South Korea and Japan: North Korea fires ballistic missile again

North Korea has fired another ballistic missile, according to South Korea and Japan. Such missiles can be equipped with a nuclear warhead. UN resolutions prohibit the self-proclaimed nuclear power from carrying out such tests.

North Korea has fired another ballistic missile, according to South Korea and Japan. South Korea said it was launched on Sunday from the east coast. Shortly after the first report of the launch, the Japanese coast guard said that a projectile suspected to be the rocket had fallen into the sea. Japanese broadcaster NHK reported that the missile fell outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone.

UN resolutions ban Missile programs

The self-proclaimed nuclear power North Korea is prohibited by UN resolutions from launching or even testing ballistic missiles of any range. Such missiles can also be equipped with a nuclear warhead.

The country last tested an intercontinental ballistic missile in December that could theoretically reach the USA. North Korea carried out its first nuclear test in 2006. In November, the country also launched its first military spy satellite into space.

Relations between North and South Korea are currently at a low point. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un wants to expand weapons development, including tactical nuclear weapons. In response, South Korea and the United States have increased defense cooperation and held joint military exercises.