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The waters east of the Philippines’ Luzon island, along with the Yellow Sea and East China Sea, have been designated as “danger areas” for North Korea’s upcoming satellite launch, according to Pyongyang. The launch is set to take place between August 24 and 31, and has received condemnation from Tokyo and Seoul, as it violates UN sanctions prohibiting the North from tests using ballistic technology.

In response, Tokyo has mobilized ships and its PAC-3 missile defense system to prepare for the possibility of the launch landing in Japanese territory. South Korea has stated that this launch would be considered “an illegal act.” Experts note that there is significant technological overlap between intercontinental ballistic missiles and space launch capabilities, suggesting that North Korea’s intentions may extend beyond the peaceful exploration of space.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan urged North Korea to cancel the launch and stated that his country is working with South Korea and the United States to gather more information. In May, Pyongyang launched what it claimed was its first military reconnaissance satellite, but the rocket carrying it failed and plummeted into the sea shortly after takeoff.

Pyongyang’s new launch plan coincides with the start of the annual joint military drills between South Korea and the United States. These exercises, known as Ulchi Freedom Shield, are designed to counter threats from North Korea and will run until August 31. North Korea views such drills as rehearsals for invasion and has repeatedly threatened to take “overwhelming” action in response.

Suspected North Korean hackers have targeted the exercises, launching email attacks on South Korean contractors. North Korea’s state news agency has condemned the drills, warning that if they involve a “nuclear provocation,” the possibility of a “thermonuclear war” on the Korean peninsula will become more likely.

North Korea’s announcement of the satellite launch comes after discussions between leaders from the United States, South Korea, and Japan at Camp David. The growing nuclear threats from North Korea were a key topic of discussion. South Korea’s spy agency suggests that Pyongyang may launch a reconnaissance satellite ahead of the 75th anniversary of the regime’s founding on September 9.

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