North Korea says tests involved hypersonic missiles

North Korea reported that leader Kim Jong Un observed test-flights of hypersonic missiles and said the drills were meant to assess readiness and the country’s war deterrent ahead of a major party congress.

North Korea announced that leader Kim Jong Un observed test-flights of hypersonic missiles. The state news agency said the drill was meant to examine readiness, improve missile troops’ operational skills and evaluate the country’s war deterrent. Neighbouring countries reported detecting multiple missile launches around the same time and characterised the actions as provocations. The tests occurred ahead of the ruling Workers’ Party congress and as South Korean President Lee Jae Myung travelled to China for a summit with President Xi Jinping. Key reported facts: - The Korean Central News Agency reported that Kim Jong Un observed test-flights described as involving a hypersonic weapon system. - KCNA said the drill aimed to assess readiness, enhance missile troops’ operational skills and evaluate the operational capabilities of the country’s war deterrent. - Neighbouring governments reported detecting multiple ballistic missile launches and described them as provocations. - Independent journalists were not given access to the event and images released by North Korea’s government could not be independently verified; the tests came as regional leaders prepared for diplomatic meetings where the issue is expected to be discussed. Summary: North Korea’s official account emphasises testing and assessment of a hypersonic-capable system. Regional governments reported recent launches and attention is focused on the upcoming Workers’ Party congress and a summit between South Korea and China where North Korea’s nuclear program is expected to be discussed.