A North Korean missile which prompted an emergency alert in Japan has fallen into the ocean, 50 minutes after it was launched.

Japan was on high alert and urging Hokkaido residents to seek shelter as the missile from North Korea was initially expected to fall in the area.

As of 11:30AM NZT, there is no more immediate danger to Hokkaido residents.

Earlier today, Japan issued a warning to residents to take shelter as a North Korean missile was reportedly headed towards the country.

Japanese authorities urged residents to get inside or underground.

According to online reports, North Korea’s missile was initially expected to fall around the Hokkaido area around 8am local time.

Some reports state the missile had been flying “for about 45 minutes so far”.

Television stations in Japan broadcasted the alert, urging residents to seek shelter immediately.

Sirens could be heard blasting in the Hokkaido region where the missile was expected to fall.

This is a developing story. More to come.