North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles towards the sea off its east coast on Monday, according to South Korea's military. The launch was also confirmed by Japan's government and coast guard, who reported a projectile believed to be a ballistic missile.
The projectile landed outside Japan's exclusive economic zone, according to NHK broadcaster. NTV broadcaster, citing a Japanese government official, identified the projectile as a short-range ballistic missile.
South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff reported the launch of several suspected short-range ballistic missiles from near Pyongyang, the North Korean capital. Further details were not provided.
This launch coincides with a meeting between South Korea's top military officer, Admiral Kim Myung-soo, and the commander of U.S. Space Command, General Stephen Whiting. The meeting focused on North Korea's reconnaissance satellite development and growing military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow.
Following a summit between the two countries' leaders in September, North Korea has been suspected of supplying arms and munitions to Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, although both countries deny the claim.
North Korea is believed to be preparing for another spy satellite launch, following the successful launch of a reconnaissance satellite in November. Last week, North Korea reported testing a strategic cruise missile with a large warhead and a new anti-aircraft missile.
In April, North Korea tested a new hypersonic missile as part of its development of solid-fueled missiles for all ranges of its arsenal.
North Korea's actions defy a ban by the United Nations Security Council on developing ballistic missiles. The country rejects the Council's resolutions, claiming they infringe on its sovereign right to self-defense.