Story perspectives

South Korea Unveils 'Monster Missile' to Counter North Korea

1/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

South Korea has started deploying the Hyunmoo-5 ballistic missile, nicknamed the "monster missile," to deter North Korea.
The Hyunmoo-5 can carry an eight-tonne warhead and target deeply buried facilities, including command bunkers.
Full deployment is expected by 2030.
Lee Il-woo of the Korea Defence Network says the Hyunmoo-5 has strategic significance because North Korea's hardened sites are not easily neutralized, and interception remains unlikely.

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Story summary

South Korea has started deploying the Hyunmoo-5 ballistic missile, nicknamed the "monster missile," to deter North Korea.
The Hyunmoo-5 can carry an eight-tonne warhead and target deeply buried facilities, including command bunkers.
Full deployment is expected by 2030.
Lee Il-woo of the Korea Defence Network says the Hyunmoo-5 has strategic significance because North Korea's hardened sites are not easily neutralized, and interception remains unlikely.