North Korea Launches Missiles in Show of Defiance Before Trump’s Seoul Visit

October 29, 2025

Modern Diplomacy

North Korea test-fired sea-to-surface cruise missiles west of the Korean peninsula on Tuesday, state media KCNA reported, just as U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in South Korea for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum. The timing adds tension to a high-profile week of diplomatic activity, including Trump’s planned talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

KCNA said the missiles flew for about 7,800 seconds (over two hours) along a preset path before striking their target. Kim Jong Un was not present at the launch.

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