North Korea has informed Japan that it plans to launch a satellite sometime between May 31 and June 11. Japanese officials believe that the launch will involve a ballistic missile. The rocket is expected to fall in waters near the Yellow Sea, East China Sea, and east of Luzon Island in the Philippines. Japanese Prime Minister Kishida has instructed officials to gather intelligence, remain vigilant, and closely coordinate with allies including the United States and South Korea.
Pyongyang has been increasing its missile launches in recent months, with some triggering emergency warning systems in parts of Japan. In response, Seoul and Tokyo have been working to mend long-frayed ties, including cooperating on North Korea’s military threats.
