According to a statement issued by Ban's spokesperson, this “will further aggravate the profound concerns that the international community already has in the wake of the recent nuclear test.”

The statement is referring to an underground nuclear test announced by the DPRK on 6 January, which the United Nations at the time deplored, calling it “a grave contravention of the international norm against nuclear testing.”

Today, the Secretary-General also called upon the DPRK to refrain from using ballistic missile technology and work for peace and stability on the Korean peninsula.

“He stands ready to help to reduce tensions and facilitate reconciliation and dialogue,” the statement added.