North Korea fires ballistic missile ahead of US-South Korea drills

In early August 2026, North Korea launched a ballistic missile toward the sea, just days before the United States and South Korea were set to begin major military drills. This was the second such launch within a week, according to reports. The missile test came amid North Korean statements about needing the capability to counter strikes that would make an enemy's 'survival impossible.'

The launch also followed a warning by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines about potential threats. The US and South Korea have not yet publicly responded to the latest test, but the drills are expected to proceed as planned.