N. Korea fires cruise missiles after reporting destroyer launch failure

North Korea fired a series of cruise missiles earlier this morning that some believe was an attempt to save face following an accident during a military event on Wednesday.

Our correspondent Kim Jung-sil explains.

South Korea's military confirmed the launch of several unidentified cruise missiles from North Korea on Thursday.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff said the missiles were detected at around 9 AM from the Sondok area in Hamgyongnam-do Province, on North Korea's east coast.

The missile launches came a day after North Korea failed to launch a new 5,000-ton destroyer at the Chongjin shipyard.

State media reported that Kim Jong-un was present during the incident, calling it "unforgivable" and a blow to the regime's dignity.

According to the Rodong Sinmun, the rear sled carrying the destroyer detached prematurely, causing the ship to tilt and preventing the front from releasing, disrupting the launch balance.

While North Korea did not specify the extent of the damage, the South Korean military said this:

"Given the size and scale, it is expected to be similar to the Choe Hyon vessel, and the ship is currently lying on its side in the sea."

Some analysts believe the missile tests could be a response to the negative fallout from the failed naval launch.

However, others argue that the launches were likely part of North Korea's routine military exercises, as South Korea had already been tracking signs of missile activity.

"While the missile launch may help counter the negative image from the ship failure, it could be part of a broader strategy, focused on military training, international negotiations, and military cooperation with Russia."

Analysts believe North Korea's ongoing military demonstrations, including the missile tests and destroyer construction, may be part of the regime's broader strategy to showcase its military power.

Kim Jung-sil, Arirang News.