Kim Jong Un Oversees Missile Tests from New Destroyer

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw test launches of upgraded short-range ballistic missiles from the new destroyer Choe Hyon on Sunday morning. The tests involved five launches of improved Hwasong-11LA ground-to-ground tactical ballistic missiles designed to evaluate power and performance of new warheads, including cluster and fragmentation types.

The cruise missiles flew for approximately 7,869 to 7,920 seconds, while the anti-ship missiles flew about 1,960 to 1,973 seconds. According to state media, all missiles struck their targets with 'ultra-precision accuracy.' Kim reviewed plans for two additional destroyers under construction and emphasized strengthening North Korea's nuclear war deterrent.

The launches occurred from the eastern Sinpo area. South Korea’s military reported that the missiles flew about 140 km (90 miles) toward an island target zone, striking an area of roughly 12.5 to 13 hectares (31 to 32 acres). Kim expressed satisfaction with the test results and urged defense scientists to continue advancing technologies needed for military combat readiness.

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed the launches and has bolstered its surveillance posture, closely exchanging information with the U.S. and Japan. South Korea’s presidential Blue House urged Pyongyang to stop such 'provocations,' stating they violated U.N. Security Council resolutions.

Japan's Defense Ministry detected the launches, stating the weapons landed in waters off North Korea's east coast and expressing strong protest over violations of U.N. Security Council resolutions. Meanwhile, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Pyongyang on April 12–13, his first trip in six years. The visit underscored the enduring 'China-North Korea friendship rooted in socialism,' with both sides reaffirming their ideological alignment and mutual support.