The missiles traveled roughly 560 miles (900km), the Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. South Korean and U.S. authorities are currently analyzing the details of the launches. The Joint Chiefs of Staff also stated that South Korea is maintaining a state of readiness to deter any further provocations from North Korea and is actively sharing information with the United States.

This launch occurs within a complex geopolitical landscape. North Korea has been under international sanctions for its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs, which it defends as a necessary deterrent against potential U.S. and South Korean aggression. These sanctions, imposed by the United Nations Security Council, have had a significant impact on North Korea's economy, but have not deterred its weapons development.

Lee Jae Myung's planned visit to China is viewed as an opportunity to discuss potential avenues for de-escalation and diplomatic engagement with North Korea. China, as North Korea's closest major ally and trading partner, holds considerable influence in the region. However, China has also expressed its commitment to denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula.

The timing of the missile launch, just before Lee's trip, could be interpreted as a signal to both South Korea and China, asserting North Korea's continued resolve to pursue its weapons programs. It also serves as a reminder of the ongoing tensions in the region and the challenges involved in finding a peaceful resolution to the North Korean nuclear issue.

The situation remains tense, and military authorities in South Korea and the United States are closely monitoring North Korean activities. Further analysis of the missile launches is expected to provide more information about the type of missiles used and the intent behind the timing of the launch. The international community is likely to condemn the launches as a violation of UN Security Council resolutions.