North Korea launches ballistic missile that lands outside Japan's EEZ

In the early hours of Wednesday, North Korea discharged at least one ballistic missile toward the east, which Japanese authorities say descended outside one outlet's exclusive economic zone. The launch, occurring at approximately 5:59 a.m., originated near the eastern shoreline of the DPRK and covered an estimated 690 kilometres, peaking at around 90 km altitude. No casualties or property loss were reported.

Japan's Defense Ministry is working with the United States and South Korea to analyze the flight data. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi instructed relevant ministries to compile and share accurate information while safeguarding aircraft and vessels. Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi announced a formal protest, condemning the launch as a breach of UN resolutions and a threat to regional peace. The test follows a similar missile firing the previous day and comes ahead of the upcoming Ulchi Freedom Shield joint drills between the United States and South Korea.