North Korea conducted a "crucial" test with its new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) named Hwasongpho-19, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). During the test, the missile traveled 1,001.2 kilometers in 5,156 seconds before falling into a pre-established area in waters near the eastern coast of the country. The KCNA assured that the test posed no threat to the security of neighboring countries.
The test allowed for an update on North Korea's strategic missile capability record, demonstrating the modernity and credibility of its strategic deterrence. According to the official agency, this new system of strategic weapons is positioned as the country's main means of defense. Kim Jong Un, the North Korean leader, was present at the event and described the test as a "suitable military action" to demonstrate the country’s firmness and reaction capability in response to the increasing tension on the Korean Peninsula.
Kim Jong Un emphasized the importance of continuing to strengthen strategic attack capabilities and perfecting North Korea's nuclear response posture. In his speech, he reaffirmed that the country will never renounce reinforcing its nuclear arsenal in response to increasingly serious threats and challenges in the future.
