Launch Of Solid-Fuel ICBM Raises Risks, Sparks Evac Alert In Japan

The test launch of what observers believe to be North Korea's first solid-fuel long-range missile raises security risks in northeast Asia. The test launch saw Japan's public early-warning system, J-Alert, called for the evacuation of millions on the northern island of Hokkaido due to the risk of the missile landing nearby. Chief Cabinet secretary Hirokazu Matsuno stated subsequently that “We did not correct the information issued by J-Alert.”

• If confirmed as a solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), this test would mark the first of its nature by North Korea. Solid-fuel ICBMs are viewed as a greater security risk as they do not require filling prior to launch, previously seen as a crucial time period that would give Japan/South Korea time to prepare defensive capabilities.
• The US "strongly condemned" the launch, with NSC spox Adrienne Watson stating “The door has not closed on diplomacy, but Pyongyang must immediately cease its destabilising actions and instead choose diplomatic engagement,”