North Korea fired at least one ballistic missile toward its eastern waters, South Korea’s military reported Friday, following recent artillery tests and U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s visit for annual security talks.

The short-range missile traveled 700 km (435 miles) toward the East Sea (Sea of Japan), likely landing outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone.

The launch comes amid rising tensions as South Korea prepares to build a nuclear-powered submarine with U.S. support, seeking enriched uranium for fuel.

North Korea has rejected renewed dialogue with the U.S. and South Korea, insisting on retaining its nuclear arsenal, while showcasing new intercontinental ballistic missiles during a September military parade, Al-Jazeera has reported.

Meanwhile, North Korea and Russia met this week to strengthen military cooperation, and South Korean intelligence reports indicate Pyongyang has deployed thousands of troops and construction personnel to support Russia’s war effort in Ukraine.