North Korean state media announced the failure of a satellite launch into space on Wednesday after the second stage of the launch malfunctioned, causing it to fall into the sea. The Korean Central News Agency reported that the launch of the new "Chollima-1" rocket carrying the satellite failed due to issues with engine stability and the fuel system.
This was the sixth attempt by the nuclear-armed nation to launch a satellite, and the first since 2016. It was intended to be North Korea's first reconnaissance satellite placed into orbit.
Emergency sirens were heard throughout Seoul around 9:32 PM GMT on Tuesday, as the city issued a warning for citizens to prepare for a possible evacuation.
In Tokyo, the Japanese government issued an emergency warning to residents of southern Okinawa, stating that a missile had been launched from North Korea. Both countries lifted the warnings after no reports of danger or damage were received.
Pyongyang had announced plans to launch its first military reconnaissance satellites between May 31 and June 11 to enhance monitoring of U.S. activities.
