North Korea's Ongoing Pursuit of Spy Satellites

North Korea claims to have successfully launched its first spy satellite, the Malligyong-1, into orbit, with plans to launch more in the near future. The launch, which is the third attempt this year, has been condemned by the United States, Japan, and South Korea. While South Korean and Japanese officials have not yet verified the satellite's placement in orbit, North Korea asserts that the satellite will enhance its military preparedness against its enemies' "dangerous military moves." The launch comes just before South Korea's planned launch of its first spy satellite, and it is believed that North Korea received technical assistance from Russia. The launch raises tensions and violates multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions.