SEOUL: In a recent interview with Yonhap news agency, South Korean Defence Minister Shin Won Sik expressed concerns over North Korea’s potential missile tests, indicating the possibility of a solid-fuel intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) launch in January.
The minister highlighted ongoing preparations for the test launch, with rocket engine tests conducted in November.
“There is a possibility that this will happen at the beginning of the year. It cannot be ruled out that this could happen as early as January,” Minister Shin cautioned. The missiles under development are believed to demonstrate North Korea’s capacity to target American bases in Guam and Japan, according to Seoul’s assessments.
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Moreover, Shin Won Sik raised the specter of North Korea launching an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) at a normal angle within a year. This move aims to test re-entry technologies and the accuracy of weapons. In 2023, Pyongyang launched five ICBMs with a mounted flight path, covering approximately 1,000 km. However, experts suggest that launched at a normal angle, these missiles can potentially overcome 12,000 – 15,000 km, posing a direct threat to the USA.
“There is a possibility of launching at a practical range and a normal angle this year,” warned Minister Shin, adding to the growing concerns about North Korea’s missile capabilities and intentions. The international community closely monitors the situation as tensions in the region escalate with the potential for provocative missile tests on the horizon.
