved plans to pursue a $2.6-billion artillery interception system last year, similar to Israel’s “Iron Dome,” which can be used to protect against North’s long-range guns and rockets. From 2021, North Korea has conducted a huge number of missile launches. South Korea and the US have both warned that North Korea could resume the testing of ICBMs for the first time since 2017. Watch | North Korea's latest missile tests alarm pentagon as the US, South Korea suspect ICBM tests (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea fires multiple rocket launcher, says South Korean military

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;fired an "unknown projectile" on Wednesday which appeared to fail immediately after launch, South&nbsp;Korea's military said, amid reports that the nuclear-armed&nbsp;North&nbsp;is seeking to test-fire its largest missile yet.

The United States and South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;have warned that&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;may be preparing to launch an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) at full range for the first time since 2017.

The projectile was fired from Sunan Airport outside the&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korean capital of Pyongyang, South&nbsp;Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said in a statement.

"It is presumed that it failed immediately after launch," the statement said. The projectile seemed to explode in mid-air shortly after liftoff, Yonhap news agency reported, citing unnamed sources.

The US&nbsp;military's Indo-Pacific Command called it a "ballistic missile launch." The command did not mention the reported failure, but condemned the launch and urged Pyongyang to refrain from further destabilising acts.

A source at Japan's Ministry of Defence also called the projectile a potential ballistic missile, Japanese public broadcaster NHK reported.

Debris fell in or near Pyongyang after the failed test, Seoul-based NK News reported, citing unnamed witnesses and a photograph of the test showing a red-tinted ball of smoke at the end of a zig-zagging rocket launch trail in the sky above the city.

"The report of a failure from Sunan is concerning because of the possibility of damage to heavily populated civilian areas," said Ankit Panda, a senior fellow at the U.S.-based Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

In 2017, an intermediate-range ballistic missile launched from another location failed shortly after liftoff and crashed into an industrial or agriculture complex in the city of Tokchon.

The Sunan airport has been the site of several recent launches, including on Feb. 27 and March 5.&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;said those tests were for developing components of a reconnaissance satellite and did not identify what rocket it used, but Seoul and Washington said they were tests of a new ICBM system.

SERIES OF NEW MISSILE TESTS

Reclusive&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has fired missiles at an unprecedented frequency this year, conducting its ninth weapons test on March 5, drawing condemnation from the United States, South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and Japan.

The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier led military exercises in the Yellow Sea, and air defence artillery at Osan air base in South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;intensified drills in response to the increased&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korean missile activity, U.S. forces in Asia said on Tuesday.

The new ICBM system, the Hwasong-17, was unveiled at a military parade in 2020 and reappeared at a defence exhibition in October 2021.

The Feb. 27 and March 5 launches did not demonstrate the missile's full range, and analysts said the&nbsp;North&nbsp;might have used only one stage of the missile or adjusted its fuel volume to fly at lower altitudes.

The Hwasong-17 would be&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea's largest ICBM yet, and the government appears to be restoring some tunnels at its shuttered nuclear test site, U.S. and South&nbsp;Korean officials said last week.

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has not tested an ICBM or nuclear bomb since 2017, but has said that it could resume such testing because denuclearisation talks with the United States are stalled.

REGIONAL RESPONSE

U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and China's top diplomat Yang Jiechi discussed&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;in Rome on Monday during talks that focused on Ukraine.

A senior U.S. official said the two discussed ensuring there would soon be follow-up talks to earlier discussions between U.S. Special Representative for&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;Sung Kim and his Chinese counterpart, Liu Xiaoming, on ways to press Pyongyang to drop its nuclear weapons programme.

The official said Washington had "serious concerns about the recent escalatory actions" by&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and Sullivan made clear to Yang the steps the United States believed to be necessary.

Last week, the United States and 10 other countries bemoaned the failure of the U.N. Security Council - where China has veto power - to condemn&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea's repeated missile launches, saying this eroded the credibility of the council and the global non-proliferation regime.

Washington imposed fresh&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea-related sanctions on Friday, targeting Russian individuals and companies after the two recent launches.

Past US&nbsp;punitive steps and international sanctions at the United Nations have failed to arrest&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea's weapons development.

Russia and China, which backed U.N. sanctions after&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea's last ICBM and nuclear tests in 2017, have since argued that sanctions should be eased to encourage dialogue.

North Korea fired an "unknown projectile" on Wednesday which appeared to fail immediately after launch, South Korea's military said, amid reports that the nuclear-armed North is seeking to test-fire its largest missile yet.

North Korea fired an "unknown projectile" on Wednesday which appeared to fail immediately after launch, South Korea's military said, amid reports that the nuclear-armed North is seeking to test-fire its largest missile yet. The United States and South Korea have warned that North Korea may be preparing to launch an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) at full range for the first time since 2017. The projectile was fired from Sunan Airport outside the North Korean capital of Pyongyang, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said in a statement. "It is presumed that it failed immediately after launch," the statement said. The projectile seemed to explode in mid-air shortly after liftoff, Yonhap news agency reported, citing unnamed sources. The US military's Indo-Pacific Command called it a "ballistic missile launch." The command did not mention the reported failure, but condemned the launch and urged Pyongyang to refrain from further destabilising acts. A source at Japan's Ministry of Defence also called the projectile a potential ballistic missile, Japanese public broadcaster NHK reported. Debris fell in or near Pyongyang after the failed test, Seoul-based NK News reported, citing unnamed witnesses and a photograph of the test showing a red-tinted ball of smoke at the end of a zig-zagging rocket launch trail in the sky above the city. "The report of a failure from Sunan is concerning because of the possibility of damage to heavily populated civilian areas," said Ankit Panda, a senior fellow at the U.S.-based Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. In 2017, an intermediate-range ballistic missile launched from another location failed shortly after liftoff and crashed into an industrial or agriculture complex in the city of Tokchon. The Sunan airport has been the site of several recent launches, including on Feb. 27 and March 5. North Korea said those tests were for developing components of a reconnaissance satellite and did not identify what rocket it used, but Seoul and Washington said they were tests of a new ICBM system. SERIES OF NEW MISSILE TESTS Reclusive North Korea has fired missiles at an unprecedented frequency this year, conducting its ninth weapons test on March 5, drawing condemnation from the United States, South Korea and Japan. The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier led military exercises in the Yellow Sea, and air defence artillery at Osan air base in South Korea intensified drills in response to the increased North Korean missile activity, U.S. forces in Asia said on Tuesday. The new ICBM system, the Hwasong-17, was unveiled at a military parade in 2020 and reappeared at a defence exhibition in October 2021. The Feb. 27 and March 5 launches did not demonstrate the missile's full range, and analysts said the North might have used only one stage of the missile or adjusted its fuel volume to fly at lower altitudes. The Hwasong-17 would be North Korea's largest ICBM yet, and the government appears to be restoring some tunnels at its shuttered nuclear test site, U.S. and South Korean officials said last week. North Korea has not tested an ICBM or nuclear bomb since 2017, but has said that it could resume such testing because denuclearisation talks with the United States are stalled. REGIONAL RESPONSE U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and China's top diplomat Yang Jiechi discussed North Korea in Rome on Monday during talks that focused on Ukraine. A senior U.S. official said the two discussed ensuring there would soon be follow-up talks to earlier discussions between U.S. Special Representative for North Korea Sung Kim and his Chinese counterpart, Liu Xiaoming, on ways to press Pyongyang to drop its nuclear weapons programme. The official said Washington had "serious concerns about the recent escalatory actions" by North Korea and Sullivan made clear to Yang the steps the United States believed to be necessary. Last week, the United States and 10 other countries bemoaned the failure of the U.N. Security Council - where China has veto power - to condemn North Korea's repeated missile launches, saying this eroded the credibility of the council and the global non-proliferation regime. Washington imposed fresh North Korea-related sanctions on Friday, targeting Russian individuals and companies after the two recent launches. Past US punitive steps and international sanctions at the United Nations have failed to arrest North Korea's weapons development. Russia and China, which backed U.N. sanctions after North Korea's last ICBM and nuclear tests in 2017, have since argued that sanctions should be eased to encourage dialogue.

Suspected North Korea missile fails after launch over Pyongyang

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