Why Kim Jong Un rapid-fires missiles as world fights coronavirus

North Korean leader seeks to protect regime by showing military achievements

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Kim Jong Un is trying to maintain discipline in North Korea's 1.2 million-man military by treating it to displays of advanced missile technology. (KCNA/REUTERS)

HIROSHI MINEGISHI, Nikkei senior staff writer

TOKYO -- North Korea test-fired ballistic missiles four times in March as the world struggled to deal with the new coronavirus. Each event involved two or more launches, with all of the missiles landing in the Sea of Japan. Analysts are trying to figure out what is behind North Korea's increased missile activity while the country is on high alert for COVID-19.

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