Tensions rise as North Korea launches missiles near Japan

North Korea fired at least two ballistic missiles toward the Sea of Japan on Tuesday, according to reports from Tokyo and Seoul.

The launch came a day after a top U.S. official visited South Korea and praised it as a “model ally.”

The Japanese coast guard said the missiles landed outside Japan’s Exclusive Economic Zone. South Korea also confirmed detecting several missiles fired toward what it calls the East Sea.

This is North Korea’s second missile test this month. The first happened just before South Korea’s leader traveled to China for a summit.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently criticized South Korea’s plan to develop nuclear-powered submarines with U.S. support, calling it a threat.

Pyongyang often condemns joint military drills by the U.S. and South Korea as preparations for an invasion.

Analysts say the missile test could be intended to increase tensions before North Korea’s upcoming party congress, strengthen internal control, and possibly respond to the U.S. official’s visit.

North Korea has also sent thousands of troops to support Russia in its ongoing war in Ukraine.