Pakistan, April 8 -- North Korea fired multiple short-range ballistic missiles in two rounds Wednesday, marking its fourth and fifth tests this year. Seoul called the launches provocative, warning of regional instability and urging Pyongyang to halt further aggression. The tests underline North Korea's continued rejection of South Korea's recent peace overtures.

The South Korean military reported that the first set of missiles was launched around 8:50 a.m., traveling approximately 240 kilometres. The second round, fired at 2:20 p.m., flew over 700 kilometres toward the East Sea. Japan's Coast Guard also confirmed a suspected ballistic missile launch, advising vessels to remain vigilant.

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