North Korea fires ballistic missile, drawing regional condemnation

North Korea conducted a ballistic missile test Sunday, firing the weapon into waters east of the Korean Peninsula in a move that escalated tensions in the region. The missile landed outside Japan's exclusive economic zone, though the launch drew immediate concern from neighbouring states and the United States.

South Korea's National Security Council convened an emergency meeting following the test, with officials condemning the launch as a destabilising action. Seoul called on Pyongyang to cease missile activities, which have accelerated over recent months despite international diplomatic efforts.

The launch comes amid heightened military cooperation among the United States, South Korea and Japan, which North Korea has characterised as provocative. The three allies have been coordinating defence responses to what they describe as an increasing threat from the North Korean weapons programme.

North Korea has conducted numerous missile tests this year as it advances its nuclear and ballistic capabilities. Sunday's launch marks the latest in a series of weapons demonstrations that have drawn criticism from the international community and triggered calls for renewed diplomatic engagement to de-escalate the situation on the peninsula.