On Wednesday Seoul was prompted to issue an evacuation and air raid warning for the island of Ulleungdo after North Korea fired an "unidentified ballistic missile" towards the island. The missile did not reach the island of about 10,000 people, and landed in the Sea of Japan, reported Yonhap News, which cited defense officials.
According to Yonhap News more than one missile was fired after North Korea warned of "powerful follow-up measures" in response to military drills between the Untied States and South Korea. The "Vigilant Storm" drill was deemed a "ceaseless and reckless" military provocation against North Korea.
"If the U.S. and South Korea attempt to use armed forces against the DPRK without any fear, the special means of the DPRK's armed forces will carry out their strategic mission without delay and the U.S. and South Korea will have to face a terrible case and pay the most horrible price in history," said Pak Jong-chon, secretary of the Central Committee of the North's ruling Workers' Party, reported Yonhap News.
South Korea officials warned residents of Ulleungdo to shelter in bunkers after three short range ballistic missiles were fired by North Korea's military. Residents of the island were told to "evacuate to the nearest underground shelter".
Ulleungdo is a small island about 75 miles (120 kilometers) east of the Korean Peninsula and survives economically on its fishing and tourism industry.