North Korea apparently launched a ballistic missile in the direction of the Sea of Japan, the Japan Coast Guard reports.

The missile fell outside Japan's exclusive economic zone in the Sea of Japan, according to Japanese public television.

There are no reports of destruction.

Japanese observers urge the ships in the region that if fragments of missiles are found, not to approach them, but to contact the authorities immediately.

The crisis staff began working under the office of Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to collect and analyze information about Pyongyang's missile launch.

Also, Ishiba ordered respective ministries and agencies to provide immediate information to the local population about the situation and ensure the safety of shipping and civil aviation in the region.

This was North Korea's first missile launch in 2025. The last time Pyongyang launched a missile was on November 5 last year.