Kim Jong Un Unveils New Hypersonic Missile as a Deterrent to Pacific Rivals

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un announced the successful test of a new hypersonic missile aimed at countering potential threats in the Pacific region, state media reported on Tuesday. The announcement coincided with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to South Korea and occurred just two weeks before U.S. president-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration.

“The hypersonic missile system is designed to reliably neutralize any adversaries in the Pacific who threaten our national security,” Kim stated in remarks shared by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

The missile, which reportedly incorporates a “new carbon-fiber compound” in its engine, represents a significant technological advancement. Experts warn this could extend North Korea’s reach, rivaling missile capabilities currently exclusive to the United States, Russia, and China.

Images released by KCNA, dated January 6, 2025, depict the missile launch from a remote site surrounded by water and winter-stripped trees. The missile traveled 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) at 12 times the speed of sound, landing in the ocean, according to Kim. However, South Korea’s military estimated the flight distance at 1,100 kilometers.

Regional and Global Implications
The hypersonic missile, equipped with advanced flight and guidance systems, represents a step forward in North Korea’s defensive capabilities. Kim emphasized the missile’s potential to penetrate even robust defensive systems and its importance in securing the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK).

Analysts believe this launch sends a strategic message to the incoming U.S. administration, asserting Pyongyang’s strengthened military position. Hong Min, a senior analyst at the Korea Institute for National Unification, described it as an effort to ensure North Korea’s technological advances are recognized in future negotiations.

Criticism and Concerns
The test has raised alarms among neighboring nations and global powers. Secretary of State Blinken, addressing the issue during his visit to Tokyo, condemned the launch, accusing Pyongyang of benefiting from Russian military aid. U.S. and South Korean intelligence agencies also suspect North Korea sent troops to support Russia in Ukraine, suffering significant casualties in the process.

South Korea’s Acting President Choi Sang-mok called the missile test a “serious threat” to regional stability during a cabinet meeting. A spokesperson for South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff questioned the accuracy of North Korea’s claims, noting a history of exaggeration in such announcements.

Kim Observes with Daughter
KCNA also released images of Kim observing the launch alongside his teenage daughter, Ju Ae, marking a rare public appearance by the leader’s family.

As North Korea expands its missile program, regional tensions continue to rise. Analysts caution that advancements in hypersonic technology could allow Pyongyang to target U.S. forces in Japan or even more distant locations.

(AFP)