Pyongyang launches two more ballistic missiles

This was reported by the South Korean military. Two days ago the launch of a long-range cruise missile with probable nuclear capability. Chinese foreign visits Seoul.

Seoul (AsiaNew/Agencies) - North Korea launched two ballistic missiles in the Sea of Japan this morning. This was reported by the South Korean Joint Forces Command, adding that Seoul and U.S. intelligence are cooperating to obtain further information. Japan also confirmed the launch, which Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga called "offensive" and a threat to regional security.

Today's is the second missile test in a few days for the North Koreans, who on Sept. 13 launched a long-range cruise missile with probable nuclear capability.

The ballistic tests contravene U.N. resolutions designed to curb North Korea's nuclear activity. Compared to cruise missiles, ballistic missiles can carry larger loads, reach more distant targets and travel faster. 

Kim Jong-un's regime is grappling with a severe economic crisis marked by food shortages. In the last year, the country has been in isolation and trade with China - its only true partner - has also dropped dramatically. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is in Seoul for two days of talks. 

Last month, Pyongyang spoke of a "serious security crisis" referring to the annual military exercise between South Korea and the United States. The communist regime also gave signs of restarting a nuclear reactor producing plutonium in Yongbyon.

• north korea
• pyongyang
• seoul
• south korea
• japan
• china
• missiles
• missile test
• nuclear
• united nations
• threat