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North Korea has made a second attempt to launch a space rocket this year, following a failed previous attempt to launch a military satellite. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed the launch, which took place at around 3:50 am local time from Tongchang-ri on the North’s west coast. The projectile flew over waters west of Ieodo, a submerged rock south-west of Jeju Island.

South Korea’s military, in close cooperation with the United States, is maintaining full readiness in response to the launch. The international community is closely monitoring the situation. The launch violates UN sanctions as it involves the use of ballistic technology, which is prohibited for both space launches and missiles.

Japan was the first to detect the launch and reported that the North had fired a suspected ballistic missile. The projectile reportedly flew over Japanese territory, prompting Tokyo to mobilize its defense systems. Japan had been informed by Pyongyang that the launch would take place between August 24 and 31.

The launch comes after recent discussions between leaders from the United States, South Korea, and Japan at Camp David, where North Korea’s nuclear threats were a key topic. Furthermore, joint military drills between Seoul and Washington, known as Ulchi Freedom Shield, commenced earlier this week. These drills are aimed at countering the growing threats posed by North Korea and will run until August 31.

North Korea perceives these drills as potential preparations for an invasion and has previously threatened to take “overwhelming” action in response. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, and tensions on the Korean Peninsula remain high.

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