North Korea Fires Ballistic Missiles Amid US-South Korea Defence Talks

• North Korea launched several ballistic missiles from near Pyongyang into the sea, travelling 350 km and reaching an altitude of 80 km.
• South Korea and Japan condemned the launches as provocative acts and a serious threat to regional security, violating UN resolutions.
• The launches coincide with discussions in Seoul between US and South Korean officials on modernizing their security cooperation.
• A recent Pentagon document suggests South Korea will take primary responsibility for deterring North Korea, with the US in a supporting role.
• North Korea has repeatedly tested short-range missiles, claiming they are part of a tactical nuclear force to deter the US and South Korea.

Why It Matters: North Korea's latest missile launches escalate tensions while US and South Korea redefine their defence strategy.