Seoul Condemns Pyongyang's Recent Missile Launch
South Korea denounced North Korea's latest suspected ballistic missile launch and urged Pyongyang to refrain from actions that escalate tensions, Yonhap News reported.
South Korean Defense Ministry's Response
The Ministry issued a strong condemnation of the missile launch and expressed deep regret over North Korea's criticism of the recent South Korea-US joint military exercises held from November 3 to 7 and Tuesday's defense chiefs meeting. It called on Pyongyang to “immediately halt” all actions that raise tensions between the two nations.
US Forces Korea Statement
USFK confirmed awareness of North Korea's missile launch and reiterated its commitment to defend its allies. They stated:
“We are consulting closely with the Republic of Korea (South Korea). Our focus is on maintaining the readiness required to defend the U.S. homeland and our allies in the region.”
Recent Diplomatic and Military Engagements
- On Monday, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited the Korean Demilitarized Zone alongside South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back during his first trip to South Korea.
- On Tuesday, both countries held their annual security consultative meeting to strengthen cooperation.
North Korea fired the ballistic missile toward the sea off its east coast on Friday, heightening regional security concerns.
Author's summary: Seoul and Washington strongly condemn North Korea's recent missile launch, emphasizing readiness and urging Pyongyang to stop actions escalating regional tensions.