North Korea fired multiple ballistic missiles into the East Sea on January 4, 2026, ahead of South Korea’s leader’s visit to China.

North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles into the East Sea on January 4, 2026, marking its first missile tests of the year. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed the launches, which occurred off the country’s east coast. The tests come ahead of a planned visit by South Korea’s leader to China. No damage or injuries were reported.