North Korea says it has tested several new weapon systems in recent missile launches.
04/09/2026, 06:2404/09/2026, 06:24
Among the projectiles fired this week were ballistic missiles loaded with cluster munitions, North Korea’s state news agency KCNA reported. North Korea has also tested graphite bombs and electromagnetic weapons – both are weapon systems that are intended to paralyze electrical infrastructure, such as the power supply. North Korea’s information could not be independently verified.
People in South Korea are following a missile test by their neighbor.Image: keystone
On Wednesday, South Korea’s military registered several missile launches from North Korea, including short-range ballistic missiles with a flight distance of around 240 to 700 kilometers. According to UN Security Council resolutions, North Korea is generally prohibited from firing ballistic missiles.
Cluster munitions are weapon systems that break up in the air and release many small explosive devices over a large area. Because of their large area spread and the associated devastating consequences for the civilian population, cluster bombs are internationally banned. In addition, there is a high rate of duds with cluster munitions. Since 2010, the so-called Oslo Convention, a binding international convention banning cluster bombs, has come into force. North Korea is not part of the agreement. Recently, Iran also used cluster munitions in attacks on Israel.
Meanwhile, China announced a visit by Foreign Minister Wang Yi to neighboring North Korea starting today. It was said that China was ready for more exchanges with Pyongyang. (sda/dpa)