North Korea fired sea‑land maneuvering missiles off the Yellow Sea on Monday during President Donald Trump’s Asia trip, after the U.S. announced it would meet Kim Djong Un for talks.
Missile Tests Conducted
North Korea launched vertical‑takeoff, sea‑land maneuvering missiles from warship decks, which travelled more than two hours along a preset path over the Yellow Sea.
Timing Linked to Trump’s Visit
The tests coincided with President Trump’s announcement of readiness to meet Kim Djong Un during his current Asia tour, and occurred while he was on a side event of the APEC meeting in South Korea.
North Korea’s Capabilities
Officials say the missiles are capable of carrying nuclear warheads and are part of strategic deterrence demonstrations.
South Korean Verification
South Korea has announced it will verify the details of the tests, though the information was first released by the Korean Central News Agency.
Trump’s Response
Trump downplayed the tests, stating on Air Force One that North Korea will eventually engage in negotiations and that he “knows Kim very well.” He has met the North Korean leader three times in his first term, at Singapore, Hanoi, and the DMZ.
