Seoul [South Korea], August 12 (ANI): North Korea conducted a suspected ballistic missile launch on Wednesday, making it the second in less than a week, which also comes amid the backdrop of a US-South Korea combined military drill which will commence next week. Meanwhile, Japan termed it a "suspected ballistic missile launch" by Pyongyang and the Prime Minister's Office issued instructions urging all possible measures for precaution. The development comes on the heels of the upcoming US-South Korea military Exercise Ulchi Freedom Shield which is slated to run 10 days from August 17-27. The missile launch also prompted the NSO to convene an emergency meeting with defence and military officials shortly after Wednesday's launch to assess the launch and its impact on security, and directed necessary measures, officials said. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News.