North Korea launches ballistic missiles

The latest show of force from North Korea has heightened regional tensions as the nuclear-armed state continues to defy UN sanctions.

South Korean and U.S. intelligence are currently analyzing whether the missiles were launched from land-based platforms or submarines.

Analysts suggest the tests are a direct rejection of South Korea's attempts to ease hostilities and may be timed to exploit global distractions caused by the Iran war.

The UN has urged Pyongyang to cease provocative acts and return to diplomatic negotiations.