The missile launch comes as a response to the recent deployment of major US naval assets in South Korea, heightening concerns over regional stability and security.
In a provocative move, North Korea fired at least one ballistic missile into its eastern sea, as reported by South Korea's military. The missile launch comes amidst a recent streak of weapons testing, which is believed to be in protest of the United States' decision to deploy major naval assets to South Korea as a show of force.
The South Korea Joint Chiefs of Staff did not immediately disclose the exact location from where the missile was launched or its flight range. However, the launch was observed shortly after the US nuclear-propelled submarine, USS Annapolis, arrived at a port on Jeju Island, adding to the display of military strength by the allied forces to counter North Korea's nuclear threats, according to AP.
This follows last week's deployment of the USS Kentucky, the first US nuclear-armed submarine to visit South Korea since the 1980s. In response to the USS Kentucky's arrival, North Korea conducted test-firings of ballistic and cruise missiles, demonstrating its capability to potentially launch nuclear strikes against South Korea and deploy US naval vessels.