North Korea constructs missile base disguised as golf course near Pyongyang

North Korea has reportedly built a new long-range missile base near Pyongyang, disguised as a golf course, according to the U.S.-based North Korea-focused media outlet NK News on March 6.

Citing satellite imagery analysis by experts at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS) at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies, NK News reported that a new missile base is under construction in the Yokpo District, south of Pyongyang.

The site is located adjacent to the former grounds of the luxurious Yokpo Palace Residence, which once belonged to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and was reportedly demolished last year.

Satellite Imagery Reveals New Missile Base in Yokpo District

According to analysts, North Korea laid concrete along a valley in the area last summer to facilitate the transport of missile launchers. The site was then landscaped with grass, circular putting greens, and sand bunkers, giving it the appearance of a golf course.

Additionally, a large building was identified at the site. Researcher Sam Lair, who participated in the analysis, noted that the structure stands approximately 36 meters high, making it suitable for use as a missile checkout facility where engineers can erect and inspect missiles.

Facility Can Accommodate Various Missile Systems

North Korea’s new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Hwasong-19, is mounted on a transporter erector launcher (TEL) measuring approximately 30 meters in length. Older models, such as the Hwasong-18 ICBM and the new intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM), are shorter, meaning the facility could theoretically accommodate all of North Korea’s missile systems.

Satellite images also reveal seven circular concrete pads in the valley, with analysts suggesting that two centrally positioned pads are likely designated as launch sites.

More Than Just a Test Site: Analysts Point to Operational Intent

These structural elements indicate that the facility is not merely a test site but rather an operational base for storing and launching ICBMs and IRBMs, according to NK News.

Moreover, analysts pointed out that the widening and straightening of roads leading from the storage and assembly buildings to the valley’s launch pads and a major highway to the south suggest that the area has been optimized for the movement of large and heavy TELs.

New Site Resembles Other Disguised Launch Facilities

The new Yokpo missile base is believed to resemble other recently observed disguised launch sites in North Korea.

In March 2023, North Korea constructed a reinforced circular missile launch pad in the Samsok District, east of Pyongyang, covering it with a golf course-like landscape. The country later conducted test launches of the Hwasong-18 and Hwasong-19 missiles from that site.

However, as of now, no missile tests have been detected at the new Yokpo facility, according to analysts.

By Mooyoung Lee   [lee.mooyoung@koreadaily.com]