Pyongyang claims to have tested a ‘hypersonic ballistic missile’

On Monday, January 6, North Korea announced the successful launch of a “new hypersonic ballistic missile.” The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) wrote that Kim Jong-un personally observed the tests.

Pyongyang maintains that the missile was designed for self-defense, not offensive purposes. According to Kim Jong-un, “the missile can effectively overcome any air defense system in the world.”

South Korea’s military said North Korea launched “something” believed to be a medium-range ballistic missile toward the sea east of the country. The rocket flew 1,100 kilometers before falling into the sea.

The launch of a ballistic missile carried out by the DPRK was reported on the morning of January 6 by the Japanese Coast Guard.

The previous missile launch by the DPRK army was carried out on November 5, 2024.