North Korea is increasing its arms testing with the aim of developing more advanced weapons. The country recently conducted its third test of cruise missiles, launching them into the waters off its west coast. South Korea’s military detected the missiles and the data is being analyzed by South Korean and US intelligence agencies. North Korea is not prohibited from testing cruise missiles under UN sanctions, and has already conducted two tests in the past week. This comes as tensions rise on the peninsula and Kim Jong Un works to modernize the country’s military and develop more sophisticated weaponry. North Korea has also recently launched a solid-fuelled hypersonic ballistic missile and a nuclear-capable underwater attack drone. At the same time, Japan, South Korea, and the United States have been conducting joint military exercises, which North Korea sees as invasion rehearsals. Kim has also declared South Korea as his country’s “principal enemy” and has shut down agencies dedicated to reunification and outreach.