Pakistan, Aug. 12 -- North Korea fired a ballistic missile toward waters off its eastern coast on Wednesday. South Korean and Japanese authorities confirmed the launch. The missile was launched from the Wonsan area at around 6am local time. The launch came six days after another missile was fired from the same location. The latest test occurred ahead of major military exercises between South Korea and the United States.

Read More: North Korea launches short-range ballistic missile

The joint exercises, known as Ulchi Freedom Shield, will run from August 17 to 27. The drills aim to strengthen responses to North Korea's nuclear and weapons capabilities. Pyongyang has repeatedly condemned the exercises. Analysts said the latest launch could...