Opening Statement by Chief Cabinet Secretary Fujimura

The Government of Japan received information indicating that some kind of flying object was launched from North Korea at approximately 7:40 today. It is assumed that the object flew about over one minute, and then fell into the ocean.

Although we are still in the process of analyzing the details of the launch, it is assumed that there were no impacts caused by the fallen objects on the territory of Japan.
We would like to ask our citizen to continue on with their normal lives and activities as usual.
At the same time, the Government continues to be fully engaged in the information gathering as well as analysis of the facts.

The Government will immediately make an announcement as additional information is obtained which should be shared with the public. In fact, regarding the forthcoming measures to be taken, the Government will convene the Security Council, consisting of Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Chief Cabinet Secretary, Minister of Defense, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, National Public Safety Commission Chairman, Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications, and so on at 8:40 am. I would like to close my briefing here only with my statement, and will hold another press conference after the Council.

Q&As

REPORTER: I would like to ask you one question. When were you able to confirm the information.

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: At 7:42 am.

(Abridged)

END