Residents of Pyongyang, Seoul comment on test of new missile
Residents of North Korea’s capital, Pyongyang, expressed pride Monday about their country’s launch of a new longer-range missile reportedly capable of carrying a nuclear bomb. Some outside analysts believe the Hwasong-12 missile, if proven in further tests, could help North Korea achieve its goal of developing missiles with nuclear warheads capable of reaching the U. S. mainland.
While the outside world condemns North Korea’s missile and nuclear tests, inside the country, state media say the weapons are needed to defend against a perceived threat from the United States and South Korea .
The pride in North Korea contrasts with concern in Seoul, the capital of South Korea, which condemned Sunday’s launch and called it a serious violation of U. N. Security Council resolutions prohibiting North Korea from conducting long-range missile tests.
Here are some quotes from residents of the two capitals:
PYONGYANG RESIDENT CHOE CHOL JIN
« I heard that our scientists and technicians have done a successful test of a Hwasong-12 rocket which was developed in our own way, by ourselves, and that makes me feel proud.
