N. Korea fires SRBMs, signaling military strength amid rising tensions before U.S. inauguration

North Korea test-fired a series of short-range ballistic missiles earlier on this Tuesday morning posing its second act of provocation for the new year in just over a week as the Trump administration is poised to return to the White House next Monday.

Our correspondent Kim Jung-sil reports.

At around 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, North Korea launched several short-range ballistic missiles from the Ganggye area in Jagang-do Province.

The missiles flew approximately 250 kilometers before landing in the East Sea,

a frequent target in North Korean missile tests.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff announced that South Korea and U.S. intelligence detected North Korea's launch preparations early and tracked the missiles in real time.

"Our military has increased its surveillance and readiness to prepare for any additional launches while closely sharing related information with the U.S. and Japan."

Tuesday's SRBM launches mark North Korea's second missile test this year.

On January 6th, North Korea fired an intermediate-class hypersonic solid-fuel ballistic missile from the Pyongyang area.Some analysts tie the launches to the upcoming U.S. presidential transition, while others point to broader strategic motives.

Yang Moo-jin, President of the University of North Korean Studies, explains North Korea's possible intentions.

"First, North Korea aims to speed up the completion of its five-year defense development plan. Second, it's testing new short-range missiles. Third, it's showing confidence in its ability to launch various types of missiles anytime and anywhere. Lastly, it's a display of military dominance over Seoul and the greater capital region."

In response, Acting President Choi Sang-mok condemned Tuesday's launch as a clear violation

of UN Security Council resolutions, vowing a firm response in coordination with the U.S.

Kim Jung-sil, Arirang News.