North Korea Fires Ballistic Missile During US–South Korea Military Drills
Pyongyang: North Korea fired a ballistic missile toward the sea off its eastern coast during ongoing joint military exercises conducted by the United States and South Korea, according to a report by NDTV. The launch was confirmed by South Korea’s military, which said the projectile was detected heading toward waters east of the Korean Peninsula.
Officials in Seoul reported that the missile was launched from an area near the North Korean capital, Pyongyang, though authorities did not immediately release further details about the weapon’s range or trajectory. Japan also acknowledged the launch, with its coast guard stating that the projectile appeared to have fallen into the sea after the test.
[Emergency alert]
— PM's Office of Japan (@JPN_PMO) March 14, 2026
North Korea has launched a suspected ballistic missile. More updates to follow.
The launch occurred as the United States and South Korea were carrying out major joint military exercises designed to improve their preparedness against potential threats from Pyongyang. The annual drills involve large numbers of troops and military equipment and are intended to strengthen defence coordination between the two allies.
North Korea has frequently criticised these exercises, describing them as preparations for an invasion. In response, Pyongyang has often conducted missile tests during or around the time of the drills as a show of defiance. Analysts say such launches are part of the country’s broader effort to advance its weapons programmes, including systems capable of delivering nuclear warheads.
According to NDTV, North Korea has been developing ballistic and cruise missile technology for decades, a pursuit that has triggered several rounds of sanctions from the United Nations Security Council since 2006. Despite these restrictions, the country has continued to test new weapons systems and strengthen its military capabilities.
The latest launch has once again highlighted the fragile security situation in the region. Observers say the continuing cycle of military exercises and missile tests contributes to rising tensions on the Korean Peninsula and underscores the challenges facing diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing the threat of conflict.
Also Read: U.S Is Begging World, India, To Buy Russian Oil; Iran’s Araghchi Hits Out At America