North Korea Launches Short-Range Ballistic Missiles Ahead of Trump's Return to Office

The missile tests, condemned as provocations, come during South Korea's political crisis and heightened regional tensions.

North Korea fired multiple short-range ballistic missiles into the East Sea, traveling approximately 250 kilometers before landing in waters between Korea and Japan.
South Korea's military condemned the launches as clear provocations, citing threats to regional peace and stability, and pledged a strong response in coordination with the U.S. and Japan.
The missile tests are North Korea's second this year, following the January 6 launch of a hypersonic intermediate-range missile, and occur days before Donald Trump's presidential inauguration.
South Korea's political instability, including the impeachment trial of suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol, has raised concerns about North Korea exploiting the situation to escalate tensions.
Experts suggest the launches may be intended to pressure the incoming Trump administration, as North Korea continues to expand its nuclear arsenal and strengthen ties with Russia.