• North Korea fired multiple short-range ballistic missiles towards the East Sea on May 8.
• The launch was detected by South Korea's military, marking the first such test since March.
• The missiles reportedly flew up to 800 kilometers before landing in the sea, raising concerns over regional security.
• South Korea and Japan condemned the launches, labeling them a threat to regional stability.
• Experts suggest the tests may indicate preparations for missile exports, potentially to Russia.

North Korea has launched multiple short-range ballistic missiles from the eastern coastal city of Wonsan into the East Sea, according to South Korea's military. This event occurred on May 8 and is noted as the North's first missile test since March 10, with the missiles reportedly flying up to 800 kilometers before splashing down in the sea, raising new tensions in the region, as reported by Channel News Asia, India Times, and AA.

The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff indicated that the missiles were fired during a time when North Korea was also ramping up its military cooperation with Russia, suggesting a potential use of these missiles for export. The military has ensured it is on high alert and has strengthened monitoring in reaction to the North's aggressive stance, as articulated by India Times and Al Jazeera.

In response to the launches, both South Korea and Japan have condemned the missile tests, with Japanese officials stressing they pose a significant threat to regional peace. The defense ministries of both countries have actively communicated their concerns following the missile tests, reflecting growing unease among neighboring nations, according to AA and India Times.

The timing of the launches is also significant, as they coincide with reports of North Korea sending troops to support Russia in its conflict with Ukraine. This military activity further complicates the geopolitical landscape in East Asia and raises concerns in Washington and Seoul about North Korea's intentions, as noted by Channel News Asia and Al Jazeera.