North Korea has once again heightened global tensions with the test-firing of multiple long-range strategic cruise missiles over the Yellow Sea, overseen by leader Kim Jong Un. The December 28, 2025 launch was framed as a demonstration of “combat readiness” and validation of the country’s nuclear deterrent capabilities. Coming shortly after the unveiling of a new nuclear submarine, this military action is a clear response to heightened US-South Korea military cooperation and perceived violations of Pyongyang’s sovereignty.
Story Highlights
- North Korea launches long-range cruise missiles, overseen by Kim Jong Un.
- Tests conducted amid heightened US-South Korea military cooperation.
- Kim Jong Un vows to continue nuclear development, ignoring diplomatic overtures.
North Korea’s Missile Test Escalates Regional Tensions
On December 28, 2025, North Korea test-fired multiple long-range strategic cruise missiles over the Yellow Sea. The launch, overseen by Kim Jong Un, was intended to demonstrate “combat readiness” and validate the country’s nuclear deterrent capabilities. These low-altitude, long-range missiles, capable of striking targets across the Korean Peninsula and US bases in Japan, are a clear signal of North Korea’s military ambitions.
The test occurred just days after North Korea unveiled a new 8,700-tonne nuclear submarine, escalating tensions with South Korea and the United States. These developments come in response to perceived provocations, such as South Korea’s nuclear-powered submarine plans and recent US naval activities in the region. Pyongyang views these actions as violations of its sovereignty, prompting its military demonstrations.
Kim Jong Un’s Strategy and Global Reactions
Kim Jong Un’s oversight of the missile test underscores his commitment to expanding North Korea’s nuclear capabilities. Despite President Trump’s previous overtures for dialogue, Kim has remained focused on projecting strength and deterring perceived threats. South Korea and the United States have condemned these actions as destabilizing, with South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff detecting and monitoring the launches closely.
International reactions have been swift, with South Korea warning of potential further tests and increased vigilance in the region. The test, deemed successful by North Korean state media, highlights the ongoing power dynamics between Pyongyang and its adversaries. Kim’s pursuit of a formidable nuclear force is seen as part of a broader strategy to influence upcoming political events and maintain regime cohesion.
North Korea announced that it test-fired two long-range strategic cruise missiles
Implications for the Region and Beyond
The missile test has significant implications for the Korean Peninsula and beyond. Short-term, it heightens tensions and prompts heightened military readiness among allies. Long-term, it accelerates North Korea’s nuclear delivery capabilities, posing a potential threat to peace and stability in the region. The test also serves as a propaganda tool for the regime, reinforcing its narrative of self-defense and sovereignty.
Amid these developments, the international community must navigate the delicate balance between deterrence and diplomacy. North Korea’s actions challenge existing security frameworks and demand a coordinated response to prevent further escalation. The situation underscores the complexity of regional security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific and the urgent need for strategic engagement with North Korea.
Watch the report: North Korea Cruise Missiles LIVE: Kim Jong Un Oversees Strategic long-range cruise missile drill
Sources:
North Korea Tests Cruise Missiles in Show of ‘Combat Readiness’
North Korea Tests Long-Range Cruise Missiles in Latest Nuclear Deterrence Display
N. Korea Test Launches Long-Range Strategic Cruise Missiles
North Korea’s Kim oversees test launch of long-range cruise missiles | Kim Jong Un News | Al Jazeera