North Korea reportedly fires missile on trajectory toward Japan

North Korea has launched what appears to be a missile headed towards the northern end of Japan on Monday afternoon, according to Japanese government officials.

Japan's NHK News reported that the missile passed over Japan and warned people in northern Japan to take necessary precautions. Military officials have also told South Korea's Yonhap News Agency that North Korea had fired a projectile.

"We'll take utmost efforts to protect the public," Japanese Prime Minister Shinzō Abe said, shortly following the launch.

The latest act of provocation from North Korea comes amid a spate of questionable moves, despite regional leaders, including Russia, denouncing North Korea's nuclear ambitions.

South Korean President Moon Jae-in recently called for his county to prepare to "immediately switch to offensive operations" if the North makes a "provocation that crosses the line," NK News reported.

This story is developing. Check back for updates.