On Sunday, North Korea fired two ballistic missiles into the sea, according to the South’s military. This latest launch comes as tensions are high in the region due to US-led military exercises.
North Korea has defended its recent series of missile tests, saying they are a response to the military threats posed by the US and its allies. So, what’s really going on here? Is North Korea simply trying to show its strength, or is there more to this story?
A Show of Force?
On the surface, it would appear that North Korea is simply trying to show its strength. After all, a series of missile tests is a clear display of force. And given the current tensions in the region, it’s not surprising that North Korea would want to send a message to the US and its allies.
However, some experts believe that there may be more to this story than meets the eye. They point to the fact that North Korea has launched more missiles in the past two weeks than it has in the past two years. This sudden increase in activity could be a sign of desperation on the part of North Korea.
A Sign of Desperation?
One theory is that North Korea is feeling pressure from both inside and outside its borders. Economically, things are not looking good for North Korea.
The UN recently imposed new sanctions on the country, and China—North Korea’s biggest trading partner—has been cutting back on its imports from North Korea.
In addition, there have been reports of growing discontent among North Koreans who are tired of living in poverty.
Against this backdrop of economic hardship, it’s possible that North Korea’s recent missile tests are less about sending a message and more about maintaining control. By showing its strength and defiance in the face of adversity, North Korea hopes to keep its citizens united and prevent them from turning against the government.
North Korea’s recent ballistic missile tests have led some to question whether they are a show of force or a sign of desperation. While it’s certainly possible that they are both, it’s also worth considering that they may be neither.
