US Administration Expresses Concern Over Possible Resumption of North Korea's Nuclear and ICBM Tests

[Asia Economy Reporter Park So-yeon] A senior official of the U.S. administration on the 30th (local time) expressed concern over North Korea's potential resumption of nuclear tests and intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test launches in connection with North Korea's intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) test launch, urging North Korea to engage in dialogue.

According to reports from major foreign media, the senior official referred to North Korea's IRBM test launch the previous day and mentioned concerns that North Korea might not only resume ICBM test launches but also end the nuclear test moratorium.

Earlier, following North Korea's IRBM test launch on the 30th Korean time, North Korea's Korean Central News Agency announced that it had successfully conducted a test launch of the Hwasong-12 type verification firing.

The missile launched this time has the longest range among missiles North Korea has launched since 2017.

Having carried out as many as seven missile shows of force this month, North Korea hinted on the 20th that it might lift the moratorium on nuclear tests and ICBMs, heightening tensions.

A senior U.S. official pointed out that North Korea's IRBM shows of force violate United Nations Security Council resolutions and international law, saying that it is increasingly destabilizing the situation.

He also said, "A response is necessary," adding, "You will see us take some measures designed to demonstrate our commitment to our allies."

Furthermore, he stated, "At the same time, we reiterate the call for diplomacy," and "We are very seriously prepared to attempt discussions that address the concerns of both sides." He added, "We believe that the start of serious discussions is entirely appropriate and right."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.