South Korea says North Korea launched ballistic missiles toward the sea

North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles towards the sea on Sunday, South Korea’s military has confirmed, in what marks the latest in a series of weapons demonstrations ahead of its upcoming ruling party congress.

Seoul’s Joint Chiefs of Staff reported detecting several ballistic missiles fired from the North Korean capital region at approximately 7.50am. The projectiles were directed towards the country’s eastern waters, though specific details regarding their trajectory or distance travelled were not immediately disclosed.

In response, the Joint Chiefs of Staff stated it has heightened its surveillance posture and is actively sharing intelligence with the United States and Japan. Japan’s defence ministry also confirmed spotting suspected missile launches. There were no immediate reports of any damage.

Experts say North Korea is likely ramping up weapons tests to show off its achievements in the defense sector ahead of the Workers' Party congress, the first of its kind in five years. Observers are watching the congress to see whether North Korea will set a new policy on the U.S. and respond to its calls to resume long-stalled talks.

North Korea hasn't announced when it will hold the congress, but South Korea's spy service said it will likely occur in January or February.

The launch also came hours before South Korea’s president, Lee Jae Myung, leaves for China for a summit with President Xi Jinping. During the four-day trip, Lee’s office said he would request China to make “a constructive role” in efforts to promote peace on the Korean Peninsula.

Earlier this week, North Korea said it fired long-range strategic cruise missiles into the sea. Earlier North Korea released photos showing apparent progress in the construction of its first nuclear-powered submarine.