The debate over North Korea and its activities continues to drive conversations around the world, leading to great concern; particularly due to the nation’s nuclear arsenal. North Korea is the only country in the world to make two underground nuclear tests within the past few years. As such, many are wondering: how many missiles has North Korea launched in 2019?
The answer is surprising. In spite of international bans and heavy sanctions, North Korea has test-fired at least 24 missiles in 2019, located in the range of Wonsan, Kusong, and Pyongsan. This figure marks a significant surge from the 11 missiles tested in 2018.
This spike can be attributed to the diplomatic breakdown that has taken place between North Korea and the United States. Ongoing negotiations for denuclearization have failed to meet agreements, even after several symbolic meetings between the leaders of both countries. Even more concerning was that 14 of the 24 weapons tested this past year were identified as ballistic missile launches by the South Korean military.
While the United Nations Charter prohibits North Korea from developing, testing, or using any type of nuclear weapon, many experts are now asking if the North Korean government is, in fact, violating the charter. According to Sin Jisang, Professor Emeritus of North Korean Studies at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea, we may never know the answer.
“It is important to note that due to the lack of transparency in North Korea, the data and information that is currently available is limited. This makes it difficult to definitively determine if the tests have been in violation of the UN Charter. It is important that the international community continues to examine these tests, as well as hold North Korea responsible for any violations.”
As the international community continues to grapple with this escalating situation, many are concerned that North Korea could potentially launch more missiles in the future. In January 2020, the North Korean government declared that this recent surge of tests was a “solemn warning” that they must take precautions and be prepared in case of US provocation. Moreover, the North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un, also warned that additional missile launches may be necessary in the future.
Potential Strategies from the International Community
The international community has responded to the missile tests in various ways, ranging from diplomatic talks to economic sanctions and military force. However, many are questioning if any of these strategies can ultimately deter the North Korean government from its current course of action.
For example, economic sanctions have been used in the past, with little success. These sanctions are designed to limit the resources that North Korea has access to which, in turn, will make it difficult for them to continue missile tests. While these sanctions have been effective in some cases, many are skeptical that they will ultimately be enough to completely prevent North Korea from testing such weapons.
Meanwhile, some experts have called for dialogue between North Korea and the US. Several meetings between the two leaders were highly praised by the international community as a potential breakthrough in negotiations. Yet, after talks began to break down, it became increasingly clear that communication between the two sides would not be enough to put a halt to North Korea’s missile activity.
Yet, despite all of these strategies, it seems that the North Korean government has bested the international community. Without any real enforcement of the United Nations Charter or any meaningful deterrent, North Korea has continued their missile tests despite the risk to their own people, economy, and international relations.
Dangers of Missile Tests
Apart from being in violation of international law, the consequences of North Korea’s actions are also drawing sharp criticism from experts and policymakers. According to a recent report from the South Korean government, these tests have caused economic damage and significant strain in the diplomatic relations between North Korea and the international community.
Furthermore, these tests put the safety of the North Korean people at risk. Many of the missile launches were located close to populated areas, meaning that accidental casualties could occur if the weapons did not hit their intended target. Moreover, the proximity of some of the launches to US military bases has also caused heightened military tensions in the region and could lead to further escalations.
Recent reports of human rights violations by the North Korean government have put additional pressure on North Korea. Many are concerned that the human rights abuses by the government will lead to increased isolation from the international community, potentially devastating the North Korean people.
Finally, the missile tests have legal implications for North Korea. According to Article 2 of the United Nations Charter, it is illegal for any nation to “use force or the threat of force” against another nation. If found to be in violation of these terms, North Korea could face criminal charges and potential punishments from the international community.
North Korea’s Strategic Goals
In spite of the criticism, North Korea seems to be steadfastly pursuing a strategy of missile tests, nuclear development, and diplomatic brinkmanship. This is part of North Korea’s overarching goal of increasing their power and influence in the international community.
The North Korean government is estimated to have spent more than two billion dollars on their missile program since Kim Jong-un came to power in 2011. This is a significant portion of their budget and further illustrates North Korea’s commitment to the program. Many analysts also point to the North Korean government’s efforts to build up their nuclear arsenal, due to the belief that they can use these weapons to gain diplomatic leverage and deter any potential US aggression.
Moreover, the North Korean government is also using the missile tests to show the world that they have the technology to deliver a powerful weapon. This is seen as a display of power and strength to the international community and is seen as a show of defiance to those countries that oppose or criticize the North Korean government.
Stopping Missile Tests
So, what can be done? According to experts, the best way to stop the missile tests is to find a diplomatic solution. This means reaching an agreement through dialogue and negotiation between the US, North Korea, and the international community. In order to reach such an agreement, it is essential that all parties involved come to the table with an open mind and an eagerness to compromise.
Furthermore, it is also important that North Korea understands that these tests are dangerous and not in their best interest. The international community could use economic sanctions, diplomatic pressure, and increased military presence to make this point. However, it is crucial that these strategies are done in a calm, measured manner, in order to avoid any potentially harmful escalations.
Finally, the international community must continue to take preventative action, such as deploying missile defense systems, while also being prepared to take more drastic measures in the event of any accidental launches or violations of the UN Charter.
The North Korean Perspective
It is also important to consider this situation from North Korea’s perspective. North Korea has long been surrounded by powerful nations and military forces, leading to feelings of fear, insecurity, and distrust of their neighbors. They view the US, in particular, as hostile and viewed the missile tests as a way to assert their power and build an arsenal that can deter US aggression.
Moreover, many of the experts agree that it is unfortunately impossible to truly understand the mindset of the North Korean leadership. This makes it difficult for the international community to accurately predict the North Korean government’s intentions, making it impossible for them to make a truly informed decision about how to respond or prevent future missile tests.
Ultimately, it is essential that the international community remains vigilant and takes active steps to ensure the safety of their citizens and avert any potential conflicts or disasters stemming from the North Korean missile tests. It is also important for the international community to continue their efforts to engage in dialogue and negotiation with North Korea in order to find a peaceful solution to the current situation.
