Sanctions target N. Korean satellites
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Loading... - Miguel Santos
- 21 Mar 2023
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S. Korean ban aimed at North’s plan to test missiles amid higher inter-Korean tension
South Korea on Tuesday revealed fresh sanctions banning items linked to North Korea’s satellite development, pushing for tighter curbs on its nuclear and missile programs amid the isolated country’s search for better “nuclear counterattack capabilities.”
The Foreign Ministry in Seoul announced a watchlist of 77 items -- including antennas, optical devices, solar panels and camera power supplies -- to prevent Pyongyang from importing such materials either directly or indirectly via a third country to build missiles. The North simulated a nuclear attack on the South and the US over the weekend.
“Export curbs have taken place at the international level. … But we are the first to specifically target North Korea’s satellite programs,” said Lee Joon-il, director general for North Korean affairs at the ministry. Many suspect that the reclusive regime is defying international sanctions banning ballistic missile launches, and uses satellite plans as a cover for advancing its missile technology.
A senior ministry official said the list widens blacklisted items by banning even low-grade materials -- non-high-tech equipment often used by military -- that ordinary people might not be aware have the potential to be used for missiles. Read More…
