After two failed attempts, North Korea has successfully launched a spy satellite into space, according to state media. As reported by KCNA news agency, a launch vehicle carrying the “Malligyong-1” satellite was launched today from North Phyongan province. This flew on the intended trajectory and placed the satellite “exactly” in its orbit.
The South Korean military had previously said it had discovered a “suspected military surveillance satellite”. Japan also confirmed the launch of a rocket.
The US condemned the process. The launch using “ballistic missile technology” was a clear violation of UN Security Council resolutions, said White House National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson.