South Korea's first military spy satellite was launched via SpaceX's Falcon 9.

Intensification of the peninsula's space race after North Korea's recent satellite launch.

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Successful orbit acquisition marks South Korea's inaugural domestically developed spy satellite.

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The satellite aims to monitor North Korea, with plans for four more spy satellites by 2025.

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Orbiting at 400-600km, the satellite can detect objects as small as 30cm.

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South Korea asserts a top-five global satellite technology ranking.

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The launch is a strategic response to North Korea's satellite success.

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Emphasis on the importance of reconnaissance in potential conflicts is highlighted.

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