South Korea tests first domestically developed hypersonic missile amid rising tensions with North Korea South Korea has conducted its first test launch of a domestically developed hypersonic glide vehicle, demonstrating a new weapons capability as tensions with North Korea continue to escalate. The weapon successfully separated from its booster, maneuvered at hypersonic speeds and struck […]

South Korea tests first domestically developed hypersonic missile amid rising tensions with North Korea

South Korea has conducted its first test launch of a domestically developed hypersonic glide vehicle, demonstrating a new weapons capability as tensions with North Korea continue to escalate.

The weapon successfully separated from its booster, maneuvered at hypersonic speeds and struck its designated target during the October 8 test, according to South Korean officials.

President Lee Jae Myung observed the launch, which Seoul described as a major step toward strengthening its independent defense capabilities. The system is designed to maneuver at high speeds, potentially making interception more difficult.

The test comes after a landmine explosion near the inter-Korean border on September 21 injured South Korean soldiers. Seoul has blamed mines planted by North Korea, while Pyongyang has denied responsibility.

The public disclosure of the missile test is widely viewed as a show of deterrence as military tensions between the two Koreas intensify.