North Korea launched a ballistic missile into the sea east of the Korean Peninsula early Saturday morning, according to South Korean military officials. The missile was fired from the Wonsan area and reportedly traveled over 700 kilometers before landing in the waters, South Korea’s Yonhap news agency reported.

In response to the launch, South Korea’s National Security Office convened an emergency meeting to assess the situation. Officials urged North Korea to halt further provocations that escalate regional tensions. The missile test also prompted swift communication between allies, with representatives from the foreign ministries of Japan, South Korea, and the United States holding telephone consultations to coordinate their response.

Japanese authorities described the projectile as a ballistic missile, according to earlier statements from the Japanese Defence Ministry. The latest launch marks a continuation of North Korea’s ongoing weapons testing despite international calls to restrain such activities.

The missile flight came amid heightened alert across East Asia, with neighboring countries closely monitoring Pyongyang’s military developments. The move further complicates diplomatic efforts aimed at curbing North Korea’s missile and nuclear programs.