North Korea tests new air defense missiles under Kim Jong Un’s watch
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (Photo: Getty Images)
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally oversaw tests of new air defense missiles aimed at strengthening the country’s military capabilities, according to the state-run North Korean news agency KCNA.
According to the agency, on Saturday, August 23, Kim Jong Un personally observed the testing of two new types of surface-to-air missiles. The tests were also attended by high-ranking military officials who evaluated the combat capabilities of the new air defense systems.
The new missile tests were intended to demonstrate North Korea’s commitment to strengthening its defensive capabilities and to send a signal to the US and South Korea about its readiness to protect its airspace.
Tensions have risen amid the annual joint military exercises between South Korea and the US, which are currently underway. North Korea claims these drills are of a hostile nature.
Moreover, Pyongyang accused Seoul of a dangerous provocation following a border incident on August 19, when South Korean soldiers fired warning shots toward North Korean forces.
At the same time, North Korea is ignoring proposals from South Korea’s new president, Yoon Suk-yeol, to improve inter-Korean relations. Instead, the North Korean regime has reaffirmed its intention to expand its nuclear arsenal and stated that Seoul plays no role in regional diplomacy.
What is known about the conflict between the countries
The conflict between South Korea and North Korea has been ongoing since the mid-20th century and has its roots in events following World War II.
In 1945, Korea, which had been under Japanese occupation, was divided along the 38th parallel: a communist regime under Soviet control was established in the north, while a pro-American government formed in the south.
Different forms of governance eventually led to the Korean War (1950–1953), which ended with an armistice, but not a peace treaty. Since then, the countries have officially remained in a state of war.
Although there have been periodic attempts to establish dialogue, no significant rapprochement has occurred. The main obstacles remain North Korea’s nuclear program, the joint military exercises of South Korea and the US, and deep ideological differences.
In June 2024, North Korea sent balloons carrying trash to South Korea.
In April 2025, North Korean forces crossed the South Korean border, prompting warning fire.
