Taepodong

Taepodong is a designation used to indicate a series of North Korean ballistic missiles. The name "Taepodong" comes from the village of Taepodong-ri, where North Korea's missile program was first established. The Taepodong missile series includes the Taepodong-1 and Taepodong-2 missiles.

Taepodong-1

The Taepodong-1 is a multi-stage missile, which was first launched by North Korea in 1998. The missile is believed to have a range of approximately 2,500 kilometers, which would allow it to reach parts of Japan and other countries in the region. The Taepodong-1 is thought to be based on the Scud and Nodong missiles, which were developed by the Soviet Union and North Korea, respectively.

Taepodong-2

The Taepodong-2 is a more advanced missile, with a potential range of up to 6,000 kilometers. This would put parts of Alaska and Hawaii within its reach. The Taepodong-2 is a three-stage missile, and it is believed to be capable of carrying a nuclear warhead. The missile was first tested in 2006, but the test was considered a failure. Subsequent tests have been more successful, but the missile's capabilities are still a matter of debate among experts.

International response

The development and testing of the Taepodong missiles have been met with international condemnation. The United Nations Security Council has passed several resolutions calling on North Korea to cease its missile and nuclear programs. In response, North Korea has often escalated its missile tests, leading to a cycle of sanctions and provocations.

See also

• North Korean missile program
• Missile Technology Control Regime
• List of North Korean missile tests