South Korean defense minister Ahn Gyu-back said the Hyunmoo-5 missile, which carries a heavy warhead, will enter operational deployment by the end of this year.
Published: October 20, 2025 7:48 PM IST
Hyunmoo-5 missile: South Korea has announced the deployment of its ‘monster’ Hyunmoo-5 missile, designed to target fortified bunkers used by the North Korean leadership, including the ones used by its Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un. According to South Korean defense minister Ahn Gyu-back, the Hyunmoo-5 missile, which carries a heavy warhead, will enter operational deployment by the end of this year.
When will South Korea deploy Hyunmoo-5 missile?
In a interview with Yonhap News, Ahn Gyu-back said the Hyunmoo-5 is currently undergoing integration and will enter active deployment by the end of 2025. The Defense Minister revealed that the “monster missile”, is capable of carrying a warhead weighing up to 8 tons, and is designed to strike fortified targets, such as underground command bunkers used by the North Korean leadership.
According to Ahn, the Hyunmoo-5 is designed to serve as a deterrent against North Korea’s aggression without having to resort to nuclear weapons.
How powerful is Hyunmoo-5 missile?
Unveiled during last year’s Armed Forces Day, the Hyunmoo-5 ballistic missile is part of South Korea’s Korean Massive Punishment and Retaliation (KMPR) framework, which is designed to deter North Korean aggression without the use of nuclear weapons.
Ahn claimed a barrage of 15 to 20 high-powered missiles like the Hyunmoo-5 could inflict damage equal to or greater than that of tactical nuclear weapons, making it an extremely effective deterrent, comparable to nuclear weapons. The Hyunmoo-5 is a key pillar of South Korea’s three-pronged strategy, along with the kill chain and KAMD (Korea Air and Missile Defense), he said.
Why South Korea is boosting its missile arsenal?
The South Korean Defense Minister said the Hyunmoo-5 is a response to North Korea’s growing missile arsenal, especially its intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), including the recently unveiled Hwasong-20 nuclear-capable ICBM.
Ahn stressed that his government is working on plans to increase both the range and payload of its missile systems as part of its strategy to improve defense posture and strategic deterrence. “We will continue to strengthen our defense preparedness by increasing the number of next-generation missile systems.”
Earlier this month, North Korea showcased its expansive missile arsenal, including its new Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), as the country’s military establishment marked its 8oth anniversary with a grand parade presided by Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un.
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