Japan: "No Confirmation of North Korea's Satellite Orbit Insertion... Additional Launch Possibility Not Ruled Out"

The Japanese government announced on the 22nd that it has not yet confirmed whether the military reconnaissance satellite launched by North Korea the previous night has entered its planned orbit. Japan does not rule out the possibility of North Korea launching additional reconnaissance satellites and plans to maintain an alert status until midnight on the 1st of next month.

On the 22nd, when North Korea announced that it had launched a military reconnaissance satellite the previous night, the area around Kaepung County, Hwanghaebuk-do, North Korea, viewed from Odusan Unification Observatory in Paju-si, Gyeonggi Province, was shrouded in fog. Photo by Jinhyung Kang aymsdream@

According to major Japanese media, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno explained this during a morning press conference, stating, "A comprehensive and professional analysis is necessary regarding this launch, and accordingly, time is required."

North Korea announced on the same day that it successfully launched its first military reconnaissance satellite, 'Malligyong-1,' and accurately placed it into orbit. It also stated plans to launch several additional reconnaissance satellites within a short period.

Secretary Matsuno pointed out, "Since last year, North Korea has repeatedly conducted launches using ballistic missile technology at an unprecedented frequency, rapidly improving its missile-related technology and operational capabilities," adding, "There is a possibility that North Korea will persist in launches aimed at satellite deployment in the future."

He further stated that the continuation of the destruction order issued in May in preparation for North Korea’s satellite launches will be appropriately determined after collecting and evaluating various information.

At an afternoon press conference, Secretary Matsuno also said, "While there is still a possibility of further launches, I refrain from speculating on specific timing," and added, "I understand that the alerts issued for ships and aircraft based on North Korea’s notifications will be maintained until midnight on the 1st of next month."