Kim Jong Un announces new hypersonic missile to deter rivals in the Pacific

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un announced that a new hypersonic missile system tested this week will deter rivals in the Pacific. This test coincided with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to South Korea. Kim claimed the missile flew 1,500 kilometers and reached speeds of 12 times the speed of sound. He emphasized that the missile's capabilities should not be underestimated and stated that North Korea's military development will continue. Blinken and South Korean officials condemned the missile launch, highlighting the need for stronger cooperation among the U.S., South Korea, and Japan. Concerns were also raised about North Korea's growing ties with Russia.