South Korea's military stated that North Korea fired an unidentified projectile toward the sea to the east of the Korean peninsula on Thursday.
The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff said they detected the launch of the projectile, though no further details were provided.
Japan's government stated that North Korea had fired what could be a ballistic missile.
The Japanese Defense Ministry stated on the social media platform X that North Korea appeared to have launched a ballistic missile.
Japan's Defense Ministry said there has been no impact on the surrounding areas of Japan following the launch.
Government response in Japan
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi instructed officials to gather and analyze information, confirm the safety of aircraft and ships, and take measures to prepare for unforeseen situations.
Context of recent testing
North Korea has conducted a series of tests this year involving short-range ballistic missiles, artillery rockets, and other tactical weapons.
North Korean state media KCNA reported that the country conducted a weapons test in late June involving an upgraded 240-mm multiple-launch rocket system, tactical ballistic missiles, and a 155-mm self-propelled howitzer.
While KCNA reported tests in late June, other reports state that North Korea last conducted a test of a tactical ballistic missile and new multiple rocket launchers on June 25.
