Seoul says it believes North Korea fired three short - range missiles earlier this week . Short - range missile tests are common and cause less concern than longer - range ones . The tests occurred nearly a month after the death of the North Korean leader Kim Jong Il . Seoul , South Korea ( CNN ) -- North Korea apparently test-launched three short-range missiles this week , the South Korean Defense Ministry said Friday , an indication that the reclusive state 's military is operating normally after a leadership transition . His youngest son and designated successor , Kim Jong Un , has become the new leader .
Seoul says it believes North Korea fired three short - range missiles earlier this week . Short - range missile tests are common and cause less concern than longer - range ones . The tests occurred nearly a month after the death of the North Korean leader Kim Jong Il . His youngest son and designated successor , Kim Jong Un , has become the new leader .