North Korea Faces Missile Test Setback

On Tuesday, May 31st, South Korean officials announced that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea) had failed in an attempt to launch a ballistic missile from the eastern city of Wonsan. US reports suggested that the missile was an intermediate-range Musudan capable of carrying a nuclear payload, and if confirmed, the missile test would be the fourth failed attempt since the nation started to outwardly pursue this technology.

Although North Korea has had numerous missile failures, they have also had some successes in launching both intermediate and short-range ballistic missiles. One such success included the launching of a satellite in February of this year.  Evidence of these accomplishments, and even some failures, demonstrate the continuing corrections and adaptations of North Korean technology.

Alongside missile tests, North Korea has revealed numerous sources that indicate they have nuclear weapons. As recent as January 6th, 2016, North Korean media outlets claimed to have successfully tested a hydrogen bomb. South Korea confirmed artificial earthquakes in the area and some evidence of radioactive debris was collected from the atmosphere surrounding the test site. Former CIA analyst and Center for Security Policy Fellow Fred Fleitz noted at the time that while the detonation was unlikely to have been a hydrogen bomb, the test still showed signs of research progress by the North Koreans.

As North Korea continues to operate against the wishes of the international community, both Japan and South Korea have increased the level of alert for their missile defense systems. Even China, largely regarded as North Korea’s sole ally, has expressed concern over Kim Jong Un’s lack of restraint.

For years, North Korea has been criticized by western nations for its adherence to inhumane and aggressive policies toward both its citizens and neighbors. The United Nations has repeatedly embargoed the country’s trade networks to limit technological, industrial, and economic growth. Yet, the most recent missile test is evidence that, despite failures and setbacks along the way, North Korea refuses to give up in its attempts to solidify its nuclear capabilities.