North Korea’s Kim oversees test launch of long-range cruise missiles

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by Ted RegenciaDecember 29, 2025 at 01:31 AM

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medium article 2 min

On December 29, 2025, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a test launch of long-range strategic cruise missiles, according to state media. The missiles were launched over the sea west of the Korean Peninsula, hitting their target. Kim expressed satisfaction and called for the "unlimited and sustained" development of North Korea's nuclear combat forces. The launch, detected by South Korea near Pyongyang, was part of a series of activities leading up to a key party congress in early 2026, where a new five-year development plan will be set. Kim stated the tests were a responsible exercise in response to security threats and reaffirmed Pyongyang's commitment to its nuclear program. Separately, Kim inspected a nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine under construction.

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Kim Jong Un ×4100% North Korea ×5100%

Keywords

north korea 90% missile test launch 90% kim jong un 80% nuclear combat forces 80% long-range cruise missiles 70% security threats 60% military progress 60% party congress 50% nuclear deterrent 50% nuclear-powered submarine 40%