18 Dec 2022 | 04:00 AM UTC
North Korea: Pyongyang launches ballistic missile toward the Sea of Japan Dec. 18
North Korea launches ballistic missile toward the Sea of Japan Dec. 18. No reports of damage or injuries.
Event
North Korea reportedly fired a ballistic missile toward the East Sea (Sea of Japan) the morning of Dec. 18. The missile flew for 500 km (311 miles) and reached an altitude of 550 km (342 miles). Japanese officials said the missile fell outside its Exclusive Economic Zone. The incident did not result in damage or casualties.
Context
The latest test occurs days after North Korea tested a high-thrust solid fuel engine which it claims would allow for quicker and more mobile launch of ballistic missiles. Additional missile launches remain possible in the coming weeks.
Despite attempts at jumpstarting diplomacy, the geopolitical dynamics on the Korean Peninsula remain largely unaltered, as North Korea has previously stated that it will only give up its nuclear weapons in exchange for concrete moves to reduce perceived US threats against it. North Korean leaders have previously warned of stronger actions in response to the latest US sanctions. However, both sides will likely avoid any actions that could escalate into a full-scale conflict.
