Japan Expresses Regret Over North Korea's Satellite Launch Announcement

Japan criticizes North Korea's announcement of a satellite launch between August 24-31, calling it "extremely regrettable." The launch, which would fly over areas outside Japan's exclusive economic zone, comes shortly after the US, Japan, and South Korea projected unity against China's growing power and North Korea's nuclear threats. North Korea's previous satellite launch in May failed due to engine and fuel system instability. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida urged North Korea to halt the planned launch, while Japan prepares its missile defense system and gathers information.