North Korea fired a ballistic missile into the East Sea on Thursday morning, according to South Korea and Japan. The launch comes as the US and South Korea prepare to begin joint military drills in the region.

The missile was fired around 7:11 a.m. local time from Pyongan Province in North Korea, according to South Korea’s military. It flew eastward for about 420 miles before landing in the East Sea.

The launch was the first since North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US President Joe Biden took office. It is seen as a show of force by North Korea and a challenge to the new US administration.

The US and South Korea began their annual joint military drills on Sunday, which are seen as a rehearsal for a potential conflict with North Korea. The exercises are set to last until April 30.

The US State Department has condemned the missile launch and called on North Korea to comply with UN Security Council resolutions.

This story is developing. Check back for updates.

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