Amidst the increasing tensions in Northeast Asia and the complexity of global politics, North Korea recently tested a hypersonic intermediate ballistic missile (IRBM). This test is seen as a strategic shift by Kim Jong-un, as it intensifies military provocations and diplomatic maneuvers.
On the 15th, N. Korea claimed to have successfully tested an IRBM with a new type of solid fuel propulsion system. If North Korea’s claims are true, a hypersonic missile capable of maneuvering at speeds exceeding by five times than the speed of sound could have significant implications for security in Northeast Asia.
N. Korea has referred to the relationship between North and South Korea as one of the most hostile in the world. They have warned that even a small spark could lead to a massive physical collision.
This message is part of a series of messages suggesting that the ‘major upheaval’ mentioned by N. Korean leader Kim Jong-un is not just a bluff. The country is escalating its military provocations and cutting off relations with S. Korea.
Considering the turbulent global situation, with the U.S. focused on conflicts in Ukraine and Palestine, tensions escalating in the Taiwan Strait following the anti-China faction’s victory in Taiwan’s presidential election, and widespread disruptions in global supply chains due to turmoil in the Middle East, Kim Jong-un appears to be increasing his strategic maneuvers in search of new opportunities.
In particular, he seems to be preparing for the possibility of Donald Trump’s victory in the upcoming US presidential election. His strategy involves severing ties with S. Korea and aiming for direct negotiations with the United States.
N. Korea’s recent provocation took place just after the Taiwanese presidential election on Jan. 13. The IRBM’s range is estimated to be between 3,000 and 5,500 kilometers, which means that locations like Okinawa, Japan (about 1,400 km away from Pyongyang) and Guam (about 3,500 km away) are now within striking distance. It is currently difficult to intercept these missiles using existing defense systems, and they could potentially pose a threat to U.S. aircraft carrier groups.
Given the existing tensions in the Taiwan Strait, this missile test could be a cause of concern for the United States. N. Korea could also use this to gain additional support from China. North Korea’s The Korean Central News Agency stated that the missile test was carried out completely irrelevant to the regional situation, which rather indicates that the country kept in mind the regional situation from the beginning.
