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North Korea test-fired a new high-altitude, long-range anti-aircraft missile into the East Sea on December 24, attended by leader Kim Jong-un. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that this was the first test to assess the tactical and technical performance of the missile system currently under development, with missiles successfully striking targets at 200 kilometers.

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) confirmed that they had prior intelligence and detected the missile launch from South Hamgyong Province. Detailed specifications of the missiles are under analysis by South Korean and U.S. intelligence.

The test is part of North Korea's routine military activities aimed at enhancing its air defense capabilities. Kim also inspected the construction of an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered submarine, which he described as crucial for the country's nuclear deterrent strategy.