North Korea launched at least two ballistic missiles on Sunday, January 4, 2026. Japan's Defense Ministry reported that the missiles flew on irregular trajectories for 900 km and 950 km, placing a large section of southern Japan within striking distance. Japan is coordinating closely with the United States and South Korea in response.
North Korea conducted its first missile tests of 2026 by launching at least two ballistic missiles on Sunday, January 4. According to Japan's Defense Ministry, the missiles followed irregular trajectories, traveling 900 kilometers and 950 kilometers respectively before landing in the Sea of Japan outside Japan's exclusive economic zone, which extends 200 nautical miles (about 370 kilometers) from its coast. This range places a significant portion of southern Japan within potential striking distance, heightening regional security concerns.
Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi stated, "North Korea's series of actions, including repeated ballistic missile launches, threaten the peace and security of our region and the international community," adding that Japan is coordinating closely with the United States and South Korea. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed the launch, noting that the missile had already fallen according to Japan's Ministry of Defense. Pyongyang's previous ballistic missile test occurred in November.
Meanwhile, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, during a recent visit to a munitions factory, called for more than doubling the production capacity of tactical guided weapons, as reported by state media on Sunday. In recent weeks, Kim has toured weapons factories, a nuclear-powered submarine, and overseen missile tests in preparation for the Ninth Party Congress of the Workers' Party, which will outline major policy goals for the year. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung began a state visit to China on the same day, where experts suggest he may request Beijing to facilitate dialogue with North Korea.
The launches underscore North Korea's efforts to maintain international spotlight amid ongoing tensions. Japan has strongly condemned the actions and pledged to strengthen cooperation with allies.
