North Korea test-fired sea-to-surface cruise missiles west of the Korean peninsula on Tuesday, state media KCNA reported, just as U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in South Korea for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum. The timing adds tension to a high-profile week of diplomatic activity, including Trump’s planned talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
KCNA said the missiles flew for about 7,800 seconds (over two hours) along a preset path before striking their target. Kim Jong Un was not present at the launch.
Why It Matters:
The launch underscores Pyongyang’s continued weapons development amid stalled denuclearisation talks and growing regional instability. By showcasing cruise missile capabilities harder to detect and intercept than ballistic ones North Korea signals defiance as global attention turns to APEC diplomacy and U.S.–China discussions.
For Washington, it complicates Trump’s regional agenda and raises pressure on Seoul and Tokyo to strengthen missile defence coordination.
North Korea: KCNA quoted senior military official Pak Jong Chon as saying “important successes” were being made in developing nuclear forces under the ruling party’s plan.
United States: Trump, when asked about the launch aboard Air Force One, said, “At some point we’ll be involved with North Korea… we’ll meet with them not too far in the future.”
South Korea: The Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed detecting the launch and said detailed analysis was underway.
China & Region: Xi’s upcoming talks with Trump could feature renewed focus on North Korea’s weapons program and regional stability.
What’s Next:
Trump’s Gyeongju meetings and expected talks with Xi later this week could determine whether diplomatic re-engagement with Pyongyang is revived. Analysts warn further provocations from North Korea could shadow APEC discussions and test regional leaders’ unity on security priorities.
With information from Reuters.
