North Korea Conducts First Ballistic Missile Test of 2026

North Korea fired several ballistic missiles on Sunday, marking its first missile test of 2026, according to South Korean and Japanese defense officials. The launches were detected just hours before South Korean President Lee Jae-myung departed for diplomatic talks in China.

South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said multiple projectiles, believed to be ballistic missiles, were launched from near Pyongyang and traveled approximately 750 kilometers before landing in the sea. Japan’s defense ministry also confirmed detecting a possible ballistic missile that fell outside its exclusive economic zone.

The test comes amid heightened regional tension following recent U.S. military actions abroad and renewed diplomatic activity in East Asia. Analysts note that Pyongyang often times weapons tests to coincide with major political events or international summits.

It was North Korea’s first ballistic missile launch since late 2025, when it tested weapons systems after U.S. President Donald Trump approved the deployment of a nuclear-powered submarine to the region. Seoul said it remains on high alert, strengthening surveillance and coordination with allies.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has long argued that the country’s missile and nuclear programs serve as deterrents against what Pyongyang describes as hostile foreign policies. The United States has repeatedly stated it has no plans for regime change, while urging North Korea to return to dialogue.

The missile test also precedes an upcoming ruling party congress in Pyongyang, where defense policy, military modernization, and economic planning are expected to be key agenda items.