[Test launch of a new type of inter-continental ballistic missile (ICBM) Hwasongpho-17 of North Korea's strategic forces in an undisclosed location in North Korea. (Photo by=AFP )]

SEOUL: North Korea said Friday that it successfully test-fired a new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), called the Hwasong-17, the previous day on the direct order of its leader Kim Jong-un. Making an on-site inspection of the test, Kim stressed his country would be "fully ready for a long-standing confrontation with the U.S. imperialists," according to the North's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
 
Kim was quoted as adding, "The new strategic weapon of the DPRK would make the whole world clearly aware of the power of our strategic armed forces once again." As he oversaw the firing, meanwhile, Kim warned that any forces infringing upon the security of his country should be aware that it will have to pay a "dear price." The ICBM flew 1,090 kilometers for 4,052 seconds at a top altitude of 6,248 km before "accurately hitting the pre-set area" in the East Sea, the KCNA said.

In response, South Korea's unification ministry handling inter-Korean affairs issued a strongly-worded statement condemning the North for its latest missile launch. Shortly after the launch, South Korean President Moon Jae-in presided over an emergency meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) and strongly condemned the North's test-firing.