Japan has also reported at least two missiles fired from North Korea, with one of them flying in an “irregular trajectory” at a distance of about 750 kilometers (466 miles), said Japanese Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi.
Kishi said the missile landed on the outskirts of Japan’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Last week, a US official warned that North Korea appeared to be preparing for an intercontinental ballistic missile test during the Biden voyage, after satellite images revealed the activity at a launch near the capital, Pyongyang. Biden met with the new president of South Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol. over the weekend, where the two leaders said they would begin exploring an expansion of joint military exercises between their countries.
When asked if he would meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Biden said it “depends on whether he is sincere and whether he speaks seriously.”
So far, Biden’s strategy has not yet resulted in a working meeting with North Korea in the year since the administration completed a review of U.S. policy toward the hermit kingdom, a senior US official said. the administration, adding that “it has not been for lack of trying.” . ”
Meanwhile, Yoon said South Korea and its allies are ready for any act of North Korean provocation.
Last month, Kim promised to “strengthen and develop” its nuclear forces at the “highest possible speed.”
The latest launches mark the 16th time North Korea has tested its missiles this year, including what the U.S. believes was a failed test of intercontinental ballistic missiles on May 4 that exploded shortly after launch.
The U.S. military and intelligence agencies estimate that Pyongyang is also preparing for its first underground nuclear test in nearly five years.
CNN’s Jeremy Diamond. Kevin Liptak, Jessie Yeung and Paula Hancocks contributed to the report.