According to the Center for Strategic and International Studies, North Korea is preparing to conduct another nuclear test at the Punggye-ri test site.

The report said satellite images showed "refurbishment work and preparations" were underway at tunnel No. 3 which began nearly four months ago "are apparently now complete".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-says-north-korea-fires-multiple-artillery-shots-from-rocket-launchers-487600">Also Read:&nbsp;South Korea says North Korea fires multiple artillery shots from rocket launchers</a>

The think tank said new construction has been seen at tunnel No.4 "strongly suggesting an effort for potential future testing".

It added that the "timing" of the seventh nuclear test was "solely within the hands of Kim Jong-Un."

Watch:&nbsp;North Korea working to include 2nd tunnel at nuclear test site, says US Think Tank

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South Korea's foreign minister Jin Park had earlier claimed that "preparations for a nuclear test were completed" and only "political decision remains".

The think tank&nbsp;said a "new caisson wall under construction and construction materials" have been observed at tunnel 4. It found "no significant activity" in satellite images at tunnel No:3.

The think-tank informed that "ongoing activity in the main administration and support area" has been observed with storage buildings being renovated and "several new buildings are under construction". It also found visible "vehicle tracks".

The report said satellite images showed no indicators of activity at tunnels no.1 and 2.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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According to the Center for Strategic and International Studies, North Korea is preparing to conduct another nuclear test at the Punggye-ri test site. The report said satellite images showed "refurbishment work and preparations" were underway at tunnel No.

According to the Center for Strategic and International Studies, North Korea is preparing to conduct another nuclear test at the Punggye-ri test site. The report said satellite images showed "refurbishment work and preparations" were underway at tunnel No. 3 which began nearly four months ago "are apparently now complete". Also Read: South Korea says North Korea fires multiple artillery shots from rocket launchers The think tank said new construction has been seen at tunnel No.4 "strongly suggesting an effort for potential future testing". It added that the "timing" of the seventh nuclear test was "solely within the hands of Kim Jong-Un." Watch: North Korea working to include 2nd tunnel at nuclear test site, says US Think Tank South Korea's foreign minister Jin Park had earlier claimed that "preparations for a nuclear test were completed" and only "political decision remains". The think tank said a "new caisson wall under construction and construction materials" have been observed at tunnel 4. It found "no significant activity" in satellite images at tunnel No:3. The think-tank informed that "ongoing activity in the main administration and support area" has been observed with storage buildings being renovated and "several new buildings are under construction". It also found visible "vehicle tracks". The report said satellite images showed no indicators of activity at tunnels no.1 and 2. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Satellite image shows North Korean activity in tunnel 4 at Punggye-ri nuclear facility

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;appears to be expanding work at its nuclear test site to include a second tunnel, a U.S.-based think tank said on Thursday, as South&nbsp;Korean and U.S. officials say&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;might conduct a nuclear test any day.

Preparation work at the Punggye-ri Nuclear Test Facility's Tunnel No. 3 was apparently complete and ready for a possible nuclear test, the Center for Strategic and International Studies said in a report, citing commercial satellite imagery.

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;conducted six underground nuclear tests at the site from 2006 to 2017.

The research group said that for the first time, analysts spotted new construction activity at the facility's Tunnel No. 4, "strongly suggesting an effort to re-enable it for potential future testing".

Outside Tunnel No. 3, images showed a retaining wall and some minor landscaping with small trees or bushes, likely in anticipation of a visit by senior officials, it said.

The two tunnels were never previously used for nuclear tests and their entrances were demolished in 2018, when&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;declared a self-imposed moratorium on testing nuclear weapons and its intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).

Leader Kim Jong Un has said he is no longer bound by that moratorium because of a lack of reciprocal steps by the United States during denuclearisation talks, and&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;resumed testing ICBMs this year.

South&nbsp;Korean officials said this week that&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;was poised to conduct a nuclear test "at any time" and that the timing would be decided by Kim.

South&nbsp;Korea's defence ministry spokesman, when asked about the report, said it was closely monitoring developments on&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea's nuclear activity together with U.S. intelligence authorities but declined to make any further comment.

South&nbsp;Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin said on Monday after talks with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington that any provocation by&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea, including a nuclear test, would be met with a united, firm response.

He urged China, for years&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea's only major ally, to use its influence.

Park also vowed to work to normalise an intelligence sharing pact with Japan "as soon as possible" to boost their responses to&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea's nuclear and missile threats.

The accord, the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), had been a backbone of trilateral security information sharing by South&nbsp;Korea, the United States and Japan.

But South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;had considered scrapping the pact with Japan in late 2019, during a period of strained ties, before a last-minute decision https://www.reuters.com/article/us-southkorea-japan-idUSKBN1XW087 to renew it in the face of U.S. pressure.

South&nbsp;Korean officials have said that since then, intelligence sharing with Japan had not been as smooth as it was before.

North Korea appears to be expanding work at its nuclear test site to include a second tunnel, a U.S.-based think tank said on Thursday, as South Korean and U.S. officials say North Korea might conduct a nuclear test any day.

North Korea appears to be expanding work at its nuclear test site to include a second tunnel, a U.S.-based think tank said on Thursday, as South Korean and U.S. officials say North Korea might conduct a nuclear test any day. Preparation work at the Punggye-ri Nuclear Test Facility's Tunnel No. 3 was apparently complete and ready for a possible nuclear test, the Center for Strategic and International Studies said in a report, citing commercial satellite imagery. North Korea conducted six underground nuclear tests at the site from 2006 to 2017. The research group said that for the first time, analysts spotted new construction activity at the facility's Tunnel No. 4, "strongly suggesting an effort to re-enable it for potential future testing". Outside Tunnel No. 3, images showed a retaining wall and some minor landscaping with small trees or bushes, likely in anticipation of a visit by senior officials, it said. The two tunnels were never previously used for nuclear tests and their entrances were demolished in 2018, when North Korea declared a self-imposed moratorium on testing nuclear weapons and its intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). Leader Kim Jong Un has said he is no longer bound by that moratorium because of a lack of reciprocal steps by the United States during denuclearisation talks, and North Korea resumed testing ICBMs this year. South Korean officials said this week that North Korea was poised to conduct a nuclear test "at any time" and that the timing would be decided by Kim. South Korea's defence ministry spokesman, when asked about the report, said it was closely monitoring developments on North Korea's nuclear activity together with U.S. intelligence authorities but declined to make any further comment. South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin said on Monday after talks with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington that any provocation by North Korea, including a nuclear test, would be met with a united, firm response. He urged China, for years North Korea's only major ally, to use its influence. Park also vowed to work to normalise an intelligence sharing pact with Japan "as soon as possible" to boost their responses to North Korea's nuclear and missile threats. The accord, the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), had been a backbone of trilateral security information sharing by South Korea, the United States and Japan. But South Korea had considered scrapping the pact with Japan in late 2019, during a period of strained ties, before a last-minute decision https://www.reuters.com/article/us-southkorea-japan-idUSKBN1XW087 to renew it in the face of U.S. pressure. South Korean officials have said that since then, intelligence sharing with Japan had not been as smooth as it was before.

North Korea expands work at nuclear test site to second tunnel: Report

North Korea reported an outbreak of an unidentified intestinal epidemic in a farming region on Thursday, putting further strain on the isolated country as it battles chronic food shortages and a wave of Covid-19 infections.

Leader Kim Jong Un sent medicines to the western port city of Haeju on Wednesday to help patients suffering from the "acute enteric epidemic", state news agency KCNA said, without giving the number affected, or identifying the disease.

The term enteric refers to the gastrointestinal tract.

"(Kim) stressed the need to contain the epidemic at the earliest date possible by taking a well-knit measure to quarantine the suspected cases to thoroughly curb its spread, confirming cases through epidemiological examination and scientific tests," KCNA said.

An official at South Korea's Unification Ministry handling inter-Korean affairs said the government is monitoring the outbreak, suspected to be cholera or typhoid.

The reported outbreak comes as the North tackles its first outbreak of COVID-19 infections. It declared a state of emergency last month, amid concerns over a lack of vaccines and medical supplies.

South Korea's spy agency earlier told lawmakers that waterborne diseases, such as typhoid, were already widespread in North Korea before it announced the coronavirus outbreak.

"Intestinal diseases such as typhoid and shigellosis are not particularly new in North Korea but what's troubling is that it comes at a time when the country is already struggling from COVID-19," said professor Shin Young-jeon at Hanyang University's College of Medicine in Seoul.

South Korea is willing to cooperate with the North to tackle the disease outbreak, but Pyongyang remains unresponsive to any offers for dialogue, including Seoul's earlier proposal to provide Covid vaccines, said another official at the unification ministry.

South Hwanghae Province, where Haeju is located, is North Korea's key agricultural region, raising concerns over possible impacts on the country's already dire food shortage.

While the possibility of infections spreading through crops appears low, the key will be disinfecting water supply sources as the disease likely to be waterborne, said Eom Joong-sik, an infectious disease expert at Gachon University Gil Medical Center.

Pyongyang has been daily announcing the number of fever patients without specifying them as Covid patients, apparently due to a lack of testing kits. Experts also suspect underreporting in the figures released through government-controlled media.

North Korea reported 26,010 more people with fever symptoms on Thursday, with the total number of fever patients recorded across the country since late April nearing 4.56 million. The death toll linked to the outbreak is at 73.

The North has said the Covid wave has shown signs of subsiding, but the World Health Organization cast doubts on Pyongyang's claims earlier this month, saying it believes the situation is getting worse.

North Korea reported an outbreak of an unidentified intestinal epidemic in a farming region on Thursday, putting further strain on the isolated country as it battles chronic food shortages and a wave of Covid-19 infections.

North Korea reported an outbreak of an unidentified intestinal epidemic in a farming region on Thursday, putting further strain on the isolated country as it battles chronic food shortages and a wave of Covid-19 infections. Leader Kim Jong Un sent medicines to the western port city of Haeju on Wednesday to help patients suffering from the "acute enteric epidemic", state news agency KCNA said, without giving the number affected, or identifying the disease. The term enteric refers to the gastrointestinal tract. "(Kim) stressed the need to contain the epidemic at the earliest date possible by taking a well-knit measure to quarantine the suspected cases to thoroughly curb its spread, confirming cases through epidemiological examination and scientific tests," KCNA said. An official at South Korea's Unification Ministry handling inter-Korean affairs said the government is monitoring the outbreak, suspected to be cholera or typhoid. The reported outbreak comes as the North tackles its first outbreak of COVID-19 infections. It declared a state of emergency last month, amid concerns over a lack of vaccines and medical supplies. South Korea's spy agency earlier told lawmakers that waterborne diseases, such as typhoid, were already widespread in North Korea before it announced the coronavirus outbreak. "Intestinal diseases such as typhoid and shigellosis are not particularly new in North Korea but what's troubling is that it comes at a time when the country is already struggling from COVID-19," said professor Shin Young-jeon at Hanyang University's College of Medicine in Seoul. South Korea is willing to cooperate with the North to tackle the disease outbreak, but Pyongyang remains unresponsive to any offers for dialogue, including Seoul's earlier proposal to provide Covid vaccines, said another official at the unification ministry. South Hwanghae Province, where Haeju is located, is North Korea's key agricultural region, raising concerns over possible impacts on the country's already dire food shortage. While the possibility of infections spreading through crops appears low, the key will be disinfecting water supply sources as the disease likely to be waterborne, said Eom Joong-sik, an infectious disease expert at Gachon University Gil Medical Center. Pyongyang has been daily announcing the number of fever patients without specifying them as Covid patients, apparently due to a lack of testing kits. Experts also suspect underreporting in the figures released through government-controlled media. North Korea reported 26,010 more people with fever symptoms on Thursday, with the total number of fever patients recorded across the country since late April nearing 4.56 million. The death toll linked to the outbreak is at 73. The North has said the Covid wave has shown signs of subsiding, but the World Health Organization cast doubts on Pyongyang's claims earlier this month, saying it believes the situation is getting worse.

North Korea faces another infectious disease outbreak amid COVID-19 battle

A US based think tank said, North Korea appears to be working at its nuclear test site to include a 2nd tunnel. Meanwhile, South Korean and US officials have said a new nuclear test could happen any day. for more details, we're joined by WION's correspondent Phoebe Amoroso.

North Korea working to include 2nd tunnel at nuclear test site, says US Think Tank

As tensions continue to simmer between Beijing and Washington the US national security adviser Jake Sullivan and the Chinese top diplomat Yang Jiechi held a candid meeting on Monday to discuss an area of issues concerning both the nations the talks mainly focused on Beijing's veto move.

Top US, Chinese diplomats hold meet: Focus on North Korea, China's veto at the UN

South Korea's military claimed that on Sunday (June 12) North Korea fired multiple artillery shots between 8:07 am and 11:03 am (local time. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said that the alleged projectiles were presumed to be fired from multiple rocket launchers.&nbsp;

The claims made by the South Korean military appear to be another show of force just one day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reaffirmed arms buildup in a party meeting. He vowed to boost the reclusive nation's military power.&nbsp;

Without providing any details, the Joint Chiefs of Staff gave said that it had decided to issue a statement late in the evening as the shots were of a traditional type, with relatively short-range and low altitude.&nbsp;

Global concerns were raised when a week earlier, the DPRK fired eight short-range ballistic missiles eastward from four different areas. Since the new government of South Korea was inaugurated on May 10, the DPRK has conducted projectile launches four times.&nbsp;

Recently, a government-affiliated think tank in Seoul stated that North Korea spent up to $650 million on missile tests this year. As per a report by the Korea Institute for Defense Analyses, Kim's regime spent an estimated $400 million to $650 million on developing and testing the 33 missiles it fired this year.&nbsp;

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South Korea's military claimed that on Sunday (June 12) North Korea fired multiple artillery shots between 8:07 am and 11:03 am (local time. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said that the alleged projectiles were presumed to be fired from multiple rocket launchers.

South Korea's military claimed that on Sunday (June 12) North Korea fired multiple artillery shots between 8:07 am and 11:03 am (local time. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said that the alleged projectiles were presumed to be fired from multiple rocket launchers. The claims made by the South Korean military appear to be another show of force just one day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reaffirmed arms buildup in a party meeting. He vowed to boost the reclusive nation's military power. Without providing any details, the Joint Chiefs of Staff gave said that it had decided to issue a statement late in the evening as the shots were of a traditional type, with relatively short-range and low altitude. Global concerns were raised when a week earlier, the DPRK fired eight short-range ballistic missiles eastward from four different areas. Since the new government of South Korea was inaugurated on May 10, the DPRK has conducted projectile launches four times. Recently, a government-affiliated think tank in Seoul stated that North Korea spent up to $650 million on missile tests this year. As per a report by the Korea Institute for Defense Analyses, Kim's regime spent an estimated $400 million to $650 million on developing and testing the 33 missiles it fired this year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Korea says North Korea fires multiple artillery shots from rocket launchers

Tensions have escalated in the Korean peninsula. South Korea said that North Korea test-fired suspected artillery shots. South Korea has also said that it will maintain firm military readiness.

Tensions simmer in Korean peninsula: South Korea says North Korea test-fired suspected artillery shots

Tensions are brewing in the Korean peninsula. South Korea's minister spoke at an Asian security meeting and warned against the North Korea Nuclear program.

Tensions simmer in Korean peninsula: South Korea warns against North Korea Nuclear program

North Korea has appointed veteran diplomat Choe Son Hui as its first female foreign minister. Choe, who formerly served as the North's vice foreign minister will replace Ri Son Gwon.

North Korea appoints first female foreign minister

North Korea has appointed veteran diplomat Choe Son-hui as its first female foreign minister, state media reported Saturday, as Pyongyang pushes ahead with a blitz of sanctions-busting weapons tests and ignores US calls for talks.

Choe, who formerly served as the North's vice foreign minister, was tapped to lead the foreign ministry at a ruling party meeting overseen by leader Kim Jong Un, the state media KCNA reported.

She replaces Ri Son Gwon, a hardline former military official who previously led talks with the South.

A career diplomat who speaks fluent English, Choe served as a close aide to Kim during nuclear talks with the United States and accompanied the North Korean leader to summits with then US President Donald Trump. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-south-korea-unleash-air-power-is-it-a-deterrent-against-north-koreas-missiles-485966">Pictures: US, South Korea unleash air power: Is it a deterrent against North Korea's missiles?</a>

She held a rare question-and-answer session with reporters on the night the two leaders' summit in Hanoi collapsed without a deal in February 2019, blaming Washington for the failed talks.

"I think the United States has missed a golden opportunity with its rejection of our proposals," she said.

Watch | Gravitas Plus: How did North Korea become the world's most isolated country?

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Diplomacy between Pyongyang and Washington have since stalled, with the Kim regime in recent months not responding to the United States' repeated offers to return to negotiations.

The nuclear-armed North has meanwhile carried out a blitz of sanctions-busting weapons tests this year, including firing an intercontinental ballistic missile at full range for the first time since 2017.

US and South Korean officials have also warned that Kim's regime is preparing to carry out what would be its seventh nuclear test -- a move that Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman warned would provoke a "swift and forceful" response.

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North Korea has appointed veteran diplomat Choe Son-hui as its first female foreign minister, state media reported Saturday, as Pyongyang pushes ahead with a blitz of sanctions-busting weapons tests and ignores US calls for talks.

North Korea has appointed veteran diplomat Choe Son-hui as its first female foreign minister, state media reported Saturday, as Pyongyang pushes ahead with a blitz of sanctions-busting weapons tests and ignores US calls for talks. Choe, who formerly served as the North's vice foreign minister, was tapped to lead the foreign ministry at a ruling party meeting overseen by leader Kim Jong Un, the state media KCNA reported. She replaces Ri Son Gwon, a hardline former military official who previously led talks with the South. A career diplomat who speaks fluent English, Choe served as a close aide to Kim during nuclear talks with the United States and accompanied the North Korean leader to summits with then US President Donald Trump. Pictures: US, South Korea unleash air power: Is it a deterrent against North Korea's missiles? She held a rare question-and-answer session with reporters on the night the two leaders' summit in Hanoi collapsed without a deal in February 2019, blaming Washington for the failed talks. "I think the United States has missed a golden opportunity with its rejection of our proposals," she said. Watch | Gravitas Plus: How did North Korea become the world's most isolated country? Diplomacy between Pyongyang and Washington have since stalled, with the Kim regime in recent months not responding to the United States' repeated offers to return to negotiations. The nuclear-armed North has meanwhile carried out a blitz of sanctions-busting weapons tests this year, including firing an intercontinental ballistic missile at full range for the first time since 2017. US and South Korean officials have also warned that Kim's regime is preparing to carry out what would be its seventh nuclear test -- a move that Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman warned would provoke a "swift and forceful" response. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

North Korea appoints veteran diplomat as first female foreign minister

China and Russia targeted the United states during a landmark UN general assembly session. They accused Washington of stoking tensions in the Korean peninsula.

China makes plea to ease sanctions against North Korea

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: 1000 Ukrainian soldiers sent to Russia; US on North Korea nuclear test

Issuing a warning, a US special representative for North Korea has said that the Hermit Kingdom could conduct a seventh nuclear test at any time further asserting on how the country has shown no interest in returning to the negotiating table.

'Nuke test could take place any time,' US warns North Korea of nuclear test

Daily Covid cases have been increasing in the Chinese city of Dandong, which shares a border with North Korea, raising suspicion that wind blowing in from North Korea could be a reason behind it.

Despite being locked down since the end of April, daily cases have been trending up in Dandong, a city of 2.19 million.

According to the city’s Center for Disease Control, most of the infected people found in the community during the past week had not been outside of their housing compounds for at least four days prior to their diagnosis.

North Korean state media has said that the Covid wave has abated, after daily numbers of people with fever topped 390,000 about two weeks ago, but the World Health Organization has cast doubts on North Korea's claims of progress in the fight against a COVID-19 outbreak, saying it believes the situation is getting worse, not better, amid an absence of independent data.

Pyongyang has never directly confirmed how many people have tested positive for the virus but experts suspect underreporting in the figures released through government-controlled media, making it difficult to assess the scale of the situation.

The Chinese authorities have urged the residents living by the Yalu River that runs between the two countries to close their windows on days with southerly winds and go for regular testing.

There is not any clear scientific evidence backing up the theory. Research shows that infections through airborne transmission are unlikely over long distances, particularly in outdoor settings without repeated exposure.&nbsp;

[With inputs from agencies] 
&nbsp;

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Daily Covid cases have been increasing in the Chinese city of Dandong, which shares a border with North Korea, raising suspicion that wind blowing in from North Korea could be a reason behind it.

Daily Covid cases have been increasing in the Chinese city of Dandong, which shares a border with North Korea, raising suspicion that wind blowing in from North Korea could be a reason behind it. Despite being locked down since the end of April, daily cases have been trending up in Dandong, a city of 2.19 million. According to the city’s Center for Disease Control, most of the infected people found in the community during the past week had not been outside of their housing compounds for at least four days prior to their diagnosis. North Korean state media has said that the Covid wave has abated, after daily numbers of people with fever topped 390,000 about two weeks ago, but the World Health Organization has cast doubts on North Korea's claims of progress in the fight against a COVID-19 outbreak, saying it believes the situation is getting worse, not better, amid an absence of independent data. Pyongyang has never directly confirmed how many people have tested positive for the virus but experts suspect underreporting in the figures released through government-controlled media, making it difficult to assess the scale of the situation. The Chinese authorities have urged the residents living by the Yalu River that runs between the two countries to close their windows on days with southerly winds and go for regular testing. There is not any clear scientific evidence backing up the theory. Research shows that infections through airborne transmission are unlikely over long distances, particularly in outdoor settings without repeated exposure. [With inputs from agencies] WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China suspects wind blowing from North Korea leading to Covid wave in Dandong

Gravitas Global Headlines: South Korea and US against North Korea; US Capitol Hill Riots

A US diplomat said on Tuesday that North Korea has ignored multiple overtures from US for talks. USA's offer to help in Covid outbreak has also been ignored.

Sung Kim, the US Special Representative to North Korea, was talking after North Korea's ballistic missile tests the country carried out on Sunday.

US President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have repeatedly said publicly that Washington seeks diplomatic talks with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea "without preconditions," Kim said.

"We have also reached out to pass this message through private channels as well. This includes high-level personal messages from senior US officials to senior DPRK officials," he told reporters in a briefing.

"Over the past year, we have sent such messages in multiple ways, through third parties, directly in writing," he added, noting that included North Korea neighbor China.

Such messages included specific proposals on humanitarian cooperation and assistance with the recent Covid-19 outbreak in North Korea, said Kim.

"However, to date, the DPRK has not responded and continues to show no indication that is interested in engaging," he said.

It is believed that North Korea is poised to test a new nuclear weapon.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A US diplomat said on Tuesday that North Korea has ignored multiple overtures from US for talks. USA's offer to help in Covid outbreak has also been ignored. Sung Kim, the US Special Representative to North Korea, was talking after North Korea's ballistic missile tests the country carried out on Sunday.

A US diplomat said on Tuesday that North Korea has ignored multiple overtures from US for talks. USA's offer to help in Covid outbreak has also been ignored. Sung Kim, the US Special Representative to North Korea, was talking after North Korea's ballistic missile tests the country carried out on Sunday. US President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have repeatedly said publicly that Washington seeks diplomatic talks with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea "without preconditions," Kim said. "We have also reached out to pass this message through private channels as well. This includes high-level personal messages from senior US officials to senior DPRK officials," he told reporters in a briefing. "Over the past year, we have sent such messages in multiple ways, through third parties, directly in writing," he added, noting that included North Korea neighbor China. Such messages included specific proposals on humanitarian cooperation and assistance with the recent Covid-19 outbreak in North Korea, said Kim. "However, to date, the DPRK has not responded and continues to show no indication that is interested in engaging," he said. It is believed that North Korea is poised to test a new nuclear weapon. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

North Korea not responding to multiple calls for talks, says US

US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman said that there would be a forceful response from the United States, if North Korea were to conduct a nuclear test.

US vows forceful response if North Korea tests nuke

After a recent encounter in international airspace over Asia, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has&nbsp;denounced Beijing's "irresponsible and provocative" actions.

Accusing the Chinese air force of unprofessional and risky behavior, Trudeau said that Canadian aircraft deployed in Japan had to avoid colliding with Bejing's jets.

Tensions between Canada and China have been high ever since the arrest of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou and Trudeau calling Xinjiang atrocities ''genocide''.

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According to the Canadian military, Chinese planes tried to divert their flight path and flew so close that the crew was "very clearly visible."

Slamming China for "not respecting decisions by the UN to enforce sanctions on North Korea," Trudeau said the Canadian aircraft were deployed in Japan as part of a multinational effort to enforce United Nations sanctions against Pyongyang.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-utilise-veto-power-to-halt-us-bid-to-punish-north-korea-over-its-missile-launches-482495">Also read |&nbsp;Russia, China utilise veto power to halt US bid to punish North Korea over its missile launches</a>

It comes after China and Russia used their veto powers to block sanctions against North Korea in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

Trudeau is currently travelling to the US to partake in the Summit of the Americas in Los Angeles which is being convened to counter China's growing clout.

This is not the first time that China has used this tactic as recently Australia also accused China of having endangered one of its military aircraft over the South China Sea on May 26.

After the allegation, China warned Australia to "act prudently" or face "serious consequences."

(With inputs from agencies)

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After a recent encounter in international airspace over Asia, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has denounced Beijing's "irresponsible and provocative" actions.

After a recent encounter in international airspace over Asia, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has denounced Beijing's "irresponsible and provocative" actions. Accusing the Chinese air force of unprofessional and risky behavior, Trudeau said that Canadian aircraft deployed in Japan had to avoid colliding with Bejing's jets. Tensions between Canada and China have been high ever since the arrest of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou and Trudeau calling Xinjiang atrocities ''genocide''. According to the Canadian military, Chinese planes tried to divert their flight path and flew so close that the crew was "very clearly visible." Slamming China for "not respecting decisions by the UN to enforce sanctions on North Korea," Trudeau said the Canadian aircraft were deployed in Japan as part of a multinational effort to enforce United Nations sanctions against Pyongyang. Also read | Russia, China utilise veto power to halt US bid to punish North Korea over its missile launches It comes after China and Russia used their veto powers to block sanctions against North Korea in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Trudeau is currently travelling to the US to partake in the Summit of the Americas in Los Angeles which is being convened to counter China's growing clout. This is not the first time that China has used this tactic as recently Australia also accused China of having endangered one of its military aircraft over the South China Sea on May 26. After the allegation, China warned Australia to "act prudently" or face "serious consequences." (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

After encounter in international airspace over Asia, Trudeau lambasts China's 'provocative' actions

US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman said there will be a strong and clear response if North Korea conducts nuclear tests. North Korea fired several missiles on June 5.

‘Forceful response…’: US, South Korea react to North Korea missile tests

South Korea and the United States staged their first combined military drill involving an American aircraft carrier since 2017. On the other side, North Korea showed signs of resuming missile tests. Japan PM lashed out at the tests conducted by North Korea.

Japan PM: Missile launches by North Korea cannot be tolerated

Seoul's military has said that in response to North Korea's weapons tests, the United States and South Korea fired eight ballistic missiles at 4:45 a.m. on Monday (1945 GMT Sunday).

Citing the South Korean military, the Yonhap news agency reported that the action is a demonstration of "the capability and readiness to carry out precision strike" against North Korea.

It comes after North Korea launched eight short-range ballistic missiles toward the sea off its east coast on Sunday following a South Korea-US joint military exercise that involved an American aircraft carrier.

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South Korean military said in a statement, "Our military strongly condemns the North's series of ballistic missile provocations and sternly urges it to immediately stop acts that raise military tensions on the peninsula."

Despite facing crippling economic sanctions, Pyongyang has doubled down on upgrading its weapons programme this year.

With officials and analysts warning that the regime is preparing to carry out a fresh nuclear test, South Korea's hawkish new President Yoon Suk-yeol has vowed a tougher stance against Pyongyang's provocations.

After US President Joe Biden ended his Asia trip last month, North Korea fired three missiles, including one thought to be its largest ICBM, the Hwasong-17.

As a result, Washington imposed sanctions on several South Korean officials associated with the launch after a UN resolution do so failed due to China and Russia who vetoed the suggestion.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Seoul's military has said that in response to North Korea's weapons tests, the United States and South Korea fired eight ballistic missiles at 4:45 a.m. on Monday (1945 GMT Sunday).

Seoul's military has said that in response to North Korea's weapons tests, the United States and South Korea fired eight ballistic missiles at 4:45 a.m. on Monday (1945 GMT Sunday). Citing the South Korean military, the Yonhap news agency reported that the action is a demonstration of "the capability and readiness to carry out precision strike" against North Korea. It comes after North Korea launched eight short-range ballistic missiles toward the sea off its east coast on Sunday following a South Korea-US joint military exercise that involved an American aircraft carrier. South Korean military said in a statement, "Our military strongly condemns the North's series of ballistic missile provocations and sternly urges it to immediately stop acts that raise military tensions on the peninsula." Despite facing crippling economic sanctions, Pyongyang has doubled down on upgrading its weapons programme this year. With officials and analysts warning that the regime is preparing to carry out a fresh nuclear test, South Korea's hawkish new President Yoon Suk-yeol has vowed a tougher stance against Pyongyang's provocations. After US President Joe Biden ended his Asia trip last month, North Korea fired three missiles, including one thought to be its largest ICBM, the Hwasong-17. As a result, Washington imposed sanctions on several South Korean officials associated with the launch after a UN resolution do so failed due to China and Russia who vetoed the suggestion. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

In response to North Korea's weapons tests, US, South Korea launch eight ballistic missiles

South Korea and the United States staged their first combined military drill involving an American aircraft carrier since 2017. On the other side, North Korea shows signs of resuming nuclear tests.

South Korea & US conduct military drills to deter North Korea

According to reports, 42.4% of the population is malnourished in North Korea. On the other side, unchecked spread of the virus in North Korea could be problematic, as the first covid case was reported on May 12th.

North Korea: Kim Jong-Un declares 'Gravest national emergency'

North Korea test-fires 8 ballistic missiles as US, South Korea wrap up 3-day joint drills

The South Korea military believes that North Korea has launched at least one ballistic missile off its east coast on Sunday. The missile test came just hours after South Korea and the United States wrapped up their first joint military drill involving a US aircraft carrier in more than four years, according to AFP. It was also confirmed by the Japanese Coastguard who cited the defence ministry and said that “possible ballistic missiles” were launched on Pyongyang’s orders. Earlier, North Korea has expressed its displeasure at the joint drills conducted by South Korea and the United States by calling them “rehearsals for invasion” and the launch is being seen as an answer to the drills.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-detained-in-hong-kong-amid-ban-on-tiananmen-anniversary-gatherings-485106" hreflang="en">Several detained in Hong Kong amid ban on Tiananmen anniversary gatherings</a>

"North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile(s) into the East Sea," Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said on Sunday according to AFP.

This is the second time in two months that North Korea has conducted a missile test. Last month, they test-fired three missiles, including the Hwasong-17 – possibly the largest intercontinental ballistic missile in its arsenal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-texas-massacre-to-tulsa-shooting-why-us-gun-violence-spikes-in-warm-weather-485152" hreflang="en">From Texas massacre to Tulsa shooting: Why US gun violence spikes in warm weather</a>

This is all being considered to be a show of power amidst the three-day drill conducted by Seoul and Washington. It was conducted on the USS Ronald Reagan and it was the first joint drill since Yoon Suk-yeol became the president of South Korea.

"The exercise consolidated the two countries' determination to sternly respond to any North Korean provocations, while demonstrating the US commitment to provide extended deterrence," the Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement according to the AFP report.

(With inputs from agencies)

The South Korea military believes that North Korea has launched at least one ballistic missile off its east coast on Sunday. The missile test came just hours after South Korea and the United States wrapped up their first joint military drill involving a US aircraft carrier in more than four years, according to AFP.

The South Korea military believes that North Korea has launched at least one ballistic missile off its east coast on Sunday. The missile test came just hours after South Korea and the United States wrapped up their first joint military drill involving a US aircraft carrier in more than four years, according to AFP. It was also confirmed by the Japanese Coastguard who cited the defence ministry and said that “possible ballistic missiles” were launched on Pyongyang’s orders. Earlier, North Korea has expressed its displeasure at the joint drills conducted by South Korea and the United States by calling them “rehearsals for invasion” and the launch is being seen as an answer to the drills. Also read | Several detained in Hong Kong amid ban on Tiananmen anniversary gatherings "North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile(s) into the East Sea," Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said on Sunday according to AFP. This is the second time in two months that North Korea has conducted a missile test. Last month, they test-fired three missiles, including the Hwasong-17 – possibly the largest intercontinental ballistic missile in its arsenal. Also read | From Texas massacre to Tulsa shooting: Why US gun violence spikes in warm weather This is all being considered to be a show of power amidst the three-day drill conducted by Seoul and Washington. It was conducted on the USS Ronald Reagan and it was the first joint drill since Yoon Suk-yeol became the president of South Korea. "The exercise consolidated the two countries' determination to sternly respond to any North Korean provocations, while demonstrating the US commitment to provide extended deterrence," the Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement according to the AFP report. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea test-fires ballistic missile after US, South Korea stage drills

North Korea has taken over as head of a UN body aimed at striking disarmament deals amid scorn from critics. It gained the presidency of the Conference on Disarmament because it rotates alphabetically among its 65 members.

North Korea now heads UN-backed arms control forum

After taking over the United Nations' disarmament president, North Korea has used a combative tone and skipped the diplomatic niceties.

During a session, Pyongyang's ambassador Han Tae-Song declared that "My country is still at war with the United States."

Calling it an "honour and a privilege" to hold the role, Song said, "The DPRK remains committed to contributing to global peace and disarmament and attaches importance to the work of the conference."

Voicing their outrage that unpredictable nuclear-armed North Korea is being tasked with chairing the forum, 50 countries took turns to condemn Pyongyang's actions.

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Instead of staging a walk-out, they sent lower-level representatives than the ambassadors who would typically be expected to attend.

According to a decades-old practice among the body's 65 members following the alphabetical order of country names in English, North Korea took over the rotating presidency of the Geneva-based CD.

North Korea's chairmanship would "seriously undermine the image and credibility of the United Nations," according to Hillel Neuer, executive director of UN Watch, which monitors the performance of the global body.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hypersonics-to-cruise-missiles-north-koreas-long-range-ballistic-missile-technology-461354">Also see |&nbsp;From hypersonics to cruise missiles: North Korea's long-range ballistic missile technology</a>

Marc Finaud, an expert at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy, said of North Korea's role, "This can only highlight the irrelevance of the CD in the current context."

North Korea, which appears to be preparing to conduct a new nuclear test for the first time since 2017, has tested a flurry of ballistic missiles this year which have been banned by UNSC resolutions.

The CD, which negotiates arms control and disarmament accords and focuses on the cessation of the nuclear arms race, is not a UN body but meets at UN headquarters in Geneva.

(With inputs from agencies)

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After taking over the United Nations' disarmament president, North Korea has used a combative tone and skipped the diplomatic niceties. During a session, Pyongyang's ambassador Han Tae-Song declared that "My country is still at war with the United States.

After taking over the United Nations' disarmament president, North Korea has used a combative tone and skipped the diplomatic niceties. During a session, Pyongyang's ambassador Han Tae-Song declared that "My country is still at war with the United States." Calling it an "honour and a privilege" to hold the role, Song said, "The DPRK remains committed to contributing to global peace and disarmament and attaches importance to the work of the conference." Voicing their outrage that unpredictable nuclear-armed North Korea is being tasked with chairing the forum, 50 countries took turns to condemn Pyongyang's actions. Instead of staging a walk-out, they sent lower-level representatives than the ambassadors who would typically be expected to attend. According to a decades-old practice among the body's 65 members following the alphabetical order of country names in English, North Korea took over the rotating presidency of the Geneva-based CD. North Korea's chairmanship would "seriously undermine the image and credibility of the United Nations," according to Hillel Neuer, executive director of UN Watch, which monitors the performance of the global body. Also see | From hypersonics to cruise missiles: North Korea's long-range ballistic missile technology Marc Finaud, an expert at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy, said of North Korea's role, "This can only highlight the irrelevance of the CD in the current context." North Korea, which appears to be preparing to conduct a new nuclear test for the first time since 2017, has tested a flurry of ballistic missiles this year which have been banned by UNSC resolutions. The CD, which negotiates arms control and disarmament accords and focuses on the cessation of the nuclear arms race, is not a UN body but meets at UN headquarters in Geneva. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

North Korea uses combative tone as it takes helm of world disarmament body

The World Health Organization lamented Wednesday that it had no access to data about North Korea's Covid-19 outbreak, but assumed the crisis was deepening, contrary to Pyongyang's reports of "progress".

North Korea, which announced its first ever coronavirus cases on May 12, said last week its Covid outbreak had been brought under control, with state media reporting falling caseloads.

But WHO emergency director Michael Ryan questioned that claim.

"We assume that the situation is getting worse, not better," he told reporters, acknowledging though that the secretive totalitarian state had provided only very limited information.

"Right now we are not in a position to make an adequate risk assessment of the situation on the ground," he said, pointing out that "it is very, very difficult to provide a proper analysis to the world when we don't have access to the necessary data."

Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO's lead on Covid-19, meanwhile, said the country had registered more than three million suspected Covid cases, although the official accounts only mention cases of "fever".

Watch | Coronavirus spread in North Korea: Kim Jong Un calls it ‘great turmoil’ | Key details

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The state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported early Thursday some 96,600 "fevered cases" in 24 hours, for a total of 3.8 million cases since late April. No new deaths were announced, with 69 fatalities as of late last week.

It was the third consecutive daily tally of less than 100,000, down from a high of 390,000 daily cases in mid-May, South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported.

Despite having one of the worst health systems in the world, KCNA reported Thursday that more than 95 percent of cases had recovered.

"There are many recoveries that have been reported, but there's limited information that we have from the country currently," Van Kerkhove said.

North Korea has also rejected jabs offered by the WHO and not vaccinated any of its roughly 25 million people.

Ryan stressed the importance of reining in the outbreak in the impoverished country.

"We have offered assistance on multiple occasions. We have offered vaccines on three separate occasions. We continue to offer," he said.

He said the UN health agency was working with China and South Korea in a bid to get aid in, hailing "a very positive attitude towards trying to deal with this &nbsp;collective problem."

The WHO has repeatedly cautioned against allowing the virus that causes Covid-19 to spread unchecked, among other things since it then is more likely to mutate and produce new, potentially more dangerous variants.

"We do not wish to see intense transmission of this disease in a mainly susceptible population, in a health system that has already weakened," Ryan said.

"This is not this is not good for the people of (North Korea). This is not good for the region. This is not good for the world."

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The World Health Organization lamented Wednesday that it had no access to data about North Korea's Covid-19 outbreak, but assumed the crisis was deepening, contrary to Pyongyang's reports of "progress".

The World Health Organization lamented Wednesday that it had no access to data about North Korea's Covid-19 outbreak, but assumed the crisis was deepening, contrary to Pyongyang's reports of "progress". North Korea, which announced its first ever coronavirus cases on May 12, said last week its Covid outbreak had been brought under control, with state media reporting falling caseloads. But WHO emergency director Michael Ryan questioned that claim. "We assume that the situation is getting worse, not better," he told reporters, acknowledging though that the secretive totalitarian state had provided only very limited information. "Right now we are not in a position to make an adequate risk assessment of the situation on the ground," he said, pointing out that "it is very, very difficult to provide a proper analysis to the world when we don't have access to the necessary data." Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO's lead on Covid-19, meanwhile, said the country had registered more than three million suspected Covid cases, although the official accounts only mention cases of "fever". Watch | Coronavirus spread in North Korea: Kim Jong Un calls it ‘great turmoil’ | Key details The state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported early Thursday some 96,600 "fevered cases" in 24 hours, for a total of 3.8 million cases since late April. No new deaths were announced, with 69 fatalities as of late last week. It was the third consecutive daily tally of less than 100,000, down from a high of 390,000 daily cases in mid-May, South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported. Despite having one of the worst health systems in the world, KCNA reported Thursday that more than 95 percent of cases had recovered. "There are many recoveries that have been reported, but there's limited information that we have from the country currently," Van Kerkhove said. North Korea has also rejected jabs offered by the WHO and not vaccinated any of its roughly 25 million people. Ryan stressed the importance of reining in the outbreak in the impoverished country. "We have offered assistance on multiple occasions. We have offered vaccines on three separate occasions. We continue to offer," he said. He said the UN health agency was working with China and South Korea in a bid to get aid in, hailing "a very positive attitude towards trying to deal with this collective problem." The WHO has repeatedly cautioned against allowing the virus that causes Covid-19 to spread unchecked, among other things since it then is more likely to mutate and produce new, potentially more dangerous variants. "We do not wish to see intense transmission of this disease in a mainly susceptible population, in a health system that has already weakened," Ryan said. "This is not this is not good for the people of (North Korea). This is not good for the region. This is not good for the world." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Covid situation 'getting worse, not better' in North Korea, says WHO

The World Health Organization (WHO) has cast doubts on North Korea`s claims of progress in the fight against a Covid-19 outbreak, saying it believes the situation is getting worse, not better, amid an absence of independent data.

Covid-19 situation in North Korea is 'getting worse, not better', says WHO

After North Korea activated its emergency prevention system amid&nbsp;the coronavirus outbreak, Kim Jong Un declared that the vaccination was an “immortal potion of love” gifted by him.

The North Korean leader made the bizarre claim reportedly through a loudspeaker. The country began vaccinating&nbsp;soldiers after reporting an outbreak earlier this month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-lifts-covid-lockdown-amid-stable-virus-situation-according-to-media-483449">Also Read:&nbsp;North Korea lifts Covid lockdown amid ‘stable’ virus situation</a>

Reports claim North Korea has reported 3.2 million coronavirus cases as Kim ordered the army to be deployed after COVID-19 cases began to mount. The state media claimed coronavirus cases had dipped with mortality rates falling.

Last week North Korea had reported 100,000 new cases of "fever" with 69 deaths with fatality rate at 0.002 per cent. North Korea had earlier rejected vaccines from the World Health Organisation(WHO) and refused to seek help from neighbouring South Korea.

Watch:&nbsp;Biden offers message to North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un

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US President Joe Biden had also offered vaccines to Kim's regime but the US government said it had not received any response.

Amid the outbreak, North Korean officials activated the country's hospital services while claiming that various types of medicines were sent to different parts of the country.

According to reports, North Korea had sent planes to China to pick up medical supplies to combat the virus after the Xi regime offered assistance to its neighbour

South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported North Korea had sent IL-76 transport cargo planes to China to pick up medical supplies.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

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After North Korea activated its emergency prevention system amid the coronavirus outbreak, Kim Jong Un declared that the vaccination was an “immortal potion of love” gifted by him.

After North Korea activated its emergency prevention system amid the coronavirus outbreak, Kim Jong Un declared that the vaccination was an “immortal potion of love” gifted by him. The North Korean leader made the bizarre claim reportedly through a loudspeaker. The country began vaccinating soldiers after reporting an outbreak earlier this month. Also Read: North Korea lifts Covid lockdown amid ‘stable’ virus situation Reports claim North Korea has reported 3.2 million coronavirus cases as Kim ordered the army to be deployed after COVID-19 cases began to mount. The state media claimed coronavirus cases had dipped with mortality rates falling. Last week North Korea had reported 100,000 new cases of "fever" with 69 deaths with fatality rate at 0.002 per cent. North Korea had earlier rejected vaccines from the World Health Organisation(WHO) and refused to seek help from neighbouring South Korea. Watch: Biden offers message to North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un US President Joe Biden had also offered vaccines to Kim's regime but the US government said it had not received any response. Amid the outbreak, North Korean officials activated the country's hospital services while claiming that various types of medicines were sent to different parts of the country. According to reports, North Korea had sent planes to China to pick up medical supplies to combat the virus after the Xi regime offered assistance to its neighbour South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported North Korea had sent IL-76 transport cargo planes to China to pick up medical supplies. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Immortal potion of love': Kim Jong Un's message on vaccines to North Koreans

North Korea withdrew virus lockdown measures in its capital that had been in place for more than two weeks after leader Kim Jong Un's policies were said to have controlled the country's first Covid-19 outbreak.According to diplomatic sources quoted by Yonhap News Agency of South Korea on Monday (May 30), Kim's administration has partially removed the lockdown in Pyongyang and reduced restrictions in "stabilised regions."

Pyongyang residents were allowed to leave their houses for the first time since May 12 and businesses were progressively reopening, according to sources in the isolated state quoted by NK News on Sunday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-the-first-time-new-fever-cases-drop-to-under-10000-in-north-korea-482783">For the first time, new fever cases drop to under 10,000 in North Korea &nbsp;</a>

North Korea has refused to accept foreign help with the pandemic or to verify any of its numbers for the public health catastrophe, which might have swamped the country's ageing medical infrastructure and put Kim's leadership in jeopardy. It and Eritrea are the only two countries that haven't given their citizens vaccines, putting them at risk.

Kim lifted the lockdown hours after heading a Politburo meeting on Sunday, according to NK News. The same day, the state's official media said that "the pandemic situation is being handled and improved across the country," while another report claimed that daily cases have dropped by roughly 75 per cent&nbsp;from a peak of 392,920 two weeks ago.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Covid cases are 'exploding' in North Korea

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"Temperature checks, hand sanitizer, and following the directions of pandemic response professionals" are still essential, according to NK News.

North Korea has not labelled the hundreds of thousands of fever cases as "Covid," owing to a lack of testing kits to confirm that the cases are coronavirus-related.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-experts-express-disbelief-as-north-korea-reports-unbelievable-fatality-rate-of-0002-482679">COVID-19: Experts express disbelief as North Korea reports unbelievable fatality rate of 0.002%</a>

Kim mobilised troops to try to stem the spread of what the government calls a "malicious" epidemic, and his propaganda machine went into overdrive in an effort to stop it. Mr Kim has been portrayed in state media as pushing ahead with pandemic control efforts and blaming any failures on cadres who have not obeyed his orders.

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North Korea withdrew virus lockdown measures in its capital that had been in place for more than two weeks after leader Kim Jong Un's policies were said to have controlled the country's first Covid-19 outbreak.

North Korea withdrew virus lockdown measures in its capital that had been in place for more than two weeks after leader Kim Jong Un's policies were said to have controlled the country's first Covid-19 outbreak.According to diplomatic sources quoted by Yonhap News Agency of South Korea on Monday (May 30), Kim's administration has partially removed the lockdown in Pyongyang and reduced restrictions in "stabilised regions." Pyongyang residents were allowed to leave their houses for the first time since May 12 and businesses were progressively reopening, according to sources in the isolated state quoted by NK News on Sunday. Also read | For the first time, new fever cases drop to under 10,000 in North Korea North Korea has refused to accept foreign help with the pandemic or to verify any of its numbers for the public health catastrophe, which might have swamped the country's ageing medical infrastructure and put Kim's leadership in jeopardy. It and Eritrea are the only two countries that haven't given their citizens vaccines, putting them at risk. Kim lifted the lockdown hours after heading a Politburo meeting on Sunday, according to NK News. The same day, the state's official media said that "the pandemic situation is being handled and improved across the country," while another report claimed that daily cases have dropped by roughly 75 per cent from a peak of 392,920 two weeks ago. Watch | Gravitas: Covid cases are 'exploding' in North Korea "Temperature checks, hand sanitizer, and following the directions of pandemic response professionals" are still essential, according to NK News. North Korea has not labelled the hundreds of thousands of fever cases as "Covid," owing to a lack of testing kits to confirm that the cases are coronavirus-related. Also read | COVID-19: Experts express disbelief as North Korea reports unbelievable fatality rate of 0.002% Kim mobilised troops to try to stem the spread of what the government calls a "malicious" epidemic, and his propaganda machine went into overdrive in an effort to stop it. Mr Kim has been portrayed in state media as pushing ahead with pandemic control efforts and blaming any failures on cadres who have not obeyed his orders. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

North Korea lifts Covid lockdown amid ‘stable’ virus situation, according to media

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