The Chronology of North Korean Missile Launches: A Timeline

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The Chronology of North Korean Missile Launches: A Timeline

1993: Beginnings of Missile Development

  • September 1993: North Korea announced its withdrawal from the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), marking its intent to develop missile capabilities unabated by international oversight.

1998: The Taepodong-1 Launch

  • August 31, 1998: North Korea launched its first ballistic missile over Japan, the Taepodong-1, which successfully reached the Pacific Ocean. This test signaled a significant advancement in its missile technology.

2006: Nuclear Test and Missile Activity

  • July 5, 2006: North Korea launched a series of seven missiles, including the long-range Taepodong-2, which exploded shortly after launch. This escalated tensions globally.
  • October 9, 2006: North Korea conducted its first nuclear test, further alarming the international community and leading to increased sanctions.

2009: Resumption of Tests

  • April 5, 2009: North Korea launched a long-range rocket, allegedly to place a satellite into orbit. This was condemned by the UN as a ballistic missile test.
  • May 25, 2009: The country conducted a second nuclear test, prompting a firm response from the United Nations through additional sanctions.

2012: Advancements in Technology

  • April 13, 2012: North Korea launched the Kwangmyongsong-3 satellite, although it failed shortly after takeoff. This showcase of technology was coupled with a want for economic aid.
  • December 12, 2012: The successful launch of Kwangmyongsong-3, indicating improved ballistic technology and ambitions.

2013: Further Provocations

  • February 12, 2013: North Korea conducted its third nuclear test, which was met with heightened sanctions from the UN Security Council.
  • March 2013: North Korea threatened missile strikes against the United States and its allies amid escalating tensions.

2014: Continued Missile Tests

  • March 2014: Numerous short-range missiles, including Scud variants, were launched into the sea, showcasing North Korea’s ongoing testing regime.
  • October 2014: North Korea displayed a new type of submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) at a military parade.

2017: The Year of Fire

  • February 12, 2017: North Korea launched its first missile of the year, a medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) known as the Pukguksong-1, further advancing its SLBM capabilities.
  • March 6, 2017: A test involving four ballistic missiles showed capabilities to strike U.S. facilities in Japan.
  • July 4, 2017: North Korea successfully tested the Hwasong-14 Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), capable of reaching the United States mainland.
  • September 3, 2017: North Korea conducted its sixth nuclear test, claimed to be a hydrogen bomb, escalating global tensions unprecedentedly.

2018: Diplomatic Engagement

  • January 1, 2018: Kim Jong-un stated that North Korea has a nuclear button on his desk, showcasing deterrent capabilities.
  • April 21, 2018: North Korea announced a moratorium on missile tests and nuclear detonations, amid a period of diplomatic engagement with South Korea and the United States.

2019: Diplomatic Setbacks and New Tests

  • May 4, 2019: North Korea conducted its first missile test after a moratorium, launching short-range missiles into the Sea of Japan.
  • November 28, 2019: The country launched a “super-large multiple rocket launcher,” signaling a continued commitment to its missile capabilities despite stalled negotiations.

2020: Continuing Developments

  • March 21, 2020: North Korea conducted short-range missile tests, further demonstrating its missile capabilities amid global focus on the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • December 2020: North Korea revealed its Hwasong-15 missile during a military parade, showcasing technological advancements.

2021: Show of Force

  • January 25, 2021: North Korea tested a new ballistic missile; the test emphasized military readiness amid international tensions.
  • March 2021: North Korea conducted short-range missile launches again, meeting with criticism from the international community.

2022: Increased Activity

  • January 5, 2022: North Korea launched what it described as a hypersonic missile, marking a significant development in its military capabilities.
  • September 30, 2022: The country conducted its longest-range missile test to date with an ICBM launch, flouting UN resolutions.
  • October 2022: North Korea launched multiple short-range missiles in response to joint military exercises conducted by the U.S. and South Korea.

2023: Continued Tensions

  • January 2023: North Korea launched several ballistic missiles, responding to continued military exercises by the US and South Korea.
  • August 2023: The country conducted more missile tests including cruise missile launches, reaffirming its commitment to military enhancement.

Conclusion

The timeline of North Korean missile launches shows a clear trajectory of increasing sophistication and aggression, punctuated by moments of diplomacy and international tension. Each test has further complicated the already intricate dynamics of East Asian geopolitics and has prompted responses from the global community, leading to debates over denuclearization, containment, and strategic engagement. As the country continues to advance its capabilities, the implications for regional and global security remain a topic of significant concern.