According to South Korean and Japanese officials, North Korea launched a ballistic missile into the sea on Sunday in what was apparently its eighth round of weapon tests this year.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff reported that the launch took place without giving further details. Japan’s Defense Ministry confirmed that North Korea may have launched a ballistic missile.
Japan’s Coast Guard issued a safety warning about maritime safety. It stated that an object possibly ballistic missile was launched from North Korea, and it likely landed in the ocean. Vessels were advised to avoid objects falling from the sky and to notify authorities.
Seven rounds of missile testing were conducted by North Korea last month in an effort to improve its weapon technology and press the Biden administration for concessions such as lifting economic sanctions.
After the Winter Olympics in China, North Korea stopped testing activities. China is its last major ally and economic conduit. Experts had predicted that North Korea would resume testing and launch larger weapons following the Olympics.