In the fourth missile test this year, North Korea has fired two suspected shot range ballistic missiles. South Korea's military reported that the missiles were fired from an airport in Pyongyang.

North Korea test fires fourth missile in a month

In Pics- Kim's North Korea holds mass rally in show of political loyalty

Pyongyang has issued fresh diktats to its citizens. For 11 days, North Koreans can't drink alcohol, go out shopping or laugh. Palki Sharma tells you why.

Gravitas: North Koreans can not laugh for 11 days

People in North Korea are starving. Kim Jong Un has come up with a bizarre solution. Pyongyang wants North Koreans to eat black swans. Palki Sharma has more.

Gravitas: Pyongyang wants North Koreans to eat black swan

The influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Friday said it was "admirable" of the South to propose a formal end to the Korean War but demanded Seoul first drop its "hostile policies" towards Pyongyang.

Kim Yo Jong's remarks, carried by Pyongyang's official KCNA news agency, were in response to South Korean President Moon Jae-in's recent calls for declaring an official end to the 1950-53 conflict that ended in a truce, not a peace treaty, leaving the two sides technically at war for more than half a century.

In a speech at the UN General Assembly earlier this week, Moon proposed the declaration of an end to the conflict that broke out 71 years ago, stressing such an act would "make irreversible progress in denuclearisation and usher in an era of complete peace".

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-clothing-brand-faces-heat-over-inappropriate-messages-anti-india-depictions-printed-on-kids-shirts-415605">Chinese clothing brand faces heat over inappropriate messages, anti-India depictions printed on kids' shirts</a>

Kim, a key policy adviser to her brother Kim Jong Un, said it was an "admirable idea" to propose a formal end to the war but insisted the South should remove its hostile attitude first.

Making such a declaration with "double-dealing standards, prejudice and hostile policies" still in place "does not make any sense," she said.

"For the termination of the war to be declared, respect for each other should be maintained and prejudiced viewpoint, inveterate hostile policy and unequal double standards must be removed first," she said.

She added making such a declaration would "hold no water and would change nothing" under current conditions.&nbsp;

But the North would be willing to have talks on improving ties with Seoul if the South withdrew hostility "after breaking with the past when it often provoked us".&nbsp;

ALSO READ&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-says-uks-boris-johnson-offered-to-re-establish-cooperation-415593">France says UK's Boris Johnson offered to 're-establish cooperation'</a>

Kim Yo Jong last week accused Moon of "slander" after both Koreas carried out missile launches.

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;carried out two missile firings this month alone, one involving a long-range cruise missile and the other short-range ballistic missiles.

Moon described Pyongyang's recent launches as "provocations" when he oversaw &nbsp;a successful test-firing of a submarine launched ballistic missile (SLBM) last week, making the South one of a handful of nations with the advanced technology.

That prompted Kim Yo Jong to condemn Seoul's "illogical attitude that describes their similar behaviour as a legitimate action to support peace, and ours as a threat to peace".

Communications between the North and South have largely been cut in the aftermath of a second US-North summit in Hanoi that collapsed in February 2019&nbsp;as then-president Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un couldn't agree on the terms of an agreement.

The influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Friday said it was "admirable" of the South to propose a formal end to the Korean War but demanded Seoul first drop its "hostile policies" towards Pyongyang.

The influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Friday said it was "admirable" of the South to propose a formal end to the Korean War but demanded Seoul first drop its "hostile policies" towards Pyongyang. Kim Yo Jong's remarks, carried by Pyongyang's official KCNA news agency, were in response to South Korean President Moon Jae-in's recent calls for declaring an official end to the 1950-53 conflict that ended in a truce, not a peace treaty, leaving the two sides technically at war for more than half a century. In a speech at the UN General Assembly earlier this week, Moon proposed the declaration of an end to the conflict that broke out 71 years ago, stressing such an act would "make irreversible progress in denuclearisation and usher in an era of complete peace". ALSO READ | Chinese clothing brand faces heat over inappropriate messages, anti-India depictions printed on kids' shirts Kim, a key policy adviser to her brother Kim Jong Un, said it was an "admirable idea" to propose a formal end to the war but insisted the South should remove its hostile attitude first. Making such a declaration with "double-dealing standards, prejudice and hostile policies" still in place "does not make any sense," she said. "For the termination of the war to be declared, respect for each other should be maintained and prejudiced viewpoint, inveterate hostile policy and unequal double standards must be removed first," she said. She added making such a declaration would "hold no water and would change nothing" under current conditions. But the North would be willing to have talks on improving ties with Seoul if the South withdrew hostility "after breaking with the past when it often provoked us". ALSO READ | France says UK's Boris Johnson offered to 're-establish cooperation' Kim Yo Jong last week accused Moon of "slander" after both Koreas carried out missile launches. North Korea carried out two missile firings this month alone, one involving a long-range cruise missile and the other short-range ballistic missiles. Moon described Pyongyang's recent launches as "provocations" when he oversaw a successful test-firing of a submarine launched ballistic missile (SLBM) last week, making the South one of a handful of nations with the advanced technology. That prompted Kim Yo Jong to condemn Seoul's "illogical attitude that describes their similar behaviour as a legitimate action to support peace, and ours as a threat to peace". Communications between the North and South have largely been cut in the aftermath of a second US-North summit in Hanoi that collapsed in February 2019 as then-president Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un couldn't agree on the terms of an agreement.

North Korea leader's sister Kim Yo Jong demands South drop 'hostile policies'

The UN atomic agency has said that North Korea appears to have restarted its plutonium-producing reprocessing reactor, a possible sign that Pyongyang is expanding its banned weapons program.

IAEA: North Korea seems to have restarted nuclear reactor

Pyongyang sweltered on Wednesday as state media issued warnings about a heatwave across&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea.

This summer the country has recorded higher-than-average temperatures that are hovering around 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) in the capital.

Residents strolling Pyongyang's main streets on Wednesday beat the heat with umbrellas and hand-held fans. Some cooled off by eating a bowl of shaved ice with sweet toppings, a traditional summer dessert.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pictures-heatwaves-strike-around-the-world-scientists-say-expect-more-156821">In pictures: Heatwaves strike around the world, scientists say expect more</a>

Despite the sizzling climate, everyone sweated it out in face masks to prevent the spread of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>.

Most homes in impoverished&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;do not have air conditioning, with data suggesting that only a quarter of the population has access to electricity.

State media has issued a series of warnings about the dangerously high temperatures over the past week.

"Officials and working people in all the fields and regions across the country have turned out in the campaign for preventing the damage from fierce heat and drought," the Rodong Sinmun newspaper said last week.

The paper added that forestry officials should be on the lookout for wildfires, and agricultural workers should watch out for pests and other heat-related crop damage.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/use-superior-language-not-souths-slang-kim-jong-uns-north-korea-warns-young-people-399036">Use 'superior' language, not South's slang: Kim Jong-un's North Korea warns young people</a>

A health official told state-run KCTV last week that&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;expected another heatwave at the end of the month.

Natural disasters tend to have a greater impact on the country due to its weak infrastructure, while deforestation has left it vulnerable to flooding.

A series of typhoons last summer triggered floods that damaged farmland and destroyed thousands of homes.

Last month,&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korean leader Kim Jong Un admitted that the country's food supply situation was "getting tense" due to the lingering typhoon damage, and called for steps to minimise the impact of natural disasters.

Pyongyang sweltered on Wednesday as state media issued warnings about a heatwave across North Korea. This summer the country has recorded higher-than-average temperatures that are hovering around 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) in the capital.

Pyongyang sweltered on Wednesday as state media issued warnings about a heatwave across North Korea. This summer the country has recorded higher-than-average temperatures that are hovering around 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) in the capital. Residents strolling Pyongyang's main streets on Wednesday beat the heat with umbrellas and hand-held fans. Some cooled off by eating a bowl of shaved ice with sweet toppings, a traditional summer dessert. Also read | In pictures: Heatwaves strike around the world, scientists say expect more Despite the sizzling climate, everyone sweated it out in face masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Most homes in impoverished North Korea do not have air conditioning, with data suggesting that only a quarter of the population has access to electricity. State media has issued a series of warnings about the dangerously high temperatures over the past week. "Officials and working people in all the fields and regions across the country have turned out in the campaign for preventing the damage from fierce heat and drought," the Rodong Sinmun newspaper said last week. The paper added that forestry officials should be on the lookout for wildfires, and agricultural workers should watch out for pests and other heat-related crop damage. Also read | Use 'superior' language, not South's slang: Kim Jong-un's North Korea warns young people A health official told state-run KCTV last week that North Korea expected another heatwave at the end of the month. Natural disasters tend to have a greater impact on the country due to its weak infrastructure, while deforestation has left it vulnerable to flooding. A series of typhoons last summer triggered floods that damaged farmland and destroyed thousands of homes. Last month, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un admitted that the country's food supply situation was "getting tense" due to the lingering typhoon damage, and called for steps to minimise the impact of natural disasters.

North Korea's capital swelters in heatwave

Almost a day after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/defector-group-launches-anti-north-korea-leaflets-despite-ban-381740">defector group</a> launched anti-North Korea leaflets, Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo-jong, has warned South Korea about the incident.

On April 30, Park Sang-hak, an activist who had led a similar campaign in 2000, announced that he launched 10 advertising balloons carrying 500,000 leaflets, 500 mini booklets and nearly 5,000 $1 bills in border provinces. The act took place between Sunday and Thursday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-sister-kim-yo-jong-slams-south-korea-for-criticising-recent-missile-test-374160">Kim Jong Un's sister Kim Yo Jong slams South Korea for criticising recent missile test</a>

"We regard the manoeuvres committed by the human&nbsp;scum in the south&nbsp;as a serious provocation against our state and will look into an action corresponding to them," Kim Yo-jong warned.

"We have already seriously warned the South Korean authorities of the consequences to be entailed by their wrong act of giving a silent approval to the human scum's wild moves for North-South relations," she added.

The act took place despite a ban from South Korea against spreading anti-Pyongyang literature after North Korea had warned that it will cut all communication with South Korea if any leaflets or other literature material against Kim Jong Un or the country is circulated.

Any violation of the law is punishable by up to three years in prison or 30 million won ($27,500) in fines.

Almost a day after a defector group launched anti-North Korea leaflets, Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo-jong, has warned South Korea about the incident. On April 30, Park Sang-hak, an activist who had led a similar campaign in 2000, announced that he launched 10 advertising balloons carrying 500,000 leaflets, 500 mini booklets and nearly 5,000 $1 bills in border provinces.

Almost a day after a defector group launched anti-North Korea leaflets, Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo-jong, has warned South Korea about the incident. On April 30, Park Sang-hak, an activist who had led a similar campaign in 2000, announced that he launched 10 advertising balloons carrying 500,000 leaflets, 500 mini booklets and nearly 5,000 $1 bills in border provinces. The act took place between Sunday and Thursday. Also read | Kim Jong Un's sister Kim Yo Jong slams South Korea for criticising recent missile test "We regard the manoeuvres committed by the human scum in the south as a serious provocation against our state and will look into an action corresponding to them," Kim Yo-jong warned. "We have already seriously warned the South Korean authorities of the consequences to be entailed by their wrong act of giving a silent approval to the human scum's wild moves for North-South relations," she added. The act took place despite a ban from South Korea against spreading anti-Pyongyang literature after North Korea had warned that it will cut all communication with South Korea if any leaflets or other literature material against Kim Jong Un or the country is circulated. Any violation of the law is punishable by up to three years in prison or 30 million won ($27,500) in fines.

Kim Jong Un's sister warns South Korea after anti-North Korea leaflets circulated

North Korea has not responded to BTS diplomatic outreach since mid-February by the United States President Joe Biden’s administration, including Pyongyang’s mission to the UN. Joe Biden has also called Kim Jong Un a thug on the campaign trail.

North Korea ignoring United States President Joe Biden's outreach

Joe Biden came to office promising a complete review of America's North Korea policy. But it seems he's already hit the first roadblock. There is radio silence from North Korea, Pyongyang has so far ignored all advances made by the Biden administration.

North Korea ignoring Biden administration's outreach

What happens in North Korea - always remains shrouded in mystery. Pyongyang insists it has no Wuhan virus cases. Then, why did it try to steal vaccine data from US pharma company Pfizer? WION's Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Did North Korea try to steal data from Pfizer?

A North Korean food processing factory has set a major business strategy to develop new 'world-level' products, the North's state news agency KCNA said on Tuesday (December 15).

North Korean food factory aims to develop new 'world-level products,' KCNA says 

North Korea staged a slew of colourful performances on Monday (November 16) to celebrate Mother's Day. In a video provided by the North's official news agency KCNA, North Koreans in face masks were seen watching various performance segments put on by an orchestra and dancers at the East Pyongyang Grand Theatre.

North Korea celebrates Mother's Day with concert

The North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has gone missing yet again. It has been 23 days now since the leader was last spotted by the public, or officials other than his close aides.

Kim Jong Un was last seen on October 21. He had visited a cemetery in the South Pyongyang province to pay respect to the soldiers who had lost their lives while protecting the kingdom against the Chinese soldiers in the 1950-53 Korean war.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-dubs-un-nuclear-watchdog-a-dancing-marionette-of-the-west-342519">North Korea dubs UN nuclear watchdog a 'dancing marionette of the West'</a>

However, this time, the officials from his administration have not raised an alarm on his disappearance from the pubic eye, and the reason is his past record. Kin Jong Un is known for disappearing from the public eye from time to time. The last time he was not seen for such a long time was in April 2020. Alarms were raised about his health and the international news media had debated about a decline in the leader's health. The situation was thought to be so serious that it was also being sought who would take Kim Jong Un's place if he is deemed unfit for the chair of the leader of the country. However, the leader emerged fit after a few days and attended a ceremony marking the completion of a fertilizer factory, almost a month later.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/satellite-images-suggest-north-korea-may-be-preparing-to-launch-submarine-missile-us-think-tank-325354">Satellite images suggest North Korea may be preparing to launch submarine missile</a>

However, this time, officials claim nothing like that has happened.&nbsp;"We do not attach any special meaning to it as he has gone absent from public view for more than 20 days several times based on past records," the Unification Ministry official said on Thursday.

Kim Jong Un has recently been in the news for&nbsp;row over disappearing of a South Korean official who was reportedly disposed off by Kim Jong Un's soldiers in the sea near the border. The North Korean leader had also apologies, in a rare moment,&nbsp;&nbsp;and had assured an thorough investigation into the matter.

The North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has gone missing yet again. It has been 23 days now since the leader was last spotted by the public, or officials other than his close aides.

The North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has gone missing yet again. It has been 23 days now since the leader was last spotted by the public, or officials other than his close aides. Kim Jong Un was last seen on October 21. He had visited a cemetery in the South Pyongyang province to pay respect to the soldiers who had lost their lives while protecting the kingdom against the Chinese soldiers in the 1950-53 Korean war. Also read| North Korea dubs UN nuclear watchdog a 'dancing marionette of the West' However, this time, the officials from his administration have not raised an alarm on his disappearance from the pubic eye, and the reason is his past record. Kin Jong Un is known for disappearing from the public eye from time to time. The last time he was not seen for such a long time was in April 2020. Alarms were raised about his health and the international news media had debated about a decline in the leader's health. The situation was thought to be so serious that it was also being sought who would take Kim Jong Un's place if he is deemed unfit for the chair of the leader of the country. However, the leader emerged fit after a few days and attended a ceremony marking the completion of a fertilizer factory, almost a month later. Also read| Satellite images suggest North Korea may be preparing to launch submarine missile However, this time, officials claim nothing like that has happened. "We do not attach any special meaning to it as he has gone absent from public view for more than 20 days several times based on past records," the Unification Ministry official said on Thursday. Kim Jong Un has recently been in the news for row over disappearing of a South Korean official who was reportedly disposed off by Kim Jong Un's soldiers in the sea near the border. The North Korean leader had also apologies, in a rare moment, and had assured an thorough investigation into the matter.

North Korea's Kim Jong Un out of public eye for 23 days

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has addressed an unusual predawn military parade held in Pyongyang to mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of its ruling Workers’ Party.

North Korea holds anniversary parade: Kim Jong-Un addresses the nation

North Korea staged the first "Fun Stage" performance, titled "My home full of laughs", on Wednesday (October 7) in Pyongyang to celebrate the 75th founding anniversary of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK), the North's official news agency KCNA said.

Pyongyang citizens treated to first 'Fun Stage' performance ahead of party anniversary

North Korea held a stamp exhibition and a light show on Tuesday (October 6) to celebrate the 75th founding anniversary of Workers' Party of Korea (WPK).

North Korea holds stamp exhibition and light show to mark party anniversary

North Korean residents held a dancing ceremony to mark the handover of new houses after a recent Hurricane ravaged the entire country. Watch report.

North Korea: Pyongyang's state broadcaster release video of residents celebrating new homes

South Korea has repealed the permission given to two defector groups for sending anti-North leaflets across the border in the aftermath of Pyongyang furiously denouncing their activities and blowing up a liaison office. Revoking the groups' operational permits does not render them illegal, but will make it harder for them to raise money and deny them access to benefits for registered organisations.

The leaflets -- usually attached to hot air balloons or floated in bottles -- criticise North Korean leader Kim Jong-un over human rights abuses and his nuclear ambitions.

But by sending them, the two groups "severely hindered" the government's "efforts for unification", Seoul's unification ministry said in a statement.

The ministry also raised tensions on the Korean peninsula.

Inter-Korean relations have been in deep freeze following the collapse of a summit between Kim and US President Donald Trump early last year over what the nuclear-armed North would be willing to give up in exchange for a loosening of sanctions.

Both Koreas used to regularly send leaflets to the other side, but agreed to stop such propaganda activities -- including loudspeaker broadcasts along the frontier -- in the Panmunjom Declaration signed by Kim and the South's President Moon Jae-in at their first summit in 2018.

Last month Pyongyang issued a series of vitriolic condemnations of South Korea over the leaflets. It also upped the pressure by blowing up an inter-Korean liaison office on its side of the border and threatening military measures.

Seoul officials previously banned leaflet activities in border areas and filed a police complaint against the groups.

South Korea has repealed the permission given to two defector groups for sending anti-North leaflets across the border in the aftermath of Pyongyang furiously denouncing their activities and blowing up a liaison office.

South Korea has repealed the permission given to two defector groups for sending anti-North leaflets across the border in the aftermath of Pyongyang furiously denouncing their activities and blowing up a liaison office. Revoking the groups' operational permits does not render them illegal, but will make it harder for them to raise money and deny them access to benefits for registered organisations. The leaflets -- usually attached to hot air balloons or floated in bottles -- criticise North Korean leader Kim Jong-un over human rights abuses and his nuclear ambitions. But by sending them, the two groups "severely hindered" the government's "efforts for unification", Seoul's unification ministry said in a statement. The ministry also raised tensions on the Korean peninsula. Inter-Korean relations have been in deep freeze following the collapse of a summit between Kim and US President Donald Trump early last year over what the nuclear-armed North would be willing to give up in exchange for a loosening of sanctions. Both Koreas used to regularly send leaflets to the other side, but agreed to stop such propaganda activities -- including loudspeaker broadcasts along the frontier -- in the Panmunjom Declaration signed by Kim and the South's President Moon Jae-in at their first summit in 2018. Last month Pyongyang issued a series of vitriolic condemnations of South Korea over the leaflets. It also upped the pressure by blowing up an inter-Korean liaison office on its side of the border and threatening military measures. Seoul officials previously banned leaflet activities in border areas and filed a police complaint against the groups.

Seoul revokes permits of North Korean defector groups

North Korea blew up an inter-Korean liaison office on its side of the border on June 16, the South's Unification Ministry said, after days of increasingly virulent rhetoric from Pyongyang. Watch report.

N Korea to redeploy troops along border: Blows up inter-Korean liaison office

South-Korea peninsula on the boil: North Korea blows up joint liaison office

The Indian Ambassador to North Korea (DPRK) Atul Malhari Gotsurve speaking on the COVID situation in the country has said life has been normal in the country's capital Pyongyang. North Korea's official name is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Pyongyang, Ambassador Gotsurve describing the situation in the country said "shops, services, universities, schools, factories and offices" are open in the country and few Indians left the country on 9th March to Vladivostok on a flight specially arranged for foreigners by DPRK. This is the first time any Indian Ambassador to DPRK has spoken to any India based channel in past few years.

WION: How has been the ground situation in DPRK? How are Indian diplomats faring?

Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: According to the local authorities, there is no Covid- 19 case in DPRK. As per the local office of WHO, the country has carried out hundreds of tests for Covid-19 and none of them has been found to be positive. I find that life in Pyongyang is normal. Shops and services are open and so are the universities, schools, factories and offices. Public transport for locals too is functioning smoothly. Despite some difficulties created by the extraordinary Covid-19 pandemic around the world as also in DPRK, the morale of all of us at the Embassy is high.

WION: Anything about the measures taken by the DPRK Government to contain the spread?

Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: DPRK had moved very early to combat Covid-19 with several anti-pandemic measures which continue till date. The Government here took the first step of snapping all international air links with the outside world as early as 1 st February 2020. Similarly, the international land borders with China and Russia were also sealed with no one allowed to either enter or exit the country. Everyone, including diplomats who went to China in January 2020, was quarantined for a month. Any person, if allowed at all, to enter DPRK, has to undergo a 30-day quarantine at a special place designated by the local authorities. Use of face mask is compulsory for everyone, including diplomats, at all public places. Shops, restaurants, offices, factories, hospitals, etc. have the protocol to go through thermal screening and to use hand-sanitizers before entering the building. These steps seem to have shown good results in combating Covid-19.

WION: How is the Indian Mission reaching to stranded Indians, if there are any?

Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: There are no stranded Indians in DPRK. The number of the Indian diasporas is small and most of them work for UN Agencies and International Aid Organisations. The Mission is in constant touch with them at a personal level and also through social media platform on a regular basis. A few Indians left Pyongyang by a flight specially arranged for foreigners by DPRK to Vladivostok on 9 March 2020 and have reached India safely.

WION: Any plans for repatriation? 
 
Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: As of now, there is no request for repatriation from any Indian. If required, we will assist the Indian community suitably in co-ordination with the local authorities and MEA, New Delhi.

The Indian Ambassador to North Korea (DPRK) Atul Malhari Gotsurve speaking on the COVID situation in the country has said life has been normal in the country's capital Pyongyang.

The Indian Ambassador to North Korea (DPRK) Atul Malhari Gotsurve speaking on the COVID situation in the country has said life has been normal in the country's capital Pyongyang. North Korea's official name is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Pyongyang, Ambassador Gotsurve describing the situation in the country said "shops, services, universities, schools, factories and offices" are open in the country and few Indians left the country on 9th March to Vladivostok on a flight specially arranged for foreigners by DPRK. This is the first time any Indian Ambassador to DPRK has spoken to any India based channel in past few years. WION: How has been the ground situation in DPRK? How are Indian diplomats faring? Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: According to the local authorities, there is no Covid- 19 case in DPRK. As per the local office of WHO, the country has carried out hundreds of tests for Covid-19 and none of them has been found to be positive. I find that life in Pyongyang is normal. Shops and services are open and so are the universities, schools, factories and offices. Public transport for locals too is functioning smoothly. Despite some difficulties created by the extraordinary Covid-19 pandemic around the world as also in DPRK, the morale of all of us at the Embassy is high. WION: Anything about the measures taken by the DPRK Government to contain the spread? Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: DPRK had moved very early to combat Covid-19 with several anti-pandemic measures which continue till date. The Government here took the first step of snapping all international air links with the outside world as early as 1 st February 2020. Similarly, the international land borders with China and Russia were also sealed with no one allowed to either enter or exit the country. Everyone, including diplomats who went to China in January 2020, was quarantined for a month. Any person, if allowed at all, to enter DPRK, has to undergo a 30-day quarantine at a special place designated by the local authorities. Use of face mask is compulsory for everyone, including diplomats, at all public places. Shops, restaurants, offices, factories, hospitals, etc. have the protocol to go through thermal screening and to use hand-sanitizers before entering the building. These steps seem to have shown good results in combating Covid-19. WION: How is the Indian Mission reaching to stranded Indians, if there are any? Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: There are no stranded Indians in DPRK. The number of the Indian diasporas is small and most of them work for UN Agencies and International Aid Organisations. The Mission is in constant touch with them at a personal level and also through social media platform on a regular basis. A few Indians left Pyongyang by a flight specially arranged for foreigners by DPRK to Vladivostok on 9 March 2020 and have reached India safely. WION: Any plans for repatriation? Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: As of now, there is no request for repatriation from any Indian. If required, we will assist the Indian community suitably in co-ordination with the local authorities and MEA, New Delhi.

Amid Covid- 19 crisis, life in Pyongyang normal says India's envoy to North Korea

North Korean workers produced textiles at factories in Pyongyang, state media reported on Wednesday (May 27).

North Korean workers keep busy producing textiles

North Korea remains totally free of the coronavirus, a senior health official in Pyongyang has insisted, despite mounting scepticism overseas as confirmed global infections near one million.

The already isolated, nuclear-armed North quickly shut down its borders after the virus was first detected in neighbouring China in January, and imposed strict containment measures.

Pak Myong Su, director of the anti-epidemic department of the North's Central Emergency Anti-epidemic Headquarters, insisted that the efforts had been completely successful.

"Not one single person has been infected with the novel coronavirus in our country so far," Pak told AFP.

"We have carried out preemptive and scientific measures such as inspections and quarantine for all personnel entering our country and thoroughly disinfecting all goods, as well as closing borders and blocking sea and air lanes."

Nearly every other country has reported coronavirus cases, with the World Health Organization saying on Wednesday that there were nearly one million confirmed infections globally.

Aside from China, South Korea endured one of the worst early outbreaks of the virus, which has claimed more than 45,000 lives around the world.

Experts have said the North is particularly vulnerable to the virus because of its weak medical system, and defectors have accused Pyongyang of covering up an outbreak.

The top US military commander in South Korea, General Robert Abrams, said Thursday that Pyongyang's assertion it had no cases was "untrue".

"I can tell you that is an impossible claim based on all of the intel that we have seen," Abrams told VOA News.

The North's military was "locked down" for 30 days in February and early March over the epidemic, he said.

"They took draconian measures at their border crossings and inside their formations to do exactly what everybody else is doing, which is to stop the spread," he added.

US President Donald Trump said previously North Korea "is going through something" and offered "cooperation in the anti-epidemic work", in a personal letter to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

And Choi Jung-hun, a former North Korean doctor who fled to the South in 2012, told AFP: "I heard there are many deaths in North Korea but the authorities are not saying that it's caused by the coronavirus."

'Strict control'&nbsp;

As part of its anti-virus efforts Pyongyang put thousands of its own people and hundreds of foreigners -- including diplomats -- into isolation and mounted disinfection drives, with state media constantly exhorting citizens to obey health directives.

Published images have shown universal face mask use, with the exception of leader Kim, who has never been seen wearing one, even though for several weeks the officers alongside him when he supervised firing exercises donned black coverings.

More recently his aides have also been seen without face masks, although defector Choi said that did not signal the North's containment efforts had been widely successful.

Pyongyang -- which is subject to multiple international sanctions over its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes -- has sought virus-related aid.

In February, Russia's foreign ministry said it provided Pyongyang with 1,500 coronavirus diagnostic test kits at its request "due to the persisting risk of the new COVID-19".

The United Nations has granted sanctions exemptions to relief groups including Doctors without Borders and UNICEF on items such as diagnostic kits, face masks, protective equipment and disinfectants.

Both Doctors Without Borders and UNICEF -- whose shipments were requested by North Korean authorities -- said that their supplies had arrived overland from China.

"DPRK has an overall lack of medical supplies and the latest diagnostic equipment," a Doctors Without Borders spokesperson told AFP, using the initials of the country's official name.

The World Health Organisation plans to spend $900,000 to support Pyongyang's coronavirus response activities, according to data posted on the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs website.

North Korea remains totally free of the coronavirus, a senior health official in Pyongyang has insisted, despite mounting scepticism overseas as confirmed global infections near one million.

North Korea remains totally free of the coronavirus, a senior health official in Pyongyang has insisted, despite mounting scepticism overseas as confirmed global infections near one million. The already isolated, nuclear-armed North quickly shut down its borders after the virus was first detected in neighbouring China in January, and imposed strict containment measures. Pak Myong Su, director of the anti-epidemic department of the North's Central Emergency Anti-epidemic Headquarters, insisted that the efforts had been completely successful. "Not one single person has been infected with the novel coronavirus in our country so far," Pak told AFP. "We have carried out preemptive and scientific measures such as inspections and quarantine for all personnel entering our country and thoroughly disinfecting all goods, as well as closing borders and blocking sea and air lanes." Nearly every other country has reported coronavirus cases, with the World Health Organization saying on Wednesday that there were nearly one million confirmed infections globally. Aside from China, South Korea endured one of the worst early outbreaks of the virus, which has claimed more than 45,000 lives around the world. Experts have said the North is particularly vulnerable to the virus because of its weak medical system, and defectors have accused Pyongyang of covering up an outbreak. The top US military commander in South Korea, General Robert Abrams, said Thursday that Pyongyang's assertion it had no cases was "untrue". "I can tell you that is an impossible claim based on all of the intel that we have seen," Abrams told VOA News. The North's military was "locked down" for 30 days in February and early March over the epidemic, he said. "They took draconian measures at their border crossings and inside their formations to do exactly what everybody else is doing, which is to stop the spread," he added. US President Donald Trump said previously North Korea "is going through something" and offered "cooperation in the anti-epidemic work", in a personal letter to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. And Choi Jung-hun, a former North Korean doctor who fled to the South in 2012, told AFP: "I heard there are many deaths in North Korea but the authorities are not saying that it's caused by the coronavirus." 'Strict control' As part of its anti-virus efforts Pyongyang put thousands of its own people and hundreds of foreigners -- including diplomats -- into isolation and mounted disinfection drives, with state media constantly exhorting citizens to obey health directives. Published images have shown universal face mask use, with the exception of leader Kim, who has never been seen wearing one, even though for several weeks the officers alongside him when he supervised firing exercises donned black coverings. More recently his aides have also been seen without face masks, although defector Choi said that did not signal the North's containment efforts had been widely successful. Pyongyang -- which is subject to multiple international sanctions over its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes -- has sought virus-related aid. In February, Russia's foreign ministry said it provided Pyongyang with 1,500 coronavirus diagnostic test kits at its request "due to the persisting risk of the new COVID-19". The United Nations has granted sanctions exemptions to relief groups including Doctors without Borders and UNICEF on items such as diagnostic kits, face masks, protective equipment and disinfectants. Both Doctors Without Borders and UNICEF -- whose shipments were requested by North Korean authorities -- said that their supplies had arrived overland from China. "DPRK has an overall lack of medical supplies and the latest diagnostic equipment," a Doctors Without Borders spokesperson told AFP, using the initials of the country's official name. The World Health Organisation plans to spend $900,000 to support Pyongyang's coronavirus response activities, according to data posted on the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs website.

North Korea insists it is free of coronavirus

North Korean factory in Pyongyang produced new designs of training shoes for Spring season, the state's official news agency KCNA reported on Wednesday (March 18).

North Korean shoe factory produces new trainers for spring season

North Koreans paid tribute to the former leader Kim Jong Il in Pyongyang on Sunday (February 16), marking 78th birthday anniversary of the father of current North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

North Koreans mark late leader's birth anniversary in Pyongyang

North Korean Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-backs-north-korea-amid-deadlocked-nuclear-talks-247322">Ri Yong Ho</a> has been replaced, Seoul-based NK News reported on Saturday.

Ri's replacement has not been identified but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-companies-linked-to-exploiting-north-korean-overseas-labour-274281">Pyongyang</a> is set to reveal his successor about next Thursday, the report said, citing unnamed sources.

South Korea's unification ministry, which is in charge of North Korea affairs, has said that any change in Ri's status should be assessed cautiously.

Born in 1956, Ri is the son of Ri Myong Je, former deputy director of the Organization and Guidance Department (OGD), a shadowy body within the ruling Workers’ Party that oversees the appointment of management positions within the state, according to the South Korean unification ministry.

His father was also an editor at the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the state media body that publishes Pyongyang’s propaganda statements.

A fluent English speaker who studied at Pyongyang’s prestigious University of Foreign Languages, Ri has for years held a number of high-level posts dealing with the West.

From 2003 to 2007, he was North Korea’s ambassador in London and served as vice foreign minister, representing North Korea at six-party talks on North Korea's nuclear program.

Ri did not attend the annual gathering of world leaders at the United Nations in September. He had attended the high-level meeting in New York for three years from 2016 to 2018.

North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho has been replaced, Seoul-based NK News reported on Saturday. Ri's replacement has not been identified but Pyongyang is set to reveal his successor about next Thursday, the report said, citing unnamed sources.

North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho has been replaced, Seoul-based NK News reported on Saturday. Ri's replacement has not been identified but Pyongyang is set to reveal his successor about next Thursday, the report said, citing unnamed sources. South Korea's unification ministry, which is in charge of North Korea affairs, has said that any change in Ri's status should be assessed cautiously. Born in 1956, Ri is the son of Ri Myong Je, former deputy director of the Organization and Guidance Department (OGD), a shadowy body within the ruling Workers’ Party that oversees the appointment of management positions within the state, according to the South Korean unification ministry. His father was also an editor at the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the state media body that publishes Pyongyang’s propaganda statements. A fluent English speaker who studied at Pyongyang’s prestigious University of Foreign Languages, Ri has for years held a number of high-level posts dealing with the West. From 2003 to 2007, he was North Korea’s ambassador in London and served as vice foreign minister, representing North Korea at six-party talks on North Korea's nuclear program. Ri did not attend the annual gathering of world leaders at the United Nations in September. He had attended the high-level meeting in New York for three years from 2016 to 2018.

North Korean foreign minister replaced: Sources

South Korea's President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dozens-of-south-korean-mps-charged-over-parliamentary-stand-off-271713">Moon Jae-in</a> said on Tuesday that there is a "desperate need" for practical ways to improve ties with North Korea and he was ready to meet with the reclusive leader in Pyongyang repeatedly if necessary.

Moon, sidelined from his leading role in the diplomatic effort with&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea in 2018, said he regretted the past year's lack of progress in negotiations.

In an annual New Year's speech in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/faster-rockets-more-warheads-what-north-korea-could-gain-from-new-weapons-development-271619">Seoul</a>,&nbsp;Moon&nbsp;called for new talks with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-skips-set-piece-new-years-speech-271374">Kim Jong Un</a> and vowed to keep up work to facilitate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-promises-action-on-any-north-korea-missile-test-white-house-270890">US-North&nbsp;Korea</a> communication.

"In a time of deadlock in US-North&nbsp;Korea talks and where we are even concerned about a step backward in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-fires-warning-shots-towards-north-korean-merchant-vessel-264862">inter-Korean relations</a>, we are in desperate need of practical&nbsp;ways&nbsp;to&nbsp;improve&nbsp;inter-Korean cooperation," he said.

He also said he would continue to push for restarting the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-leader-kim-vows-to-clear-south-korea-relics-from-kumgang-resort-257625">Kaesong Industrial Complex</a> and tours to Mt. Kumgang, and mentioned border cooperation without elaborating. He added the joint 2032 Olympics bid would be a unifying event, as would completing the inter-Korean railroad.

"We want to make an era where separation is no longer a roadblock for peace and prosperity for&nbsp;South&nbsp;and&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea," he said.

North&nbsp;Korea has been unresponsive to other recent overtures from Seoul, and cooperation projects between the neighbors have stalled in the face of international sanctions that bar most business with the&nbsp;North.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-holds-top-party-meeting-ahead-of-us-deadline-270787">Pyongyang</a> has expressed frustration at what it calls Washington's lack of flexibility, while US&nbsp;officials say it must take more concrete steps to dismantle its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs before sanctions are eased.

"The momentum for US-North&nbsp;Korea talks must continue,"&nbsp;Moon&nbsp;said. "Provocations and threats are not helpful for anyone."

Over the New Year, Kim said he planned to further develop nuclear programs and introduce a "new strategic weapon" in the near future, though he signaled there was still room for dialogue with the United States.

Watch:&nbsp;Kim Jong-Un's plan for 2020

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Security and prosperity on the Korean peninsula are dependent on resolving international tensions, but the two Koreas could achieve progress through cooperation,&nbsp;Moon&nbsp;said.

"I suggest&nbsp;South&nbsp;and&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea put our heads together," he said.

South Korea's President Moon Jae-in said on Tuesday that there is a "desperate need" for practical ways to improve ties with North Korea and he was ready to meet with the reclusive leader in Pyongyang repeatedly if necessary.

South Korea's President Moon Jae-in said on Tuesday that there is a "desperate need" for practical ways to improve ties with North Korea and he was ready to meet with the reclusive leader in Pyongyang repeatedly if necessary. Moon, sidelined from his leading role in the diplomatic effort with North Korea in 2018, said he regretted the past year's lack of progress in negotiations. In an annual New Year's speech in Seoul, Moon called for new talks with Kim Jong Un and vowed to keep up work to facilitate US-North Korea communication. "In a time of deadlock in US-North Korea talks and where we are even concerned about a step backward in inter-Korean relations, we are in desperate need of practical ways to improve inter-Korean cooperation," he said. He also said he would continue to push for restarting the Kaesong Industrial Complex and tours to Mt. Kumgang, and mentioned border cooperation without elaborating. He added the joint 2032 Olympics bid would be a unifying event, as would completing the inter-Korean railroad. "We want to make an era where separation is no longer a roadblock for peace and prosperity for South and North Korea," he said. North Korea has been unresponsive to other recent overtures from Seoul, and cooperation projects between the neighbors have stalled in the face of international sanctions that bar most business with the North. Pyongyang has expressed frustration at what it calls Washington's lack of flexibility, while US officials say it must take more concrete steps to dismantle its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs before sanctions are eased. "The momentum for US-North Korea talks must continue," Moon said. "Provocations and threats are not helpful for anyone." Over the New Year, Kim said he planned to further develop nuclear programs and introduce a "new strategic weapon" in the near future, though he signaled there was still room for dialogue with the United States. Watch: Kim Jong-Un's plan for 2020 × Security and prosperity on the Korean peninsula are dependent on resolving international tensions, but the two Koreas could achieve progress through cooperation, Moon said. "I suggest South and North Korea put our heads together," he said.

In desperate need of practical ways to improve inter-Korean cooperation: South Korea President

The United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday condemned "the long-standing and ongoing systematic, widespread and gross violations of human rights in and by" North Korea in an annual resolution that Pyongyang's UN&nbsp;envoy rejected.

The resolution, sponsored by dozens of countries including the United States, was adopted by the 193-member General Assembly without a vote. Such resolutions are non-binding but can carry political weight.

North Korea's UN&nbsp;Ambassador <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-security-council-to-meet-over-north-korea-on-wednesday-at-us-request-267389">Kim Song</a> told the General Assembly that the resolution has "nothing to do with the genuine promotion and protection of human rights, as it is an impure product of political plots by hostile forces that seek to tarnish the dignity and image of the DPRK and overthrow our social system."

North Korea's official name is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).

A landmark 2014 UN&nbsp;report on North Korean human rights concluded that North Korean security chiefs - and possibly leader Kim Jong Un himself - should face justice for overseeing a state-controlled system of Nazi-style atrocities.

Then in 2016, the United States <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-calls-united-states-biden-a-rabid-dog-nearing-death-262205">angered North Korea</a> by blacklisting Kim for human rights abuses.

Earlier this month at least eight UN&nbsp;Security Council members pushed for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-biegun-to-north-korea-were-here-you-know-how-to-reach-us-268526">meeting</a> on human rights abuses in North Korea. Pyongyang responded that it would consider such a move a "serious provocation" to which it would "respond strongly."

Diplomats said a meeting would have prompted China to call a vote to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-can-censor-ozil-but-cannot-hide-human-rights-violations-against-uighurs-pompeo-268791">stop it</a>, even though it would not have enough support.

But the United States, which is president of the Security Council for December, decided to convene a meeting that instead focused on concerns that North Korea could resume nuclear or long-range missile testing,&nbsp;suspended since 2017, because <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/denuclearisation-off-negotiating-table-with-us-north-koreas-un-envoy-266892">denuclearization talks </a>between Pyongyang and Washington have stalled.

On Monday, China and Russia proposed the 15-member Council lift a ban on North Korea exporting statues, seafood and textiles, and ease restrictions on infrastructure projects and North Koreans working overseas, according to a draft resolution seen by Reuters.

A US&nbsp;State Department official said on Monday that now was not the time to consider lifting UN&nbsp;sanctions on North Korea.

The United States, Britain and France have insisted that no UN&nbsp;sanctions should be lifted until North Korea takes concrete steps to give up its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Pyongyang has been subject to UN&nbsp;sanctions because of those programs since 2006.

The United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday condemned "the long-standing and ongoing systematic, widespread and gross violations of human rights in and by" North Korea in an annual resolution that Pyongyang's UN envoy rejected.

The United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday condemned "the long-standing and ongoing systematic, widespread and gross violations of human rights in and by" North Korea in an annual resolution that Pyongyang's UN envoy rejected. The resolution, sponsored by dozens of countries including the United States, was adopted by the 193-member General Assembly without a vote. Such resolutions are non-binding but can carry political weight. North Korea's UN Ambassador Kim Song told the General Assembly that the resolution has "nothing to do with the genuine promotion and protection of human rights, as it is an impure product of political plots by hostile forces that seek to tarnish the dignity and image of the DPRK and overthrow our social system." North Korea's official name is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). A landmark 2014 UN report on North Korean human rights concluded that North Korean security chiefs - and possibly leader Kim Jong Un himself - should face justice for overseeing a state-controlled system of Nazi-style atrocities. Then in 2016, the United States angered North Korea by blacklisting Kim for human rights abuses. Earlier this month at least eight UN Security Council members pushed for a meeting on human rights abuses in North Korea. Pyongyang responded that it would consider such a move a "serious provocation" to which it would "respond strongly." Diplomats said a meeting would have prompted China to call a vote to stop it, even though it would not have enough support. But the United States, which is president of the Security Council for December, decided to convene a meeting that instead focused on concerns that North Korea could resume nuclear or long-range missile testing, suspended since 2017, because denuclearization talks between Pyongyang and Washington have stalled. On Monday, China and Russia proposed the 15-member Council lift a ban on North Korea exporting statues, seafood and textiles, and ease restrictions on infrastructure projects and North Koreans working overseas, according to a draft resolution seen by Reuters. A US State Department official said on Monday that now was not the time to consider lifting UN sanctions on North Korea. The United States, Britain and France have insisted that no UN sanctions should be lifted until North Korea takes concrete steps to give up its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Pyongyang has been subject to UN sanctions because of those programs since 2006.

UN condemns North Korea rights abuses, Pyongyang rejects resolution

The top US representative in talks with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-interested-in-meaningless-talks-just-so-trump-can-boast-north-korea-262928">North Korea</a> on Monday slammed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-warns-of-retaliation-against-us-south-korea-military-drills-261949">Pyongyang</a>'s demands as hostile and unnecessary as its end-of-year deadline approaches but held open the door for fresh negotiations.

The North has insisted that Washington offer it new concessions by the end of 2019 with the process largely deadlocked since the collapse of a summit in Hanoi in February.

Pyongyang has issued a series of increasingly strident declarations in recent weeks, and US special representative Stephen Biegun told reporters in Seoul: "We have heard them all."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics%3A-china-provides-top-security-to-north-korean-leader-kim-jong-un-145914">In Pictures: China provides top security to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un</a>

"Regrettably, the tone of these statements towards the United States, the Republic of Korea, Japan and our friends in Europe have been so hostile and negative and so unnecessary," he said.

"The US does not have a deadline, we have a goal."

Tensions between the US and the nuclear-armed North — whose forces and their allies fought each other to a standstill in the 1950-53 Korean War — reached a peak in 2017, with their leaders Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un trading mutual insults and threats of renewed conflict.

A rapid diplomatic detente followed, climaxing with the Singapore summit when the two men signed a vague statement on denuclearisation, but Washington still stations 28,500 troops in South Korea to protect its ally from a new invasion by its neighbour.

Pyongyang has said that if Washington fails to make it an acceptable offer, it will adopt a so far unspecified "new way".

It has carried out a series of static tests at its Sohae rocket facility this month, after several weapons launches in recent weeks, some of them described as ballistic missiles by Japan and others -- which Pyongyang is banned from testing under UN sanctions.

Biegun, who also met Monday with South Korean President Moon Jae-in, said the US was "fully aware of the strong potential for North Korea to conduct a major provocation in the days ahead".

"To say the least, such an action will be most unhelpful in achieving lasting peace on the Korean peninsula," he added.

Directly addressing "our counterparts in North Korea", he went on: "It is time for us to do our jobs. Let's get this done. We are here and you know how to reach us."

'Christmas gift'

The US envoy's tone was "unusually strong", said Shin Beom-chul, an analyst at the Asan Institute of Policy Studies in Seoul, adding that his ruling out Kim's year-end deadline will infuriate Pyongyang.

"The key message was that there will be no more concessions from the US and that it won't be dragged around," Shin told AFP.

Frustrated by the lack of sanctions relief after it declared a moratorium on nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) tests, North Korea has vowed an ominous "Christmas gift" if Washington does not come up with concessions.

Some analysts have pointed to an ICBM launch, while others suggest a possible space launch — which critics would be likely to interpret as a disguised ICBM test.

In 2017, the North tested missiles that brought the whole of the US mainland into range, and experts say that it has continued its research programmes ever since.

Without mentioning the North's possible Christmas present, Biegun wished "all of the Korean people" happy holidays.

"As always, it is our fervent prayer and hopes that this day will usher in a season of peace. I hope all would agree with that sentiment," he said.

Pyongyang has also threatened to resume referring to Trump as a "dotard" — the derisive insult Kim lobbed at the US leader in 2017 — and warned that if the US uses military force against it, it would take "prompt corresponding actions at any level".

At the recent NATO summit, Trump boasted about Washington's "most powerful military", adding: "Hopefully, we don't have to use it, but if we do, we'll use it. If we have to, we'll do it."

The top US representative in talks with North Korea on Monday slammed Pyongyang's demands as hostile and unnecessary as its end-of-year deadline approaches but held open the door for fresh negotiations.

The top US representative in talks with North Korea on Monday slammed Pyongyang's demands as hostile and unnecessary as its end-of-year deadline approaches but held open the door for fresh negotiations. The North has insisted that Washington offer it new concessions by the end of 2019 with the process largely deadlocked since the collapse of a summit in Hanoi in February. Pyongyang has issued a series of increasingly strident declarations in recent weeks, and US special representative Stephen Biegun told reporters in Seoul: "We have heard them all." In Pictures: China provides top security to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un "Regrettably, the tone of these statements towards the United States, the Republic of Korea, Japan and our friends in Europe have been so hostile and negative and so unnecessary," he said. "The US does not have a deadline, we have a goal." Tensions between the US and the nuclear-armed North — whose forces and their allies fought each other to a standstill in the 1950-53 Korean War — reached a peak in 2017, with their leaders Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un trading mutual insults and threats of renewed conflict. A rapid diplomatic detente followed, climaxing with the Singapore summit when the two men signed a vague statement on denuclearisation, but Washington still stations 28,500 troops in South Korea to protect its ally from a new invasion by its neighbour. Pyongyang has said that if Washington fails to make it an acceptable offer, it will adopt a so far unspecified "new way". It has carried out a series of static tests at its Sohae rocket facility this month, after several weapons launches in recent weeks, some of them described as ballistic missiles by Japan and others -- which Pyongyang is banned from testing under UN sanctions. Biegun, who also met Monday with South Korean President Moon Jae-in, said the US was "fully aware of the strong potential for North Korea to conduct a major provocation in the days ahead". "To say the least, such an action will be most unhelpful in achieving lasting peace on the Korean peninsula," he added. Directly addressing "our counterparts in North Korea", he went on: "It is time for us to do our jobs. Let's get this done. We are here and you know how to reach us." 'Christmas gift' The US envoy's tone was "unusually strong", said Shin Beom-chul, an analyst at the Asan Institute of Policy Studies in Seoul, adding that his ruling out Kim's year-end deadline will infuriate Pyongyang. "The key message was that there will be no more concessions from the US and that it won't be dragged around," Shin told AFP. Frustrated by the lack of sanctions relief after it declared a moratorium on nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) tests, North Korea has vowed an ominous "Christmas gift" if Washington does not come up with concessions. Some analysts have pointed to an ICBM launch, while others suggest a possible space launch — which critics would be likely to interpret as a disguised ICBM test. In 2017, the North tested missiles that brought the whole of the US mainland into range, and experts say that it has continued its research programmes ever since. Without mentioning the North's possible Christmas present, Biegun wished "all of the Korean people" happy holidays. "As always, it is our fervent prayer and hopes that this day will usher in a season of peace. I hope all would agree with that sentiment," he said. Pyongyang has also threatened to resume referring to Trump as a "dotard" — the derisive insult Kim lobbed at the US leader in 2017 — and warned that if the US uses military force against it, it would take "prompt corresponding actions at any level". At the recent NATO summit, Trump boasted about Washington's "most powerful military", adding: "Hopefully, we don't have to use it, but if we do, we'll use it. If we have to, we'll do it."

North Korea comments 'hostile and unnecessary': US envoy Stephen Biegun

U.S. representative slams Pyongyang's comments as hostile and unnecessary. U.S. special envoy meets Korean president in Seoul. Watch this video to know more.

U.S. representative slams Pyongyang's comments as hostile and unnecessary

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