South Korea Unveils Advanced Missile Amid Tensions with North Korea

South Korea showcased its most powerful ballistic missile during a significant Armed Forces Day ceremony on Tuesday. This display comes as tensions rise with North Korea, with South Korea's president warning that any attempt by the North to use nuclear weapons could lead to the regime's downfall.

President Yoon Suk Yeol addressed thousands of troops at a military airport near Seoul, stating, "If North Korea attempts to use nuclear weapons, it will face the resolute and overwhelming response of our military and the (South Korea)-U.S. alliance. That day will be the end of the North Korean regime." He urged the North to abandon the notion that nuclear weapons would provide security.

During the ceremony, the South Korean military revealed around 340 pieces of military equipment, including the newly disclosed Hyunmoo-5 ballistic missile. This missile can carry approximately 8 tons of conventional warhead, allowing it to penetrate deep underground and potentially destroy North Korea’s bunkers.

In a show of solidarity, the United States participated in the event by flying a long-range B-1B bomber, reaffirming its security commitment to South Korea. Additionally, South Korea displayed its advanced fighter jets.

Since taking office in 2022, President Yoon has strengthened military alliances with the U.S. and promoted trilateral security cooperation among South Korea, the U.S., and Japan to address North Korea’s escalating nuclear threats. North Korea has conducted numerous missile tests in recent years and has threatened to use nuclear weapons in any conflicts with South Korea or the U.S.

Tensions escalated further last month when North Korea revealed photos of a secret uranium-enrichment facility, marking the first public disclosure since 2010. South Korean officials anticipate that North Korea may conduct more provocative tests ahead of the U.S. elections to enhance its diplomatic leverage with a new administration.

In response, North Korea’s vice defense minister, Kim Kang Il, condemned the U.S. for deploying military assets in South Korea, including a recent visit from a U.S. nuclear submarine and the B-1B flyover. He warned of North Korea’s plans to strengthen its "powerful war deterrent," which appears to refer to its nuclear capabilities. Observers speculate that this could lead to potential intercontinental ballistic missile tests targeting the U.S. mainland.

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