North Korea Tests Multiple Rocket Launchers, Kim Jong Un Oversees Drill

North Korea conducted a test of its 600mm-calibre multiple rocket launcher system on Saturday, March 14, 2026, overseen by leader Kim Jong Un, state media KCNA reported on Sunday. The test involved the launch of twelve rockets and came after the United States and South Korea concluded annual joint military drills.

Kim Jong Un Supervises Launch

Kim Jong Un observed the live-fire test of the multiple rocket launch systems, accompanied by his daughter, Kim Ju Ae. KCNA stated that Kim declared the drill would instill “uneasiness” among enemies within a 420km striking range and demonstrate the “destructive power of tactical nuclear weapons.” The system was described by KCNA as “unique in the world” and capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

Accuracy and Target Impact

According to KCNA, the rockets accurately hit a target located on an island in the East Sea, approximately 364.4 km away. Kim Jong Un characterized the new system as a “very deadly but attractive weapon.”

South Korea’s Response

South Korea’s military detected approximately ten ballistic missiles launched from the Sunan area of North Korea on Saturday, traveling around 350 kilometers. Seoul condemned the launches as a provocation violating UN Security Council resolutions and urged Pyongyang to cease such actions. Channel NewsAsia reported on the event.

US-South Korea Military Drills and North Korean Concerns

The rocket launches occurred shortly after the conclusion of joint military exercises involving around 18,000 South Korean and American soldiers, which ran until March 19. Kim Yo Jong, sister of Kim Jong Un, had previously warned of “terrible and unimaginable consequences” in response to the drills, deeming them a “provocative and aggressive war rehearsal.” AOL provided details on this context.

Potential for Dialogue

Despite tensions, there have been signals of potential dialogue. South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-seok reported that U.S. President Donald Trump believes a meeting with Kim Jong Un could be “a good thing,” potentially occurring during Trump’s planned visit to China in late March-early April or later. North Korea has indicated a willingness to engage with the United States if its status as a nuclear power is recognized.

Ongoing Efforts to Denuclearize North Korea

Washington has long led efforts to dismantle North Korea’s nuclear program, but previous summits and sanctions have yielded limited results. The Trump administration has recently sought to restart high-level talks with Pyongyang. New Straits Times covered these ongoing efforts.