New test follows threats

North Korea launched a ballistic missile towards its easternwaters yesterday, South Korean and Japanese officials said, just days after North Korean leader Kimjong Un vowed to bolster his nuclear arsenal ‘‘at the fastest possible pace’’ and threatened to use it against the country’s rivals. The launchwas the North’s 14th round of weapons tests. There are also signs that North Korea is preparing for a nuclear test at its remote northeastern testing facility. South Korean President-elect Yoon Suk Yeol has vowed to boost Seoul’smissile capability and solidify its military alliance with the United States.