Yes, it is true that North Korea fired a missile that flew over Japan on Thursday, April 13, 2023. The missile was launched from an area near Pyongyang, and flew for about 20 minutes before passing over Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, and then falling into the Pacific Ocean.

The launch of the missile was condemned by the international community, with the United States, Japan, and South Korea all strongly criticizing North Korea for its provocative behavior. The launch was also a violation of UN Security Council resolutions, which prohibit North Korea from conducting ballistic missile tests.

The reason behind North Korea's missile launch is not entirely clear, but it is likely part of its ongoing effort to develop its nuclear weapons and missile capabilities. North Korea has been conducting missile tests at an unprecedented rate this year, and has also conducted several nuclear tests in recent years. The country's leader, Kim Jong-un, has repeatedly stated his intention to develop nuclear weapons that can reach the United States, and has vowed to continue his missile and nuclear programs in the face of international sanctions and pressure.

The missile launch also comes at a time of heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula, as the United States and South Korea are conducting joint military exercises in the region. North Korea has long criticized these exercises as a provocation and a threat to its national security, and has often responded with its own military drills and missile tests.

The missile launch over Japan is a significant escalation of North Korea's provocative behavior, and underscores the urgent need for a diplomatic solution to the crisis on the Korean Peninsula. The international community must continue to work together to apply pressure on North Korea to abandon its nuclear and missile programs, while also pursuing diplomatic engagement to try to defuse tensions and avoid a catastrophic military conflict.