North Korea launches ballistic missile, US: 'Aware of the launch'

North Korea launched a short-range ballistic missile into the sea, the first such launch in over a month. Seoul raised its alert level, while Japan and the US condemned the launch. The move comes amid joint military exercises and North Korea's threat to respond to Japan's arming with Tomahawk missiles.

North Korea launched a short-range ballistic missile into the sea, the first such launch in over a month. In Seoul, authorities said surveillance systems detected the launch and the military raised its alert level out of concern for additional launches. The South Korean military said it is sharing the collected information with the United States and Japan, and the three countries continue to analyze flight data and missile characteristics. The US military announced it is aware of the launch and is holding consultations with its allies in the region. The US statement initially did not include further details on the missile type, trajectory, or range, but emphasized ongoing security coordination with Seoul and Tokyo. The launch came ahead of joint military exercises between the US and South Korea, expected to take place later this month. Washington and Seoul claim the exercises are designed to strengthen defense and deterrence capabilities against the North Korean threat. Pyongyang, on the other hand, regularly portrays them as preparation for an invasion and as justification for continuing its weapons development. North Korea has conducted a series of tests this year of short-range ballistic missiles, artillery rockets, and tactical weapons. Its last confirmed military test, in late June, included an upgraded system of 240mm rocket launchers, tactical ballistic missiles, and a 155mm self-propelled gun.