Part 6/9:
North Korea’s Provocations and Strategic Messaging
The test appears to be a direct response to recent joint naval exercises conducted by South Korea, the U.S., and Japan. North Korea condemned these military activities, accusing the U.S. and its allies of provoking their country and threatening catastrophic consequences if provocations continue.
A North Korean spokesperson claimed that the country is enhancing its maritime and underwater response capabilities to deter what they describe as the "hostile" military maneuvers by U.S. and allied navies. However, South Korean intelligence agencies and the U.S. have expressed skepticism about North Korea's claims, noting that their capabilities remain unverified and that North Korea's assertions may be exaggerated or intended for propaganda.