North Korea has tested an intermediate-range strategic missile that it said was equipped with artificial intelligence technology, with leader Kim Jong Un overseeing the launch.
Kim’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, disclosed the test on Saturday, saying the missile was capable of changing its flight trajectory at low altitude with artificial intelligence technology applied to it.
The missile was launched from the Wonsan area on North Korea’s east coast towards the East Sea, according to South Korea’s military, which said it travelled more than 700km.
North Korean state media later said the missile hit a target about 1,000km away in the East Sea during the firing drill.
Kim Yo Jong claimed the missile’s flight characteristics made it difficult for South Korea and Japan to track, saying its trajectory could change at low altitude.
South Korea, however, said its military had detected and tracked the launch, while Japan estimated the missile travelled about 680km before landing in waters outside its exclusive economic zone.
The test came amid heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula following a landmine blast in the Demilitarised Zone that injured three South Korean soldiers.
Seoul has blamed North Korea for planting the mines and demanded an apology, while Pyongyang has denied responsibility.
North Korea has increasingly highlighted the development of artificial intelligence for its weapons systems.
In May, state media reported that Kim had overseen tests of tactical cruise missiles equipped with AI-guided precision capabilities.
