North Korea launches hypersonic missile test

Test comes amidst heightened tensions in region, coinciding with US Secretary of State Blinken's visit to South Korea

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North Korea has confirmed the successful test of an intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile, which the country claims is designed to address security threats.

The test was overseen by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Gen. Jang Chang Ha, the head of the Missile Administration, according to the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

KCNA reported that the missile launch proved the country’s ability to develop powerful new weapon systems, specifically hypersonic missiles, in response to what it described as hostile forces.

The missile is said to have the capability to “reliably contain rivals in the Pacific region,” marking a significant technological achievement for the North Korean military.

The missile was reportedly launched from a suburb of Pyongyang.

The test comes amidst heightened tensions in the region, coinciding with a visit by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to South Korea.

Blinken condemned the missile launch during his trip, which coincided with South Korea's ongoing political crisis following a brief period of martial law that has disrupted state affairs.