On June 25, marking the 76th anniversary of the Korean War, North Korea test-fired weapons aimed at South Korea, including tactical ballistic missiles and upgraded 240mm multiple rocket launchers. This raised concerns about potential gaps in South Korean military surveillance. However, on Monday, the Ministry of National Defense clarified that they had detected and tracked these launches in real-time, working closely with U.S. forces.
During a regular press briefing at the Ministry of National Defense headquarters in Seoul’s Yongsan district, Deputy Spokesperson Lee Kyung-ho stated that from 7:27 a.m. to 8:20 a.m. (Korean time) on June 25, U.S. and South Korean forces jointly detected and tracked multiple projectiles launched by North Korea in real-time. It maintained close coordination to prepare for any contingencies.
Lee added that these projectiles are tactical weapon systems operated by North Korea. It will conduct a final assessment based on the comprehensive results of the joint analysis with the U.S. He also urged that the information sharing and coordination between the U.S. and South Korea remain robust. It asks that you refrain from politically interpreting or undermining the dedication of U.S. and South Korean troops who are committed to protecting the Republic of Korea and ensuring public safety.
Despite these statements, the Ministry of Defense did not disclose specific details about the projectiles launched by North Korea during the briefing.
Previously, North Korea’s state-run Rodong Sinmun newspaper reported on June 26 that General Secretary Kim Jong Un had observed test launches of tactical ballistic missiles equipped with special mission warheads, upgraded 240mm multiple rocket launchers, and extended-range self-propelled artillery shells on June 25. It’s believed that North Korea conducted over ten launches that day.
Typically, South Korean military authorities promptly inform the media when they detect North Korean ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads, as these violate the United Nations (UN) Security Council resolutions. However, in this instance, no announcements were made until after North Korea’s own report, sparking speculation about potential surveillance gaps or issues in U.S.-South Korea cooperation.
The military is also considering the possibility that North Korea’s announcement of ballistic missile launches could be a deceptive tactic, not reflecting actual events. Another theory suggests that the short range of the ballistic missiles may have led to confusion with other weapon systems, such as multiple rocket launchers, launched simultaneously.