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The South Korean military announced that North Korea fired several short-range ballistic missiles toward the East Sea Wednesday, one day after another launch yesterday.Yonhap News Agency quoted the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) as saying that the missiles were launched from the Wonsan area of ​​North Korea and flew some 240 kilometers.This marks North Korea's fourth confirmed ballistic missile launch this year."Our military is closely monitoring North Korea's various movements under a robust South Korea-US combined defence posture and maintains the capabilities and posture to respond to any provocation in an overwhelming manner," the JCS said.South Korean and US intelligence authorities have tracked the launch movement and closely shared relevant information, sources added.North Korea's last multiple ballistic missile launch toward the East Sea occurred on March 14, coinciding with the annual spring joint military exercises between South Korea and the United States. 

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un oversaw the ground test of an upgraded rocket engine, state media reported Sunday, marking another key step in its weapons programme.Defence experts believe North Korea is planning to use its solid-fuel rocket engines for launching intercontinental ballistic missiles.The engines enable faster missile launches as they require little preparation before ignition.The latest test was "part of the national defence development plan in the period of the new five-year plan", Pyongyang's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said, without elaborating on the date or location of the test.It was the first officially confirmed high-thrust solid-fuel engine test since September last year, when state media said an engine generated a maximum thrust of 1,971 kilonewtons.KCNA reported the recent test had achieved a higher thrust of 2,500 kilonewtons.The development demonstrates North Korea's "resolve to acquire missiles capable of hitting targets around the globe", Hong Min, an analyst at the Korea Institute for National Unification, told AFP."Given the increased maximum thrust, this indicates its intention to possess ICBMs with global strike range, as well as the ability to overwhelm missile defence systems," he added.Photos released by KCNA showed leader Kim Jong-un inspecting what appeared to be part of the engine, flanked by officials.Another image showed flames erupting from a ground-mounted engine, illuminating the surrounding test site in orange light.Kim said that North Korea's defence capabilities had entered "a significant phase of change" in building up its strategic forces.The North has already demonstrated it has mastered the engine technology needed to launch a missile capable of reaching the US mainland with a lower-thrust engine, said Lee Ho-ryung of the Korea Institute for Defense Analyses."They have already passed that mark," she said.The question is no longer whether a missile could reach the US, but whether it could carry multiple warheads, she said.A multi-warhead missile can strike multiple targets with a single launch while overwhelming defence systems through simultaneous, dispersed reentry vehicles."A multi-warhead missile needs higher thrust power because of its heavier weight," she said."In order for the North to show it can launch a multi-warhead ICBM, it needs a test launch to prove its mastery of such technology."Pyongyang last test-fired an ICBM in October 2024.Kim also visited a special forces training base, according to a separate KCNA report, inspecting drills in which photos showed soldiers wielding weapons, including an axe and a sledgehammer.The demonstration "showed the physical and technical ability they have prepared to be a match for a hundred combatants with iron fists", KCNA said. 

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung called Sunday for dialogue with North Korea to resume, after Pyongyang last week shunned the prospect of diplomacy with its neighbour.Since taking office in June, a dovish Lee has sought to mend ties with the nuclear-armed North, which reaffirmed its anti-Seoul approach during a party meeting last week."As my administration has repeatedly made clear, we respect the North's system and will neither engage in any type of hostile acts, nor pursue any form of unification by absorption," Lee said in a speech marking the anniversary of a historical campaign against Japan's colonial rule."We will also continue our efforts to resume dialogue with the North," he said.North Korean leader Kim Jong-un last week dashed hopes of a diplomatic thaw with Seoul, describing its overtures as "clumsy, deceptive farce and a poor work".Speaking at the party congress in Pyongyang, Kim said North Korea has "absolutely no business dealing with South Korea, its most hostile entity, and will permanently exclude South Korea from the category of compatriots".But he also said the North could "get along well" with the US if Washington acknowledges its nuclear status.Speculation has mounted over whether US President Donald Trump will seek a meeting with Kim during planned travels to China.Last year, Trump said he was "100 percent" open to a meeting.Previous Trump-Kim summits during the US president's first term fell apart after the pair failed to agree over sanctions relief — and what nuclear concessions North Korea might make in return. 

The Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA) announced Tuesday that the Arirang-7 multi-purpose satellite successfully has reached its orbit after being launched from a spaceport in South America.In a statement, KASA said that the satellite separated from the Vega-C rocket 44 minutes after its launch from the Guiana Space Centre.The statement added that Arirang-7 is equipped with a high-resolution electro-optical camera and an infrared sensor, and will provide high-quality images for environmental monitoring and observation.

South Korea on Thursday confirmed the successful launch of its homegrown space rocket Nuri, which took off from Naro Space Center, with the main unit of the 13 satellites deployed establishing communication with King Sejong Station in Antarctica.The 200-ton Nuri blasted off from the center in the country's southern coastal village of Goheung, South Korean news agency (Yonhap) reported.According to Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA) and the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI), the main satellite, CAS500-3, made communication with South Korea's research center in Antarctica, allowing experts to check the unit's condition.About two minutes after liftoff, Nuri separated the first stage, followed by the second-stage four minutes and 30 seconds into the flight. After reaching the target altitude of 600 km, Nuri separated the main satellite, along with 12 cube satellites.The main satellite will be tasked with conducting space science research, including measurement of space magnetic fields and plasma along with observation of auroras.South Korea previously conducted three Nuri rocket launches in 2021, 2022, and 2023, achieving gradual advancements in its technical capabilities. The country plans a fifth launch in 2026 and a sixth in 2027 as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen its presence in the space sector.

The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) and the National Museum of Korea (NMK) are presenting the ‘Islamic Art: A Journey of Splendour’, which opened Saturday in Seoul, South Korea. The landmark collaboration marks the first comprehensive presentation of MIA’s world-renowned collection in South Korea, taking audiences on an extraordinary journey into the history of Islamic art and culture as it evolved in regions stretching from Spain to China.A press preview was recently held with the attendance of dignitaries and the directors and representatives of the MIA and NMK, including Qatar’s ambassador to Korea Khalid Ebrahim al-Hamar, MIA director Shaika Nasser al-Nassr, NMK director You Hong June, and Dr Mounia Chekhab Abudaya, deputy director of Curatorial Affairs at the MIA.On view through October 11, 2026, in the NMK’s World Art Gallery, the exhibition brings together more than 80 masterpieces spanning 1,400 years, including exquisite Quranic manuscripts, ceramics, glassware, textiles, scientific instruments, and objects from royal courts.It celebrates exceptional craftsmanship and creativity and the evolution of Islamic art across continents through trade, scholarship, and artistic innovation. “We extend our sincere gratitude to the National Museum of Korea for the partnership and warm collaboration that have brought this exhibition to life. Islamic Art: A Journey of Splendour reflects our commitment to nurturing cultural dialogue and mutual appreciation through the universal language of art.**media[384926]**“As we mark the 20th anniversary of Qatar Museums, this exhibition stands as a testament to our ongoing dedication to strengthening global exchange and understanding. Together, we celebrate the power of art to connect people and inspire understanding across borders,” said Shaika Nasser. The exhibition unfolds across three thematic sections that guide visitors through the spiritual, cultural, and artistic expressions of the Islamic world.It explores ‘Islam and Religious Art of Islamic World’, ‘The Embrace and Expansion of Islamic Culture’, and ‘The Islamic Courtly Culture and Manuscripts’. At the conclusion of the exhibition, visitors can experience a digitally reconstructed version of an 1817 Damascene reception room, recreated by MIA. Islamic Art: A Journey of Splendour will underscore the significance of Islamic art beyond its traditional geographic and cultural spheres, highlighting the shared values of craftsmanship, calligraphy, and heritage that resonate throughout the Islamic world and Korea.June said, “This exhibition is a meaningful opportunity to introduce Islamic art through our collaboration with the Museum of Islamic Art, Doha. I hope that visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the Islamic culture that flourished brilliantly across eras and regions, and that the exhibition will inspire reflection on the diversity of human cultures and the value of coexistence.” Curated by Abudaya and curator Kangmi Kwon, associate curator Hyeeun Kwon, and associate curator Youngwoo Kwon of NMK, the exhibition represents a rich collaboration between Qatar and Korea-based experts.**media[384927]**Abudaya delivered a lecture Saturday titled ‘A Journey of Splendour– Presenting Islamic Art from Doha to Seoul’ at the Education and Training Room of the NMK, and offered audiences a deeper understanding of the themes and highlights presented in Islamic Art: A Journey of Splendour. Islamic Art: A Journey of Splendour signals Qatar Museums’ ongoing commitment to cultural exchange and international collaboration through initiatives like Years of Culture, which connect Qatar with partner nations for ongoing exchange.It is also presented as part of Evolution Nation, an 18-month campaign honouring Qatar’s cultural journey over the past 50 years since the founding of the National Museum of Qatar, and 20 years since the founding of Qatar Museums.Curated by Qatar Creates, the national movement positioning Qatar as a global hub for art, culture, and creativity, Evolution Nation highlights both the nation’s cultural milestones and its aspirations for the future. For more information, visit https://mia.org.qa/en/calendar/islamic-art-a-journey-of-splendor/.

South Korea and the United States kicked off a joint cybersecurity exercise Monday to strengthen their combined readiness posture against potential cybersecurity threats from enemies.The Cyber Alliance drills, slated to run through Friday, will take place at a training facility in Maryland, aimed at better bracing for future cyberwarfare, according to South Korea's defense ministry.The training will involve swiftly sharing intelligence on a potential cybersecurity threat under a simulated cyberattack scenario.It marks the second such drills since it was conducted in South Korea's Cyber Operation Command last year, according to Yonhap News Agency.Seoul and Washington will continue to expand cooperation in not only cyber alliance training, but also intelligence sharing for cyberthreats, joint participation in multinational cybersecurity drills and more, the ministry said.

His Excellency the Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad bin Sherida al-Kaabi met with Kim Min-seok, Prime Minister of South Korea in Seoul Wednesday. Discussions during the meeting dealt with energy relations and co-operation between Qatar and Korea and means to enhance them.

North Korea's defence minister vows 'more offensive action' a day after missile testSouth Korea's defence ministry denounces North Korea's missile testNorth Korea criticises US-South Korea security talks, US carrier visit to BusanUS says missile launch highlights North's destabilising effectNorth Korea’s defence minister No Kwang-chol threatened Saturday to take “more offensive action” as he condemned US security talks with Seoul and the arrival of a US aircraft carrier in South Korea.A day earlier, North Korea fired a ballistic missile towards the sea off its east coast, after denouncing on Thursday fresh US sanctions against North Korean individuals and entities that Washington said were involved in cyber-related money-laundering schemes.South Korea’s defence ministry Saturday condemned the missile launch, while saying the North’s criticism of the US-South Korea meeting was regrettable.No criticised a recent visit by US and South Korean defence chiefs to the border between North and South Korea, as well as their subsequent security talks in Seoul, alleging they were conspiring to step up deterrence efforts towards the North and to integrate their nuclear and conventional forces.“This is a stark revelation and an unveiled intentional expression of their hostile nature to stand against the DPRK to the end,” No said, referring to the country’s formal name - the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Tuesday the core of the alliance with Seoul will remain focused on deterring North Korea, although Washington will look at flexibility for US troops stationed in South Korea to operate against regional threats.No also said the visit of the US nuclear-powered aircraft carrier George Washington to South Korea’s southeastern port city of Busan this week following US-South Korean joint air drills with Seoul had escalated tensions on the peninsula.“We will show more offensive action against the enemies’ threat on the principle of ensuring security and defending peace by dint of powerful strength,” No said, according to North Korean state media KCNA.South Korea’s navy said the carrier’s visit was to replenish supplies and grant leave for the crew.While visiting South Korea last week, US President Donald Trump repeated his willingness to sit down with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. No meeting took place, but Trump said he was willing to return to the region to meet Kim.Last week, North Korea also test-fired cruise missiles to the west of the Korean peninsula just as Trump and other leaders were set to gather in South Korea for regional meetings. Regarding the latest missile launch, the US Indo-Pacific Command said on Saturday that it “does not pose an immediate threat to US personnel or territory, or to our allies”. “The missile launch highlights the destabilising impact” of North Korea’s actions, it added.

The South Korean government on Thursday unveiled its proposal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50 percent by 2035 from the 2018 level.In a public hearing, the government unveiled two proposals for the nationally determined contribution (NDC) by 2035, one of which will be submitted to the United Nations, according to (Yonhap) news agency.The first option would require the country to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by a minimum 50 percent and a maximum 60 percent, while the second option calls for a slightly more ambitious goal of reducing emissions by a minimum 53 percent and a maximum 60 percent by the target year, according to the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment.In 2018, South Korea's greenhouse gas emissions reached 742.3 million tons. To decrease emissions by 50 percent from the 2018 level, the country would have to only emit 371.2 million tons in 2035.Last year, Korea's greenhouse gas emissions were estimated at 691.6 million tons, far above the minimum target for 2035.To achieve the 2035 target, the government said it will work to expand the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, while establishing a nationwide next-generation power grid.The government plans to provide emission reduction incentives to private companies to help them manufacture low-carbon products and install emission reduction facilities.Seoul submitted its nationally determined contribution (NDC) for 2030 to the UN in 2021, vowing to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent from the 2018 level.

The National Museum of Korea will open a new permanent exhibition dedicated to Islamic history and culture next month, offering visitors a glimpse into one of the world’s most influential civilisations. In collaboration with the Museum of Islamic Art in Qatar, the Islamic gallery will open Nov 22 on the third floor of the museum’s World Art Gallery. This marks the first time the museum has established a permanent space devoted to Islamic culture.

South Korea's EnergyX, a global leader in end-to-end energy optimisation for buildings and infrastructure, has relocated its global command centre to Qatar as it plans to shift the international headquarters here.The company, which already has made Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) its home, is planning a robotic smart-factory in Qatar as well as a high profile plus-energy building in Qatar that achieves multiple top-tier certifications, as it aims to make the country the global hub from where it invents, manufactures, integrates, and manages its global fleet.An announcement in this regard was made at the Korea-Qatar AI (Artificial Intelligence) Forum hosted by the Korean Embassy in Qatar, KOTRA (Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency), and Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, Qatar.The move formalises a re-architecture of the business with EnergyX consolidating command, engineering, and production into a single hub designed to compress product cycles and co-ordinate deployments from Doha to Asia, Europe, and beyond."Qatar isn’t a testing ground; it’s the centre of operations from which EnergyX will steer the next era of AI or artificial intelligence-defined, net-positive infrastructure," said founder and chief executive officer Sean Park, who along with core command team, relocated to Doha.The Middle East and North Africa chief executive officer and Global Chief Strategy Officer, Jean-Jacques Dandrieux has been based in Doha for the past two years.On the proposed smart robotic factory in Qatar; Park said a DFMA (Design for Manufacture and Assembly)-enabled line with autonomous handling and tightly instrumented quality gates will scale in deliberate phases, prioritising reliability and repeatability over headline throughput."The company’s establishment under the QFC and its ongoing engagement with national stakeholders provide the operating clarity needed to relocate the headquarters and centralise integrations, manufacturing, and service management, he said.By putting Qatar at the centre of its worldwide operations, systems integrations, manufacturing, and R&D; he said it will expand local hiring, deepen collaborations with universities and research institutes, and broaden its intellectual-property portfolio from Doha — positioning Qatar as the origin point for technologies that enable energy-sovereign buildings and districts worldwide."Qatar’s RDI agenda aligns with our deep-tech mandate: an R&D-led programme in AI-powered energy optimisation, geospatial analytics, and robotics-enabled, free-form DFMA manufacturing — so invention, prototyping, and production run on one clock in one place," according to Park.Highlighting that Qatar enables EnergyX to co-locate AI, software, hardware engineering, and manufacturing under a single command structure; he said that removes handoffs and lets the company co-ordinate global rollouts, reliability, and product evolution from a single operating rhythm.The Qatar base is structured to manufacture custom energy systems and ship them globally — with planned logistics via air and sea — and to manage worldwide deployments of EnergyX Zero from a single command centre, according to him.EnergyX will build high-skill teams and collaborate with government, leading Qatari business groups, universities, and research institutes to accelerate technology transfer, specialised training, and workforce development tied directly to the factory and research centre, according to Park.