The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) has successfully conducted a significant test of its latest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Hwasongpho-19, demonstrating a notable advancement in its strategic deterrent capabilities. The official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Friday that the missile test took place on Thursday under the guidance of Kim Jong Un, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the DPRK.
According to the KCNA report, the Hwasongpho-19 missile traveled a distance of 1,001.2 kilometers over a flight duration of 5,156 seconds before landing in a designated area in open waters off the country's east coast. The test was conducted in a manner that did not impact the security of neighboring nations.
The successful launch marks a significant update to the DPRK's strategic missile capabilities, showcasing the modernity and reliability of its powerful strategic deterrent. The KCNA stated that the Hwasongpho-19 will serve as "the primary core means" in defending the nation against external threats.
Kim Jong Un referred to the test-fire as "an appropriate military action" in response to the escalating security situation on the Korean Peninsula. He emphasized that the test is part of "an indispensable process" in the continual development of the DPRK's strategic attack capabilities. Citing the "security situation and ever-aggravating prospective threats and challenges" faced by the country, the DPRK leader underscored the necessity of enhancing modern strategic attack capabilities and perfecting the nuclear force's response posture.
He reaffirmed that "the DPRK would never change its line of bolstering up its nuclear forces," signaling a steadfast commitment to strengthening the nation's defense capabilities amid rising tensions in the region.
