North Korea: Pyongyang reportedly launches suspected ballistic missile toward Sea of Japan (East Sea) early Feb. 20

Event

North Korea reportedly launched a suspected ballistic missile toward the Sea of Japan (East Sea) early Feb. 20. No damage or casualties were immediately reported in connection with the projectile launch.

Context

The Feb. 20 launch comes after the US staged bilateral air exercises with South Korea and Japan Feb. 19. The drills were notably preceded by Pyongyang launching a long-range missile into the Sea of Japan (East Sea) Feb. 18. 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 US sanctions. However, both sides will likely avoid any actions that could escalate into a full-scale conflict.