North Korea Tests Hypersonic Missile, Intervention in China-South Korean President Meeting This Afternoon?

Illustration of a ballistic missile being fired. (Cagrikarip-Pixabay)

JAKARTA - North Korea (North Korea) conducted a test launch of a hypersonic missile that was directly monitored by President Kim Jong Un on Sunday, January 4. This launch is considered a provocation, but North Korea argues that the test is to strengthen the prevention of nuclear war between countries.

The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Monday, January 5, said the test took place just hours before South Korean President Lee Jae Myung departed for China to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

"Through today's launch exercise, we can ensure that the technology tasks that are so important for national defense have been carried out," Kim said, quoted by AP.

"We must continue to improve military facilities, especially offensive weapons systems," he continued.

Kim added that he would defend North Korea's efforts to strengthen its nuclear program. "Why it is necessary is exemplified by the recent geopolitical crisis and complicated international events," he said.

Possession of hypersonic weapons would allow North Korea to have the ability to penetrate the missile defense shield of the United States (US) and South Korea.

In recent years, North Korea has been known to have carried out a series of tests to continue to improve its hypersonic weapons capabilities. However, the speed and maneuverability of the missile are still a question for experts.

In addition to its hypersonic weapons, North Korea has in recent weeks conducted tests of a long-range strategic cruise missile and a new anti-aircraft missile. North Korea also published the construction of its first nuclear-powered submarine.

North Korea's nuclear program is also expected to be discussed when Lee and Xi meet on Monday, January 5, this afternoon local time.

The South Korean government office had previously asked China, North Korea's main ally in militarism and economic channels, to take a "constructive role" in efforts to promote peace on the Korean Peninsula.