Latest news in North Korea? September 20th, 2026

North Korea launched suspected short-range ballistic missiles from its east coast toward the East Sea (Sea of Japan).

The Quint

South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff and Japan’s Defense Ministry reported detecting an initial missile launched from the Wonsan area around 3:00 PM local time, which flew approximately 440 to 450 kilometers before landing outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone. A second missile launch was detected a few hours later.

Saudi Gazette+ 1

The tests follow Pyongyang’s rejection earlier in the week of an International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) resolution demanding a halt to its nuclear activities, alongside statements from North Korean officials reaffirming that the country’s nuclear-armed status is permanent and non-negotiable. In response, South Korea convened an emergency National Security Office meeting and increased surveillance alongside the United States and Japan.

The Hindu+ 1