South Korea test

South Korea test-launches hypersonic missile

The South Korean presidential office announced on Thursday that the country had succeeded in its first test launch of a hypersonic missile.

The missile is a new type of weapon that is said to be virtually impossible to intercept.

Its warhead reportedly separates from the booster at a high altitude and then glides at lower altitudes at five times the speed of sound or above while changing trajectory.

The missile was reportedly test-launched from a pad on the sea. Its separated warhead then changed trajectory vertically and horizontally, and was confirmed to have accurately reached its target.

President Lee Jae Myung oversaw the test.

Lee said South Korea will secure its national security through its own means.

He said the hypersonic missile must be advanced further so it becomes a strategic asset to protect the country.

North Korea has also been developing hypersonic missiles in recent years, and has published reports of launch tests.