• North Korea test-fired hypersonic missiles, claiming they are ready for war.
• Kim Jong Un stated the tests were necessary due to "recent geopolitical crises."
• The launches were linked to the recent U.S. operation in Venezuela.
• Missiles successfully hit targets 1,000 km away over the Sea of Japan.
• North Korea aims to enhance its nuclear deterrent capabilities.

North Korea conducted test-firings of hypersonic missiles on January 4, signaling its military readiness amid escalating geopolitical tensions. Kim Jong Un, who oversaw the missile launches, emphasized the necessity of the tests, linking them to "the recent geopolitical crisis" resulting from a U.S. military operation in Venezuela, which included the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. State media reported that the missiles successfully hit targets approximately 1,000 kilometers away, marking the first missile test of 2026 for the regime, according to Reuters and Channel News Asia.

During the tests, Kim stated that "important achievements have been recently made in putting our nuclear forces on a practical basis and preparing them for an actual war." He articulated that this missile launch demonstrated the advancement of North Korea's nuclear capabilities as a strategic necessity amid complicated international circumstances. This marks a clear response to what North Korea perceives as threats from the United States and emphasizes its commitment to enhancing military readiness, as reported by South China Morning Post and Le Monde.

The missile tests come just as South Korean President Lee Jae Myung was set to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping, aiming to leverage China's influence to stabilize relations with North Korea. Analysts see these tests as North Korea's attempt to demonstrate military strength and assert its deterrent capabilities, complicating U.S. and South Korean defense strategies, according to Al Jazeera and Anadolu Agency.