North Korea’s latest attempt to launch a spy satellite has ended in failure. According to reports, the rocket used to launch the satellite plunged into the sea off North Korea’s eastern coast shortly after takeoff. The incident comes just weeks after North Korea announced its plans to launch its first military spy satellite. The launch had raised concerns among neighboring countries, including South Korea, which had warned that such a move could destabilize the region.

Following the failed launch, North Korea issued a statement acknowledging the incident and claiming that it was still committed to its space program. The statement also criticized what it called the “double standards” of the international community, which it said allowed other countries to pursue space technology while denying North Korea the same rights.

The failed launch has also raised concerns about safety in the region. In Seoul, evacuation alerts and sirens caused widespread panic among residents after news of the launch broke. The incident highlights the difficult dilemma faced by authorities, who must balance the need for safety with the potential for overreaction and panic.