North Korea set to delay rocket launch

GlobalPost

North Korea is considering the delay of its controversial rocket launch, which was scheduled in between December 10 and 22 and has been condemned by the international community. 

According to a spokesperson from the North Korean Space Agency, the country is "seriously examining the issue of readjusting the launching time of the satellite," Reuters reported

The controversial launch, which has possibly been delayed by heavy snowfall in the region, was scheduled to coincide with North Korea's former leader Kim Jong-il's death anniversary, according to Reuters.

However, it also comes as Japan and South Korea hold December elections, eliciting strong responses from Japan in particular — Tokyo threatened to shoot down the missile if it goes off course into Japanese airspace, Voice of America reported.  

Russia, the United States, and other nations have also spoken out against the satellite launch, calling it a cover for ballistic missile technology tests, CNN reported

North Korea is forbidden from such tests by the United Nations, but has ignored those resolutions. It has had several unsuccessful launches in recent years, including April's failed attempt, which put neighboring countries on alert. 

More from GlobalPost: North Korea to launch long-range rocket in December

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