China expresses 'regret' over N Korea rocket launch
North Korea has successfully launched a long-range rocket, defying international warnings.
The rocket, launched at 09:49 local time (00:49 GMT), appears to have followed its planned trajectory, with stages falling in expected areas.
In China - which is North Korea's closest ally - Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei expressed "regret" at the launch.
Footage filmed by Japanese broadcaster Fuji TV purported to show the rocket mid-flight.
Damien Grammaticus reports on China's reaction.
12 Dec 2012
- From the section Asia