A North Korean tactical ballistic missile roars off a coastal launch pad in a photo released by KCNA on June 26, when Kim Jong-un observed a series of weapons tests organized by defense research institutions. [Yonhap]
A North Korean tactical ballistic missile roars off a coastal launch pad in a photo released by KCNA on June 26, when Kim Jong-un observed a series of weapons tests organized by defense research institutions. [Yonhap]

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said it detected a ballistic missile fired from the Wonsan area of North Korea into the Donghae at around 6 a.m. Wednesday.

"Our military has strengthened surveillance and alert in preparation for additional launches, while South Korea, the United States and Japan are maintaining full readiness by closely sharing information on the North's ballistic missile," the JCS said.

North Korea had previously fired a single short-range ballistic missile from the Wonsan area into the Donghae at around 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6.

Pyongyang did not report that launch through state media, however, prompting some observers to note the departure from its usual pattern.

South Korea and the United States announced Monday that their joint exercise, Ulchi Freedom Shield, is set to begin Monday, Aug. 17.


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