South Korea’s Defense Ministry has confirmed that North Korea’s long-range missile broke apart in the air only minutes into the launch.

Senior Defense Ministry official Shin Won-sik said during a press conference on Friday that the rocket exploded and burst into roughly 20 pieces after reaching a final altitude of 151 kilometers. Shin said debris scattered in waters about 100-150 kilometers off South Korea's west coast.

He said investigation is underway to collect the debris, adding no physical damage has been done to South Korea.

The Ministry says it is keeping close tabs on North Korea’s military.