Sunday's launch did not pose a security threat to neighboring countries, KCNA said, adding that the launch was aimed at testing the reliability of a new high-thrust, multi-stage solid-fuel engine for a medium-range hypersonic missile.

South Korea's military said earlier that the missile, launched from the Pyongyang area at around 2:55 p.m. on Sunday, flew about 1,000 kilometers off the country's east coast. Japan's defense ministry said the maximum altitude was at least 50 kilometers.

Pyongyang also previously said it tested a new solid-fuel engine for an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) on November 11 and 14.

South Korean officials believe the solid-fuel IRBM being developed by North Korea is capable of striking US military bases in Japan and Guam. IRBMs have a range of up to 5,500 km.

Solid-fuel missiles are known to be harder to detect before launch than liquid-fuel missiles, which require more preparation, such as fuel injection.

Recent missile launches by North Korea and military exercises by South Korea with the United States and Japan have increased tensions in the region. On January 7, North Korea conducted artillery firing drills near the maritime border between the two countries.

The incident prompted South Korea to hold live-fire drills from the northwestern border islands of Baengnyeong and Yeonpyeong for the first time in more than six years.

Hoang Anh (according to KCNA, Yonhap, Reuters)