North Korea test-launches ballistic missiles, South Korea and Japan say
The first launch came was at about 3 p.m. from the port city of Wonson.
NEW YORK and LONDON -- North Korea test-launched two ballistic missiles into the Sea of Japan on Sunday afternoon, South Korea and Japan said.
The first launch came at about 3 p.m. local time from the port city of Wonson, where the North maintains a military base, according to a statement from South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff.
"Our military has strengthened surveillance and alert posture in preparation for additional launches," the statement said. "Korea, the United States, and Japan are closely sharing information related to the 'North Korean ballistic missile' and maintaining a full state of readiness."
The ballistic missile flew some 450 km, or about 280 miles, South Korea said, adding that officials in Seoul are working with their U.S. counterparts on "a detailed analysis of its exact specifications."
The office of the prime minister of Japan issued a warning on social media, saying, "North Korea has launched a suspected ballistic missile."
Japan's Ministry of Defense later issued a second warning, saying another launch was detected shortly before 6 p.m. local time. The second launch flew from North Korea's east coast toward the northeast, flying about 590 km, or about 366 miles, and falling into the Sea of Japan, the ministry said.
"North Korea's series of actions, including the repeated launches of ballistic missiles and other projectiles to date, threaten the peace and security of our country, the region, and the international community," the ministry said on social media.