North Korea’s latest satellite launch ends in explosion during flight, officials confirm

North Korea’s attempt to launch a new military reconnaissance satellite ended in failure on Monday when a newly developed rocket engine exploded in flight. The launch, which came just hours after Pyongyang issued a warning of its intentions, marked the country’s latest setback in its efforts to expand its space program.

The deputy director general of North Korea’s National Aerospace Technology Administration reported that the rocket carrying the satellite failed when it exploded during the first stage of flight. Initial analysis pointed to a newly developed liquid fuel rocket motor as the possible cause of the explosion, although further investigations were underway.

South Korea and Japan both confirmed the launch had failed, with debris from the rocket detected in the sea just minutes after liftoff. The projectile disappeared over the Yellow Sea, and Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi stated that nothing had entered space.

The launch, which originated from North Korea’s main space flight center in Dongchang-ri, prompted Japan to issue an emergency warning for residents in the south to take cover. However, it was later determined that the missile was not expected to fly over Japanese territory.

This failed launch was North Korea’s second attempt to place a spy satellite into orbit, following a successful launch in November. Despite several previous failures, the country remains determined to enhance its space capabilities for military reconnaissance purposes.