“The North has launched an unidentified ballistic missile towards the East Sea,” it said, referring to a body of water also known as the Sea of Japan.
Japan’s defence ministry also said it detected a possible ballistic missile, which landed at 8.08am.
The projectile is believed to have fallen outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone and no damage to ships or planes has been reported, according to a government source.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi instructed officials to gather information and swiftly provide necessary details to the public while ensuring the safety of aircraft and ships and preparing for contingencies, her office said.North Korea last staged a ballistic missile test in November, after US President Donald Trump approved South Korea’s plan to build a nuclear-powered submarine.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (right) inspects tactical guided weapons in production in a photo released on Sunday. Photo: KCNA/Reuters
AloJapan.com