Kwangmyngsng1

Kwangmyongsong-1 (Korean: 광명성; meaning "Bright Star" or "Light Star") was the first satellite launched by North Korea. The launch took place on August 31, 1998, from the Musudan-ri launch facility. North Korea announced that Kwangmyongsong-1 was a scientific and broadcasting satellite intended for peaceful purposes.

However, various international observers and governments, including the United States, South Korea, and Japan, expressed skepticism about the nature of the launch. They pointed to the rocket used, the Paektusan-1, as being derived from ballistic missile technology. Following the launch, there was significant debate about whether the satellite actually reached orbit and if it transmitted any signals. Initial reports from North Korea claimed a successful orbit and signal transmission, but these claims were widely disputed.

Most external analyses concluded that the launch failed, with the rocket likely breaking apart in the upper atmosphere or failing to achieve a stable orbit. Some sources suggested that the payload may have been a dummy or a failed satellite. The Kwangmyongsong-1 launch, regardless of its success, was a significant event, marking North Korea's increasing assertiveness in space technology and further fueling international concerns about its missile programs. It was the first of several satellite launches by North Korea under the Kwangmyongsong program.