North Korea fires ballistic missiles into sea off Japan

North Korea fired multiple short-range ballistic missiles on May 8, which splashed down in the sea, with none entering Japan's exclusive economic zone, according to Japanese and South Korean defence officials. 

The missiles, which flew up to 800 kilometres, were fired from an area near the eastern coastal city of Wonsan for over an hour, starting at 8:00 a.m. local time, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media

The Japan Coast Guard confirmed that no damage was reported to vessels in the area.

This marks Pyongyang's first known ballistic missile activity since March 10.

Japanese Defence Minister Nakatani Gen condemned the launches as a violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions and a serious threat to regional security. Speaking at a press briefing in Tokyo, Nakatani said Japan had lodged an official protest with North Korea and vowed continued vigilance.

He also said the military is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining readiness against further provocations.

By Sabina Mammadli