North Korea has launched an unidentified projectile towards the East Sea, also known as the Sea of Japan, according to South Korea's military on Tuesday. Details of the launch have not been disclosed by Seoul yet.

The launch comes a week after Pyongyang claimed to have tested a new hypersonic missile system, which it described as a deterrent against its rivals in the Pacific. This marks North Korea's latest provocation, following its November test of a powerful solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

In response to previous missile launches, South Korea has conducted its own ballistic missile tests as a demonstration of military strength.

Geopolitical Tensions
The launch also coincides with heightened regional tensions. South Korea, a key US ally, remains technically at war with North Korea, as the Korean War ended with an armistice rather than a peace treaty.

Washington has accused North Korea of providing military support to Russia in exchange for resources or aid, with reports suggesting Pyongyang might have sent forces to assist Moscow in its war in Ukraine. However, both North Korea and Russia have denied or refrained from confirming such claims.

The timing of the launch, amidst ongoing geopolitical disputes and international scrutiny of Pyongyang's weapons program, underscores North Korea's continued pursuit of advanced missile technologies. The situation is likely to draw further international attention and potential condemnation.