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North Korea is preparing to launch another satellite into orbit, marking its second attempt this year. The launch window has been set for August 24 to 31, although the type of satellite has not been specified. Japan has raised concerns about the potential danger zones, including waters west of the Korean peninsula, the East China Sea, and waters east of the Philippines’ Luzon island, urging vessels to exercise caution. The Japanese Prime Minister’s office has called on North Korea to refrain from the launch and is working with the United States, South Korea, and other concerned parties.

South Korea’s Unification Ministry has also expressed its opposition to the planned launch, stating that North Korea’s use of ballistic missile technology violatesUnited Nations Security Council resolutions. Many observers believe that North Korea’s satellite launches are an attempt to advance its ballistic weapons program under the guise of a civilian program. North Korea’s previous attempt to place a reconnaissance satellite into orbit in May of this year ended in failure.

Meanwhile, South Korea is engaged in a series of exercises to enhance its readiness for a potential incursion by North Korea. North Korea has criticized these exercises, known as the Ulchi Freedom Shield, viewing them as a practice for invasion. The drills were revived this year after being unilaterally canceled in 2018 under the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The Ulchi Freedom Shield includes a nationwide emergency drill that will require vehicle traffic to stop and people to take shelter for a 20-minute civilian drill.

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