North Korea missile launch sparks confusion in Japan

North Korea’s missile launch on Thursday caused panic and confusion in northern Japan, with residents being told to evacuate immediately. However, the evacuation order was retracted within half an hour after it was confirmed that the missile did not land near the island. 

Tensions have been rising in the region as North Korea has already fired 27 missiles this year. The missile launched on Thursday flew about 1,000 km, which South Korea’s military called a “grave provocation.” Details about the weapon tested have not been made public yet. 

Japanese coast guards said the missile had splashed into waters to the east of North Korea, and schools in Hokkaido delayed their start times, while some train services were suspended. 

The launch came after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ordered his military to adopt a “more practical and offensive” manner in war deterrence. The country has been working to increase its nuclear arsenal and build more sophisticated weapons, and it has also criticised joint military exercises between the US and South Korea, accusing them of escalating tensions.