North Korea's Failed Satellite Launch Triggers J-Alert in Okinawa

May 27, 2024, 02:05 PM

North Korea has notified Japan and the International Maritime Organization of its plan to launch a reconnaissance satellite between May 27 and June 4, targeting the Yellow Sea and Luzon Island. The Japan Coast Guard issued navigational warnings, and Japan demanded the cancellation of the launch. On May 27, North Korea fired a projectile, triggering Japan's J-Alert system and prompting residents in Okinawa Prefecture to take shelter. The projectile, initially believed to be a ballistic missile, exploded shortly after launch. South Korea's military confirmed the launch was an attempt to deploy a military spy satellite, which failed due to a malfunction in the rocket's liquid fuel engine. Debris from the failed launch, including multiple fragments, was found in North Korean waters.