North Korea conducted a cruise missile test on Tuesday, according to a report from the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the country’s state media outlet. The launch was described as a successful demonstration of North Korea’s nuclear counterattack capabilities.
KCNA stated that the strategic cruise missile flew over the Yellow Sea and accurately struck its designated target. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed detecting the launch from North Korea’s western coast, tracking multiple missiles that flew approximately 1,500 kilometers (about 930 miles) before landing in the sea.
The test took place just one day before U.S. President Donald Trump’s scheduled arrival in South Korea, heightening regional tensions and drawing renewed attention to Pyongyang’s advancing missile capabilities. Observers noted that the missile tested appears to be an upgraded version of the Pulhwasal-3-31 strategic cruise missile, first unveiled in 2021.
This latest test follows North Korea’s October 22 launch of a Hwasong-19 solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), which coincided with joint U.S.-South Korea military exercises. Analysts say the timing of these launches reflects Pyongyang’s ongoing effort to signal deterrence and showcase its growing military strength.
President Trump has publicly expressed interest in meeting North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during his visit to the Korean Peninsula, but North Korea has shown little inclination toward renewed dialogue. Analysts suggest that Kim’s strengthened relationships with Russia and China, along with North Korea’s expanding defense capabilities, have reduced Pyongyang’s incentive to engage Washington directly.
Earlier this year, reports surfaced that Trump sent a personal letter to Kim through North Korea’s delegation at the United Nations, but the letter was reportedly declined. U.S. media also revealed that the Trump administration had sought advice from external experts on restoring communication with Pyongyang, though these efforts have so far produced no tangible results of getting another summit meeting.