North Korea defies warnings to launch rocket
North Korea says it has successfully launched its rocket, in defiance of international warnings.
Reports suggest the rocket, launched at 09:49 local time (00:49 GMT), followed its planned trajectory, with stages falling in expected areas. North Korea says a satellite has been put in orbit.
North Korea's neighbours and the US have called the launch a cover for long-range missile development.
Lucy Williamson is following developments from the South Korean capital, Seoul.
12 Dec 2012