PYONGYANG: In a recent development, North Korea has officially established a new holiday to commemorate the anniversary of the successful test launch of its formidable Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile last year. This missile, aptly nicknamed the “monster missile” by analysts, made its inaugural full flight test on November 18, 2022, marking a significant milestone in North Korea’s defence capabilities.
The North Korean Central News Agency announced the creation of “Missile Industry Day” during a meeting of the Presidium of the Supreme People’s Assembly. According to KCNA, this holiday signifies a momentous event in the nation’s journey of national defence development, where North Korea demonstrated its status as a world-class nuclear power with the most potent intercontinental ballistic missile.
North Korea has a history of conducting major weapons tests on key holidays, and recent reports indicate that the country is preparing for a third launch of a military reconnaissance satellite, following a failed attempt in August. This satellite launch has raised concerns among international observers, as there is a notable technological overlap between space launch capabilities and the development of intercontinental ballistic missiles. This raises questions about North Korea’s compliance with multiple UN sanctions banning such missile development.
Throughout this year, North Korea has conducted a record number of missile tests, disregarding warnings from the United States, South Korea, and their allies. In September, the country enshrined its status as a nuclear power in its constitution, with leader Kim Jong Un calling for the development of more modern atomic weapons to counter perceived threats from the United States. These developments continue to be closely monitored on the global stage.
