Pakistan, Jan. 4 -- North Korea launched ballistic missiles on Sunday, coinciding with South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung starting a state visit to China. The launches came hours after the United States captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, raising international concern.

At least two missiles were fired from Pyongyang into waters between the Koreas and Japan, flying approximately 900 to 950 kilometers. Experts suggest the launches are a signal to China, asserting military strength and cautioning against closer ties with South Korea.

Analysts also noted Pyongyang's message that it remains a nuclear and military power, "different from Venezuela," capable of aggressive deterrence. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently called...