SEOUL/TOKYO – North Korea launched what appears to be a ballistic missile on Thursday, according to the defence ministries of both Japan and South Korea. The launch comes at a time when relations between North Korea and South Korea are getting worse.
What Happened
South Korea’s defence ministry said an unknown object was fired from North Korea toward the sea off its east coast. The ministry did not give more details, including what kind of weapon it was. The news agency AP first reported the information.
Later, another news agency, AFP, reported that around 10 short-range ballistic missiles may have been fired. AFP said it got this information from local media. However, this report has not been confirmed, so it is not yet clear how many missiles were launched.
A ballistic missile is a type of weapon that is shot high into the air and then falls back down toward the ground in a curved path. Short-range ones travel a shorter distance than the long-range types.
Japan Responds
Japan’s defence ministry also shared the news quickly. In a post on X, it said an object that might be a ballistic missile had been launched from North Korea. It promised to give updates as soon as it had more information.
In a second post, the ministry said it believed the object had already fallen. This suggests it did not fly toward Japan.
Japan’s Prime Minister’s Office then listed several steps the government is taking. These include:
- Collecting and studying information about the launch
- Keeping aircraft, ships and other vehicles safe
- Taking extra care to get ready in case something more serious happens
The office also said it is important to give the public clear and correct information at the right time.
Why Tensions Are High
The missile launch comes after a tense few weeks between the two Koreas. Last month, landmines exploded and hurt three South Korean soldiers. The blasts happened on September 21.
South Korea says North Korea placed the mines on the southern side of the military demarcation line. This is the line that separates the two countries. North Korea says it is not to blame. It also warned that it would strike back if it is provoked.
Last week, North Korea announced two new moves. First, it said it would start playing propaganda broadcasts again along the front line. These are loud messages and sounds meant to influence people on the other side. Second, it said it would place new weapons systems near the border, which is already one of the most heavily guarded places in the world.
In response, South Korea suggested holding talks. The goal would be to make the border line clear so that both sides do not accidentally end up in a clash. So far, North Korea has not answered the offer.
What Comes Next
Officials in Japan and South Korea are still gathering details about the launch. More information is expected in the coming hours and days. For now, both countries are watching North Korea closely as they wait to see what happens next.
