On January 26, 2025, North Korea conducted tests of strategic cruise missiles launched from the sea, according to the state news agency KCNA. The missiles reportedly traveled 1,500 kilometers in an elliptical and eight-shaped trajectory, successfully hitting their targets.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un attended the tests and stated that the military deterrence capabilities of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea are being further refined. KCNA emphasized that there was no negative impact on the security of neighboring countries.
This marks the first missile test by North Korea since Donald Trump returned to the White House. Prior to his presidential inauguration on January 29, Trump indicated in a recent interview that he would reach out to Kim, whom he described as a 'smart guy.'