(MENAFN) North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally supervised the launch of two advanced air defense missiles, state-run media reported Sunday, asserting that the tests demonstrated the weapons’ “superior combat capability.”

The missile tests occurred just one day before the scheduled meeting between US President Donald Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung in Washington, DC.

According to North Korean media Saturday’s missile launches confirmed their ability to provide a “fast response” against aerial threats such as attack drones and cruise missiles.

While media withheld specific details about the missiles, it claimed their “operation and reaction mode is based on unique and special technology” and did not reveal the test location.

These launches coincided with ongoing US-South Korea joint military drills. Meanwhile, Seoul reported that its forces fired warning shots on Tuesday after North Korean soldiers briefly crossed the heavily fortified border.

A South Korean news agency cited the UN Command in South Korea, stating that approximately 30 North Korean troops crossed the border line.

North Korea’s state media quoted Army Lieutenant General Ko Jong Chol, who labeled the border incursion a “premeditated and deliberate provocation.”

“This is a very serious prelude that would inevitably drive the situation in the southern border area where a huge number of forces are stationing in confrontation with each other to the uncontrollable phase,” said Ko.

South Korean President Lee has advocated for stronger ties with the nuclear-armed North, committing to build “military trust,” though Pyongyang has repeatedly rejected any overtures aimed at improving relations with Seoul.

MENAFN24082025000045017169ID1109967680