North Korea fired what is believed to be a ballistic missile into the sea to the east of the Korean Peninsula on Sunday, according to Japan’s defense ministry. South Korea’s defense ministry also reported that Pyongyang launched an “unidentified projectile”. The missile reportedly landed outside of Japan’s exclusive economic zone, as stated by Japanese public broadcaster NHK.
The launch follows a statement released a day prior through state media, wherein North Korea dismissed a resolution from the UN nuclear watchdog concerning its nuclear program.
Tensions have been escalating in the region, with Pyongyang recently condemning a US-led naval drill involving South Korea and Japan that took place near Guam from August 29 to September 10.
On Friday, Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of leader Kim Jong Un, heavily criticized the US-led military exercises, blaming them for the “ever-worsening” situation on the Korean Peninsula. She further emphasized that North Korea would not change its course in strengthening its nuclear capabilities