PYONGYANG, July 4 (Xinhua) -- The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) Tuesday announced the success of the launch of a intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

The Korean Central Television reported in a special program that top DPRK leader Kim Jong Un signed the order to carry out the test-fire of the ICBM, Huwasong-14, on Monday.

The DPRK Academy of Defense Science is expected to give a detailed report later on the ICBM's successful launch, which is under the personal conduct of Kim, said the TV report.

The ICBM launch is a major step in DPRK's controversial missile development program, which Pyongyang says is aimed at guaranteeing the defense of the country's security and right of national existence against imminent threats from the United States.