Japan on Sunday called for a “firm response” from the international community to North Korea’s latest missile test, which it said was a “clear violation” of United Nations Security Council resolutions.
The missile was launched from the Sunan area near Pyongyang, the North Korean capital, at 7:52 a.m. local time, according to the South Korean military. It flew about 800 kilometers (500 miles) and reached an altitude of 2,000 kilometers before landing in the Sea of Japan.
The launch was North Korea’s first since it fired a short-range ballistic missile in March. It comes just days after the Biden administration said it was prepared to meet with North Korea “anywhere, anytime” to discuss denuclearization.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said in a statement that the launch was “a clear violation of UN Security Council resolutions and a serious threat to the peace and security of Japan and the region.”
He called for a “firm response” from the international community and said that Japan would work closely with its allies and partners to address the threat posed by North Korea.
South Korea’s military also condemned the launch, saying it was a “clear violation” of UN Security Council resolutions. The military said it had “strengthened its surveillance and vigilance” and was “taking necessary measures to prepare for any possible additional provocations.”
The United States Indo-Pacific Command said in a statement that it was “aware of the missile launch and consulting closely with our allies and partners.”
The launch comes amid heightened tensions between North Korea and the United States. North Korea has been conducting a series of missile tests in recent months, and the United States has been increasing its military presence in the region.
The Biden administration has said it is open to diplomacy with North Korea, but Pyongyang has not responded to the offer. The administration has also said that it is prepared to use military force if necessary to defend its allies and partners.
The launch is a reminder of the threat posed by North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs. It is unclear what North Korea’s intentions are, but the United States and its allies are watching the situation closely..
