Download The Korean peninsula is again on high alert with Pyongyang just launched its long-range rocket - threatening to spark a regional confrontation.
It flew only a few minutes before crashing into waters off the Korean Peninsula.
The North Korean government says the rocket is carrying a satellite.
The United States, South Korea and Japan say the launch is a disguised ballistic missile test which breaches UN resolutions.
The governments of South Korea and Japan are vowing to shoot the rocket down if it strays into their territory.
But Pyongyang says this will trigger merciless retaliation.
Even North Korea's chief ally, China, admits it's worried by the developing situation.
The 30 metre high rocket is now on the launch pad in North Korea.
Radio Australia’s Mark Willacy has more.
