North Korea announced a test-fire of an intermediate-range ballistic missile that it claims can maneuver in flight to evade defenses in South Korea and Japan, with alleged low-altitude trajectory changes and unspecified artificial intelligence capabilities.

The announcement came after Kim Yo Jong dismissed Seoul’s demand for an apology over mines in the DMZ that wounded South Korean soldiers.

The missile was reportedly launched from near the eastern coastal city of Wonsan and traveled more than 700 kilometres, according to South Korea’s military.

The test occurs amid ongoing tensions on the Korean Peninsula and heightened international scrutiny of Pyongyang’s missile program.

Analysts note Kim Jong Un has expanded North Korea’s nuclear-capable missile arsenal, with long-range systems potentially reaching the U.S. and shorter-range systems threatening regional targets, while diplomacy with Washington remains stalled.

Analysts say Pyongyang has sidelined diplomacy with the U.S. and South Korea since 2019, increasing alignment with Russia’s war in Ukraine as it continues to build its missile capabilities.

Ju Ae has emerged prominently in public appearances and is viewed by some South Korean intelligence sources as a likely future successor to Kim Jong-un, reflecting her growing role in ceremonies and military events.

Photos show Kim with his daughter Ju Ae and wife Ri Sol Ju, underscoring Ju Ae’s rising prominence at state and military events.

South Korea’s military did not immediately comment on Kim’s claims, and often questions North Korea’s portrayal of its capabilities.

South Korea raised its surveillance level and coordinated with the United States and Japan in response, while the U.S. Pacific Command said there was no immediate threat to U.S. personnel or territory.

South Korea’s presidential national security office urged North Korea to halt ballistic launches as UN sanctions violations, with continued joint monitoring by the U.S. and Japan.

The international response calls for halting launches, enforcing sanctions, and maintaining vigilance with allies; Washington says there is no immediate threat to U.S. personnel or territory.