North Korea has formally notified the Japanese coastguard of its plan to launch a satellite as early as Wednesday, despite warnings from South Korea and multiple UN resolutions. The launch window has been set between November 22 and December 1. This would be North Korea’s third attempt to put a spy satellite into orbit.

South Korea has strongly urged North Korea to halt preparations for the launch, with the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff warning that they will take necessary measures to ensure the safety of their people if the launch proceeds. The UN Security Council has repeatedly called for North Korea to cease its nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

Experts have highlighted the technological overlap between satellite launches and the development of ballistic missiles. Reports suggest that North Korea has been exchanging arms with Russia in exchange for space technology, and Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed willingness to assist North Korea in satellite development.

Successfully launching a spy satellite would enhance North Korea’s intelligence-gathering capabilities, particularly over South Korea, and provide vital information in potential military conflicts. North Korea has conducted numerous weapons tests this year, defying warnings from the US, South Korea, and their allies.

Recently, North Korea claimed successful ground tests of a “new type” of solid-fuel engine for its banned intermediate-range ballistic missiles. The country continues to disregard the unstable security environment and is intent on advancing its military capabilities.

Despite international concerns and restrictions, North Korea remains determined in its pursuit of satellite technology and the development of advanced military systems.