On the DPRK’s Recent Launches Using Ballistic Missile Technology

The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s (DPRK) May 27 and May 29 launches using ballistic missile technology in direct violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs).  These launches continue the DPRK’s reckless behavior, which poses a grave threat to the Korean Peninsula, the region, and international peace and security and undermine the global non-proliferation regime.  The United States reiterates that its commitments to the defense of the ROK and Japan are ironclad.

The DPRK’s actions will only intensify its isolation as it undermines stability and security on the Korean Peninsula.  We will continue to work closely with the international community to disrupt the DPRK’s illicit revenue generation, which supports its UNSCR-prohibited weapons programs through the exploitation of overseas workers and malicious cyber activities.  We condemn the DPRK regime’s decision to divert scarce resources away from the North Korean people toward its weapons programs.

These launches serve as a reminder of the need for all countries to fully implement DPRK-related UNSCRs that prohibit the DPRK from acquiring technologies and materials to advance its WMD and ballistic missile programs.  We urge the DPRK to abide by relevant UNSCRs and immediately cease all activities that violate them.  Together with the international community, we call on the DPRK to refrain from further provocations and accept our call for engaging in substantive dialogue without preconditions.