Kim Yo Jong criticizes Japan's Tomahawk missile test, KCNA reports

Kim Yo Jong, a key figure in North Korea's leadership and the sister of leader Kim Jong Un, has strongly criticized Japan's recent test-firing of a Tomahawk missile. The statement, reported by state media KCNA, signals Pyongyang's heightened alert regarding Japan's military activities.

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Japan's launch of the long-range cruise missile a few days ago from the Aegis destroyer Chokai of its Self-Defense Forces in the Pacific Ocean, as well as test-firings of other missiles and its participation in a U.S.-led joint military drill in the Philippines in May.

Kim Yo Jong asserted that North Korea will develop additional military options in response to what it perceives as a growing threat from Japan. She specifically referenced Japan's launch of the long-range cruise missile from an Aegis destroyer in the Pacific Ocean, as well as its participation in U.S.-led military drills in the Philippines earlier this year.

According to Kim, Japan is attempting to "cover up its ambition for a military giant." She further suggested that the United States is orchestrating or supporting these "dangerous military moves" by Japan. This framing positions Japan's actions within a broader context of U.S.-North Korea tensions.

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Tokyo has so far tried to "cover up its ambition for a military giant" and "the U.S. is behind such dangerous military moves of Japan."

While Kim Yo Jong did not provide specific details about the "additional military options" Pyongyang intends to pursue, her statement underscores North Korea's resolve to counter any actions it deems detrimental to its security. The declaration serves as a clear warning to Japan and potentially the United States regarding future military responses.

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To counter Japan's military activities that may pose a potential threat to the security of North Korea, Kim said Pyongyang "will set up additional military options," without elaborating.