North Korea Fires Ballistic Missiles Ahead of Ulchi Drills

North Korea fired ballistic missiles off its eastern coast near Wonsan in multiple launches this week, with flight distances reported at more than 700 kilometers and altitudes around 90 kilometers before crashing into the sea or waters. South Korea and Japan confirmed the launches and noted heightened tensions ahead of joint US-South Korea drills known as Ulchi Freedom Shield, which are scheduled to begin soon. Seoul characterized the actions as provocations and reaffirmed readiness to defend with the United States; Tokyo condemned the launches as threats to regional security. Analysts say Pyongyang is signaling resolve ahead of the drills and may be seeking concessions or deterrence. If confirmed as ballistic missiles, these would be North Korea’s 11th ballistic missile launch this year, reflecting increased testing activity amid sanctions and diplomacy efforts.