North Korean Leader Kim Jong-un Inspects Cruise Missile Test Amid Joint Military Drills

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has visited a navy unit to inspect a cruise missile test aboard a warship, coinciding with the start of joint military drills between South Korea and the US on Monday. Kim observed the Navy flotilla responsible for defending the east coast as seamen on a patrol ship conducted a launching drill of “strategic” cruise missiles.

The exact date of his visit was not disclosed. Photos released by North Korean state media depicted a missile launch from Patrol Ship No. 661, with Kim observing from a separate vessel. During his visit, Kim pledged to enhance North Korea’s navy, focusing on improving combat efficiency and modernizing offensive and defensive capabilities.

The joint military drills between South Korea and the US, called Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS), commenced on the same day and are set to continue until August 31. This development comes amid concerns about potential provocations from North Korea, including the launch of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), as a response to the joint exercises.