North Korea launches possible ballistic missile. North Korea fired a possible ballistic missile into the sea off its east coast, according to South Korean and Japanese officials. The launch comes just days after US President Joe Biden visited South Korea and Japan.

North Korea launched a possible ballistic missile on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, according to South Korean and Japanese officials. The missile was fired from the North's capital region and flew about 360 kilometers (225 miles) before landing in the waters of the Korean Peninsula's east coast. The launch was condemned by the United States, South Korea, and Japan. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the launch was "a clear violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions" and that it "threatens regional and international peace and security." South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol said the launch was a "serious provocation" and that it would "respond strongly" to any further North Korean provocations. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said the launch was "extremely regrettable" and that it "will not be tolerated." The launch is the latest in a series of weapons tests by North Korea this year. In January, North Korea launched a Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), its largest missile ever. The launch was the first time North Korea had tested an ICBM since 2017. North Korea's missile tests are a violation of UN Security Council resolutions, which ban the country from developing or testing ballistic missiles. The United States and its allies have imposed sanctions on North Korea in response to its missile tests. The launch comes just days after US President Joe Biden visited South Korea and Japan. During his visit, Biden reaffirmed the US commitment to defending its allies in the region. He also warned North Korea against further provocations. It is unclear what the purpose of the latest missile launch was. Some experts believe that North Korea is trying to pressure the United States and its allies to ease sanctions. Others believe that North Korea is testing its weapons capabilities in preparation for a future conflict. The launch of the possible ballistic missile is a serious development that raises tensions in the region. It is important to closely monitor the situation and to be prepared for further provocations from North Korea.