South Korean and U.S. military officials say North Korea carried out a ballistic missile test early Wednesday. U.S. officials say two missiles were launched. One was successful. The other missile reportedly exploded immediately after launch. The test is the fourth such missile launch in recent weeks, although North Korea faces strong international restrictions linked to the activity. The United Nations, South Korea and the U.S. have placed economic and trade sanctions on North Korea because of its nuclear and missile programs. In addition, the U.S. has placed sanctions on North Korean officials, including leader Kim Jong-un, for human rights abuses. The launch Wednesday took place from the country’s western Hwanghae province. One missile traveled about 1,000 kilometers to the east before landing close to or in Japanese waters. Japan's Prime Minister called the launch a “grave threat” to his country’s security.
