South Korea on Thursday conducted the first test launch of a domestically developed hypersonic glide vehicle, with President Lee Jae Myung observing the test. The government described the development as an important step in strengthening the country's conventional defence capabilities. The test was conducted to assess key technologies required for the advanced system, including its ability to maintain controlled flight at very high speeds.

According to South Korean authorities, the vehicle successfully separated from its booster after reaching the planned altitude and completed its intended flight path. It then descended to a lower altitude and carried out planned changes in direction before accurately reaching the designated target point. Officials said the test was designed to verify the performance of the vehicle's guidance, control and thermal-protection technologies.

The test involved a hypersonic glide vehicle, a system that is accelerated by a booster before separating and continuing its flight at lower altitude. South Korea's presidential office described the technology as a potential strategic asset because of its speed and ability to follow less predictable flight paths. The government said further development would be required before the system becomes operational.

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The test comes amid heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula and follows a recent North Korean test of a hypersonic missile. North Korea has continued developing its missile capabilities, while Seoul has been seeking to strengthen its own conventional defence systems. The latest South Korean test therefore carries significance within the broader security competition between the two Koreas.

President Lee, who witnessed the test, said South Korea needed to strengthen its security through its own capabilities and pledged government support for the development and eventual deployment of advanced defence technologies. He also urged researchers not to stop with the successful test but to continue improving the system. The government has presented the programme as part of efforts to strengthen national defence capabilities.

Following the hypersonic weapon test, Lee also inspected South Korea's Hyunmoo-5 surface-to-surface missile, according to the presidential office. The government said the broader focus remained on developing advanced conventional defence capabilities. The latest test marks a significant stage in South Korea's effort to develop its own hypersonic technology as regional military tensions continue.

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