South Korea apologies after missile launch
South Korea’s military has issued an apology after a failed missile launch during a drill with the United States sparked alarm among residents of Gangneung.
Residents in the coastal city reported hearing an explosion and seeing a fire overnight.
There were no casualties, but the military failed to acknowledge the incident for seven hours, leaving many residents afraid of what could have happened.
The launch was a response to North Korea – who fired a missile over Japan early on Tuesday.
The missile launched over Japan prompted a show of force from the US, Japan and South Korea – which carried out military deals.
The South Korean military confirmed that one of their missiles failed soon after it was launched and crashed – this was separate from the ones it launched with the US.
The military said the missile carried a warhead but did not explode, they apologised for any worry caused.
Many residents were left not knowing what had happened for seven hours. They reported seeing a bright light, and an explosion and then were left in the dark for hours – many posting on social media wondering what had happened.