North Korea

The failed launch "severely damaged the dignity and pride of our nation in an instant," says the North Korean leader.

Seoul has intensified efforts to help North Korean defectors settle into the South.

The announcement comes after North Korea confirmed for the first time its soldiers are fighting alongside Russia.

It comes just days after Russia's Valery Gerasimov praised the "heroism" of North Korean troops.

The race in Pyongyang to mark the birthday of Kim Il Sung was held every year until the pandemic hit.

Analysts said the development of the technology was likely assisted by Russia.