North Korea simulates nuclear launch and conducts missile testing

North Korea conducted simulated exercises to manage a nuclear launch button under the leadership of Kim Jong Un, as reported by KCNA. During the exercises, Kim oversaw the nuclear counterattack maneuvers. At the same time, South Korea reported that North Korea has launched several short-range ballistic missiles into the East Sea. The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) described the launch as a provocation and stated that the missiles had traveled about 300 kilometers before falling into the sea. The JCS also pledged to remain vigilant against further provocations. These launches followed tests of a new medium-range ballistic missile equipped with a hypersonic warhead.