North Korea threatens to turn Pacific into ‘firing range’ as it tests nuclear-capable launcher

Kim’s sister says ICBM warhead’s re-entry did not fail and calls the US ‘worst maniacs’

North Korea said it fired projectiles in the first tests of its nuclear-capable launcher, a day after it tested its first intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) of 2023.

The tests were followed by a stark warning from the powerful and outspoken sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, who told the US the country would turn the Pacific into a “firing range”, heightening tensions in the Asia-Pacific region.

Pyongyang’s latest round of missile tests sparked urgent responses from the US and South Korea, with Japan urging an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council.