Japan’s prime minister condemned an “unforgivable act” on Wednesday when North Korea fired two nuclear-capable missiles towards his country, one of which landed within 200 miles of the coast.

The Rodong medium-range missiles were launched in breach of a series of United Nations resolutions. One exploded soon after take-off; another flew eastwards for about 600 miles before landing in the Sea of Japan.

This was among the longest-range missile tests that North Korea has ever conducted. It was also one of the rare launches aimed towards Japan.

The Japanese government confirmed that one Rodong landed inside the country’s “exclusive economic zone” – or within 200 nautical miles of its coastline.

"It imposes a serious threat to Japan's security and it is an unforgivable act of violence toward Japan's security," said Shinzo Abe, the prime minister.