Kim Jong-un watches nuclear drill simulating attack on South

Kim Jong-un observes the testing of a missile system. Photo: KCNA VIA KNS/AFP via Getty Images

Kim Jong Un looked on State media reported that the exercise, using missile launchers capable of carrying nuclear weapons, was intended to demonstrate the country's ability to launch a pre-emptive strike on South Korea.

North Korea has repeatedly simulated nuclear strikes on South Korea, but the latest drills came after hostile sentiment on the Korean Peninsula rose due to North Korea's recent failed launch of a spy satellite.

North Korea has test-fired several 600mm ultra-large rocket-propelled artillery systems. : KCNA VIA KNS/AFP via Getty Images

North Korea's official Central News Agency (KCNA) said the exercise was intended to demonstrate North Korea's determination to not hesitate to launch a preemptive strike on South Korea if threatened. He quoted Mr. Kim as saying that the drills “will serve as an opportunity to clearly show what consequences our rivals will face if they provoke us.”

Photos show Mr. Kim watching from afar at least 18 shells. were launched.

KCNA suggested the drills were a response to South Korean air drills held hours before North Korea's failed attempt to launch its second spy satellite into orbit on Monday evening.

North Korean missiles hit target during testing. Photo: KCNA VIA KNS/AFP via Getty Images

The launch attempt drew strong condemnation from South Korea, the US and others because the UN bans any North Korean satellite launches, viewing them as a cover for testing missile technology. North Korea reacted angrily, saying it has the sovereign right to launch satellites.

Also this week, North Korea launched hundreds of huge balloons filled with manure and other debris into South Korea and allegedly jammed GPS navigation signals in South Korea Korea. south. There were no reports of any significant damage.

South Korea's Unification Ministry responded Friday with a statement that North Korea must stop «absurd, irrational provocations directed at us» or face unspecified «unbearable» consequences. Ministry spokeswoman Kim Inae said separately that South Korea «strongly condemns» North Korea for threatening preemptive strikes against the South.