North Korea’s Missile Tests Amidst Diplomatic Tensions
This image, released by North Korea, claims to show a sea-to-surface cruise missile test conducted at an undisclosed location on October 28, 2025. Independent verification of the event was not possible as journalists were not allowed access. The image bears the watermark “KCNA,” representing the Korean Central News Agency.
Successful Missile Launches Reported
In a recent announcement, North Korea declared the successful test-firing of sea-to-surface cruise missiles, showcasing its advancing military prowess. This development coincides with U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to South Korea.
According to the Korean Central News Agency, the missiles traveled for over two hours, hitting targets in the western seas with precision. These weapons are expected to enhance the operational reach of North Korea’s nuclear-armed forces.
Regional Reactions and Analysis
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed the detection of the missile launch preparations, noting that the missiles were fired from the northwest at approximately 3 p.m. on Tuesday. Both South Korea and the United States are analyzing the situation, maintaining a defense posture ready to respond decisively to any provocations.
The missile tests were reported just before a planned summit between President Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung in Gyeongju, where the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings are being held.
Trump’s Response and Diplomatic Context
During his flight from Japan to South Korea, President Trump downplayed the missile launches, referencing North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s long history of missile tests. Trump expressed a continued interest in meeting Kim, despite stalled diplomacy over sanctions disagreements.
Senior military official Pak Jong Chon attended the tests and reviewed training on North Korea’s new destroyers, which Kim Jong Un has highlighted as crucial to naval strength.
Recent Military Developments
These missile tests follow recent short-range ballistic missile launches, which North Korea claims are part of a new hypersonic system aimed at bolstering its nuclear deterrent.
While in South Korea, Trump is also scheduled to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping, though a meeting with Kim Jong Un is not anticipated.
North Korea’s Shifting Alliances
Since the collapse of nuclear talks with Trump in 2019, North Korea has avoided dialogue with both Washington and Seoul. Kim Jong Un’s current foreign policy focus is on Russia, providing military support to President Vladimir Putin’s efforts in Ukraine and aligning against Western powers.
Kim has stated he will not engage in talks with the U.S. unless it abandons its denuclearization demands, despite Trump’s hopes for renewed diplomatic efforts.
