Seoul / Pyongyang — March 16, 2026
Kim Jong Un Observes Rocket Launch Test With Daughter
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspected a live test of a rocket launch system alongside his daughter Kim Ju Ae, according to reports from state media on Sunday.
The test comes amid ongoing military exercises between the United States and South Korea, which Pyongyang views as preparations for a possible attack.
North Korea has repeatedly criticized these joint drills and often conducts weapons tests in response.
Rocket Launch Drill Conducted on Eastern Coast
According to the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim Jong Un personally observed the exercise on Saturday along North Korea’s eastern coast.
The drill reportedly involved 600-millimeter ultra-precision rocket launchers, which are part of North Korea’s evolving long-range strike capabilities.
Meanwhile, South Korea’s military said it detected around 10 ballistic missiles launched from areas near Pyongyang toward the East Sea.
South Korea Calls Test a Provocative Move
South Korea’s National Security Council described the launches as a provocative act and said they violated international restrictions.
Officials said the test breaches resolutions of the United Nations Security Council, which prohibit North Korea from conducting ballistic missile activities.
The council warned that such actions could further escalate tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
Kim Says Weapons Will Deter Enemies
During the inspection, Kim Jong Un reportedly said the weapons demonstration would instill fear among North Korea’s adversaries.
He claimed that enemies within a 420-kilometer strike range would understand the destructive potential of the country’s weapons systems.
Kim also warned that if these weapons were used, the enemy’s military infrastructure would face severe consequences.
His remarks were widely interpreted as referring to South Korea and US military forces stationed in the region.
Daughter Kim Ju Ae Appears at Military Event
Photos released by state media showed Kim Jong Un standing beside his daughter Kim Ju Ae near large green military launch trucks, observing the operation of the weapons systems.
Kim Ju Ae, believed to be about 13 years old, has appeared alongside her father at several high-profile events since late 2022, including missile tests and military parades.
Some analysts believe her frequent public appearances may signal that she is being prepared for a future leadership role.
Experts Highlight Capabilities of Rocket System
Defense analysts say North Korea’s large-caliber rocket launch systems function similarly to guided missiles, capable of self-propelled movement and in-flight control.
Pyongyang has claimed that some of these systems can carry nuclear payloads, though such claims remain a concern for regional security experts.
The weapons test occurred while the Freedom Shield joint military exercise between the United States and South Korea continues and is scheduled to run through March 19.
North Korea has historically responded to such drills with missile launches and strong political statements, raising tensions in the region.
