North Korea flies warplanes near South Korea, trading demonstrations of power

North Korea flies warplanes near South Korea, trading demonstrations of power

North Korea's military flew a dozen warplanes near its border with South Korea, which prompted it to scramble 30 military planes in response on Thursday.

This military dust-up comes as tension on the Korean Peninsula has increased in recent weeks as North Korea has continued to increase the frequency of its launch missile tests.

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Prior to the fracas in the air, North Korea launched two short-range ballistic missiles toward its eastern waters, and these were in response to the United States's military movements after it launched a nuclear-capable missile over Japan earlier this week.

Following Thursday’s launches by North Korea, the U.S., South Korea, and Japan performed a missile defense exercise in the Sea of Japan.

“This exercise enhances the interoperability of our collective forces and demonstrates the strength of the trilateral relationship with our Japan and Republic of Korea (ROK) allies, which is forward-leaning, reflective of our shared values, and resolute against those who challenge regional stability,” the U.S. Pacific Command statement said.

It has aggressively launched missile tests this year, with more than 40 ballistic and cruise missile tests, leading to increased tension in the region.