Japan protested to the DPRK because of the launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile

This is reported by the Ministry of Defense of Japan.

"North Korea's actions, including also previous frequent launches of ballistic missiles, threaten the peace and security of our country, the region and the international community," RIA Novosti reported.

The ministry added that the launch of the missile violates the relevant resolutions of the UN Security Council.

"Our country has strongly protested and strongly condemned North Korea," it said.

Earlier, the Yonhap news agency, citing the South Korean military, reported that North Korea launched a ballistic missile towards the Sea of Japan.

The head of the Japanese Ministry of Defense, Yasukazu Hamada, said that the missile fired by the DPRK fell outside the exclusive economic zone of Japan.