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North Korea’s recent attempt to launch a spy satellite into orbit has been unsuccessful, according to state media. This comes only a few months after their first launch, which resulted in the rocket crashing into the ocean moments after liftoff. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has prioritized the development of a spy satellite to counterbalance the increasing military presence of the United States in the region.

The National Aerospace Development Administration of North Korea announced that they conducted the second launch of the reconnaissance satellite, Malligyong-1, using the new-type carrier rocket, Chollima-1, at the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground. The flights of the first and second stages were said to be normal, but the launch failed due to an error in the emergency blasting system during the third-stage flight.

South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed the launch, stating that North Korea claimed it to be a space launch vehicle. The projectile flew over international airspace in the Yellow Sea. South Korea’s military remains on high alert and in close coordination with the United States.

Japan also reported the launch, expressing concern over the use of banned ballistic missile technology and the projectile passing through their airspace near Okinawa. Japan’s government spokesman emphasized the need to ensure the safety of residents, aircraft, and ships in response to the launch.

This failed launch follows the recent US-South Korea joint military drills, known as Ulchi Freedom Shield, which always anger North Korea. Though the recent launch was not successful, it showed progress compared to the previous attempt. Failure and lessons learned are common in the development of space technology.

In May, North Korea launched its first military reconnaissance satellite, but the rocket carrying it, the “Chollima-1,” crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff. Experts from South Korea and the United States concluded that the satellite had no military utility. North Korea’s ruling party criticized the officials responsible for the failed launch.

Diplomatic relations between North and South Korea are strained, with no progress made in discussions about North Korea’s denuclearization. Kim Jong Un has declared North Korea an “irreversible” nuclear power and called for increased arms production, including tactical nuclear weapons.

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