South Korea Tests First Hypersonic Weapon

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung participated in the flight-test of the country’s first domestically developed hypersonic weapon. The test took place during Armed Forces Day at a military base in Gyeyong, South Korea, on October 1, 2026. The development aims to strengthen South Korea’s defense capabilities.

The hypersonic weapon is designed to travel at speeds five times faster than sound and evade missile defense systems. There was no immediate response from North Korea, although it had recently tested a similar weapon.

According to a statement, during the test, the weapon separated from its booster, maneuvered to hit a target. However, the statement didn’t disclose the precise location of the test. President Lee emphasized the importance of self-reliance in defense and inspected the country’s Hyunmoo-5 ballistic missile.

Tensions with North Korea have risen after three South Korean soldiers were injured in land mine explosions near the inter-Korean border. South Korea and the U.S.-led United Nations Command attributed the blasts to devices planted by North Korea. North Korea has denied involvement and criticized South Korea’s demands for an apology.

Kim Jong Un, North Korea’s leader, has increased weapons testing while growing his military nuclear program. He rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s diplomatic efforts and demanded a change in U.S. policy toward Pyongyang.

The strained relations pose challenges for President Lee, who supports engagement with North Korea. He has also advocated for enhanced defense capabilities for South Korea, reducing reliance on the U.S.

In its recent test, North Korea launched a hypersonic missile described as intermediate-range. Japan reported the missile landed outside its economic zone. South Korea noted the missile flew over 700 kilometers, with Japan estimating 680 kilometers. Kim Yo Jong, sister of Kim Jong Un, stated the differing estimates demonstrate the allies’ inability to track hypersonic missiles accurately.