North Korea has test-fired a submarine-launched ballistic missile, according to the US and South Korea.
The KN-11 missile was launched off the North’s eastern coast and flew about 300 miles before falling into the Sea of Japan.
Japanese PM Shinzo Abe said the missile fell inside his country’s air defence identification zone, calling it an “unforgivable, reckless act” which “poses a grave threat to Japan’s security”.
Submarine-launched ballistic missiles are of particular concern because of the mobility of submarines and the ease with which launch preparation can remain undetected.
North Korea is banned by the UN from any use of ballistic or nuclear technology. But in recent months it has carried out repeated missile launches, and is believed to be close to conducting its fifth test of a nuclear device.
The US State Department said it “strongly condemned” the missile tests and would raise concerns at the UN.
It comes as South Korea and the US begin annual military drills, which routinely anger Pyongyang.
North Korea has also seen several high-profile defections, including its deputy ambassador to the UK, Thae Yong-ho.
