North Korea launched a short-range ballistic missile into the sea off its east coast on Sunday, according to statements from Japan’s defense ministry. South Korean authorities also confirmed that the projectile, described as “unidentified,” was fired from the vicinity of Wonsan, a coastal city in North Korea.

The missile reportedly landed outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone, close to the country’s eastern maritime boundary, according to Japanese public broadcaster NHK. The South Korean presidential office quickly responded by convening a national security council meeting to assess the situation and discuss potential repercussions.

This launch marks the second missile test by North Korea in just one week, continuing a recent pattern of escalated weapons testing despite ongoing diplomatic efforts. The moves come amid a backdrop of uneasy international negotiations, with U.S. President Donald Trump having recently scaled back large-scale military exercises with South Korea. This reduction appeared to be aimed at encouraging renewed diplomatic engagement with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

The continued missile tests pose ongoing regional security concerns, even as diplomatic channels remain open. Both Japan and South Korea maintain tight coordination on defense matters and have urged North Korea to cease provocations that undermine peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely.