SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korea fired several ballistic missiles into the sea on March 10, 2025, shortly after the U.S. and South Korean militaries commenced their annual military drills. The missile launches were reported by South Korea’s military as a response to what North Korea perceives as provocative training exercises.
- North Korea fires ballistic missiles into sea
- South Korea and U.S. conduct joint military drills
- North Korea warns of potential conflict escalation
- Civilian area mistakenly bombed by South Korean jets
- Investigation launched after bombing incident
- Live-fire exercises temporarily suspended in South Korea
The Joint Chiefs of Staff in South Korea confirmed that this was North Korea’s fifth missile launch of the year. The missiles were launched from Hwanghae province, although details regarding their range were not disclosed. In light of these events, South Korean forces have heightened their surveillance and are working closely with U.S. military officials.
The recent missile launches come just hours after the commencement of the Freedom Shield command post exercise between South Korean and U.S. troops. This year’s drills are particularly significant as they mark the first major combined training since President Donald Trump took office for his second term. The allies have engaged in various field training exercises leading up to this event.
North Korea’s Foreign Ministry condemned these drills, warning that they could escalate tensions into “physical conflict.” It described the military exercises as an “aggressive and confrontational war rehearsal,” reiterating leader Kim Jong Un’s commitment to enhancing North Korea’s nuclear capabilities in response to perceived threats from the U.S. and its regional allies.
This year’s training follows a pause in live-fire exercises due to an incident where two South Korean fighter jets mistakenly bombed a civilian area during a preparatory drill last week, injuring about 30 people. An investigation is underway regarding how one pilot entered incorrect coordinates while another failed to verify targets visually before dropping bombs.
General Lee Youngsu of the South Korean air force publicly apologized for the injuries caused by this bombing incident and emphasized that such mistakes should never occur again. Following this error, both South Korean and U.S. militaries halted all live-fire exercises until further notice while they complete their investigation and implement preventative measures.
The recent missile firings by North Korea highlight ongoing tensions surrounding military activities in East Asia. As both sides prepare for potential conflicts through drills and responses, it remains crucial for international observers to monitor developments closely.
