‘I’m scared’: South Koreans report UFO sighting after secret rocket launch

The military on Friday test-fired a solid-fuelled rocket without notifying the general public because it involved sensitive military security issues

The launch set South Korean social media abuzz, with some saying they saw mysterious lights, and others speculating it was a drone light show or a supernatural phenomenon

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A light trail is seen in Goyang, South Korea, on December 30, 2022. Photo: AP

Published: 10:40pm, 30 Dec 2022Updated: 10:51pm, 30 Dec 2022

South Korea’s military confirmed it test-fired a solid-fuelled rocket on Friday after its unannounced launch triggered brief public scare of a suspected UFO appearance or a North Korean missile launch.

The Defence Ministry said in a statement that the rocket launch was part of its efforts to build a space-based surveillance capability and bolster its defence posture.

It said it did not notify the general public of the launch in advance because it involved sensitive military security issues.

A twisty tendril of vapour in white-to-red ombre could be seen snaking behind a bright white light in parts of South Korea’s sky Friday evening.

South Korean social media and internet sites were abuzz with messages by citizens who said they saw a soaring object, rainbow-coloured vapour trail or other mysterious lights. Some also posted photos and videos.

“What is this? Is this a UFO? I’m scared,” said one Twitter user. Another said they suspected it was a North Korean missile launch and worried about a war. Others suspected it was a drone light show or a supernatural phenomenon.

South Korean emergency offices and police received hundreds of citizens’ reports of witnessing of a suspicious flying object and mysterious lights across the country, according to local media.