South Korea says North Korea has fired seven missiles off its eastern coast.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff say six earlier missiles were fired Saturday morning, with the seventh around 5:40 p.m., or 3:40 a.m in Kansas.

Experts believe the missile launches were meant to coincide with the United State's July 4th celebrations. The U.S. has previously condemned N. Korea's plans to restart its nuclear program.

The series of launches also comes two days after North Korea fired four short-range missiles.

The test-firing could further escalate tensions in the region as the U.S. tries to muster support for tough enforcement of a U.N. resolution imposed on the communist regime for its May nuclear test.

South Korea's Yonhap news agency quotes military officials as saying the missiles fired Saturday appear to be Scuds. South Korea's military said North Korea's Scuds are considered short-range.

U.S. officials say they are monitoring the communist country's actions and intentions.