South Korea has achieved another milestone in its space program by successfully launching its second military spy satellite into orbit. This development comes shortly after North Korea’s announcement of plans to launch multiple reconnaissance satellites this year, further escalating tensions between the two nations.
The second spy satellite, launched from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, entered orbit as confirmed by South Korea’s Defense Ministry. The ministry spokesperson highlighted the satellite’s role in enhancing the country’s surveillance capabilities, particularly its preemptive missile strike capability, known as the “kill chain.”
Under a contract with SpaceX, South Korea aims to launch a total of five spy satellites by 2025. The first satellite was launched from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base in December last year. While South Korea had previously demonstrated its satellite launch capability using homegrown technology, experts suggest that utilizing SpaceX rockets offers greater efficiency, although more launches are needed to ensure reliability.
Meanwhile, North Korea is also pursuing its space-based surveillance network to counter perceived military threats from the United States and South Korea. Despite facing earlier launch failures, North Korea successfully placed its Malligyong-1 spy satellite into orbit in November. However, doubts remain about the satellite’s ability to transmit meaningful military imagery.
North Korea has announced plans to launch several more reconnaissance satellites this year, with leader Kim Jong Un vowing to launch three additional military spy satellites in 2024. South Korean Defense Minister Shin Wonsik anticipates that North Korea may proceed with its second spy satellite launch soon, potentially coinciding with the April 15 birthday of the late Kim Il Sung, the founder of the North Korean state.
The United Nations prohibits North Korea from conducting satellite launches, viewing them as disguised tests of long-range missile technology. Such actions have heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula, prompting both North and South Korea to take measures that violate their 2018 agreement to reduce military tensions.
In response to North Korea’s provocative missile tests, the United States and South Korea have intensified their military drills. Analysts suggest that North Korea aims to enhance its leverage in future diplomatic negotiations with the United States by expanding its weapons arsenals.
