North Korea fires suspected ballistic missile as joint military drills continue

On Thursday, August 20, 2026, North Korea launched a suspected ballistic missile into the sea east of the Korean Peninsula. Officials from the Japanese government and coast guard confirmed the projectile had fallen outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone. Military sources in South Korea also acknowledged the launch of an unidentified projectile, marking a continuation of regional tensions.

The launch occurred as the United States and South Korea conducted joint military drills. Following an order from U.S. President Donald Trump to significantly reduce American participation, the exercises were shortened to conclude this Friday. Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, recently criticized the ongoing drills, asserting that the hostile policy of the United States toward her nation remains unchanged despite the reduction in military activity.