North Korea Fires Ballistic Missiles, Sparking Regional Condemnation

North Korea test-launched two short-range ballistic missiles on Tuesday afternoon, according to South Korean and Japanese officials. The missiles were fired from the Pyongyang area around 4 p.m. local time.

The projectiles traveled approximately 350 kilometers (217 miles) before landing in the Sea of Japan, also known as the East Sea.

Japan's Ministry of Defense stated that the launches violate U.N. Security Council resolutions and pose a serious safety concern for the Japanese populace.

Japan Condemns Action

Japan has formally protested and condemned the action, citing the violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions. The Japanese Ministry of Defense emphasized the serious safety concerns posed to its citizens.

South Korea Monitors, Affirms Readiness

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff tracked the launch, sharing intelligence with Japan and the United States. South Korea's military affirmed its close monitoring of North Korean developments and readiness to respond to provocations. This readiness is maintained in conjunction with a robust South Korea–U.S. combined defense posture.

Timing Amid U.S. Official's Visit and Rising Tensions

The missile test occurred hours after Elbridge Colby, the U.S. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, concluded his visit to South Korea and arrived in Japan.

Tensions between Seoul and Pyongyang have recently been elevated due to North Korea's accusations of South Korean drone intrusions into its airspace in January and September.