In a show of military force, North Korea conducted artillery drills near the disputed sea boundary with South Korea on Saturday, according to officials in Seoul. This comes just a day after similar exercises by the North prompted a response from South Korea with firing drills in the same area.

The back-to-back firing exercises by North Korea are seen as a response to what its leader, Kim Jong Un, perceives as a deepening confrontation led by the United States. Kim has repeatedly called for stronger war readiness in recent times.

Experts believe that North Korea's continued provocative weapons tests are aimed at strengthening its leverage in potential negotiations with the United States, particularly as the country heads into November elections.

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff issued a statement reporting that North Korea fired more than 60 rounds into the waters north of the western sea boundary on Saturday afternoon. In response, South Korea strongly urged North Korea to cease actions that escalate tensions. It also warned that corresponding military measures would be taken if North Korea continues with its artillery drills, which pose a threat to the safety of South Korean nationals.

The situation at the disputed sea boundary remains tense, and it is uncertain how both countries will proceed in the face of increased hostilities.