North Korea H-bomb test undermines peace, security in Asia – DND

Residents watch a big video screen on Mirae Scientists Street in Pyongyang showing newsreader Ri Chun-Hee as she announces the news that the country has successfully tested a hydrogen bomb on September 3, 2017. North Korea declared itself a thermonuclear power on September 3, after carrying out a sixth nuclear test more powerful than any it has previously detonated, presenting President Donald Trump with a potent challenge. AFP PHOTO

The Department of National Defense expressed its concern on North Korea’s hydrogen bomb test, reportedly the most powerful nuclear test to date.

“The DND is greatly concerned with the latest hydrogen bomb test conducted by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. The proliferation of this weapon increases the tension not only in the Korean peninsula but also adversely affects the peace and security of the whole Asia as well,” it said in a statement on Monday.

The USGS reported the tremor from the nuclear test was at magnitude 6.3. The bomb was aimed to be mounted on its new intercontinental ballistic missile, and was felt in South Korea and China.

The Philippine government earlier also expressed grave concern with the test and urged North Korea to return to the negotiating table.

Other nations also condemned the hydrogen bomb test.

While the test may not directly affect the country, the DND said it will continue to monitor the situation.

“The Office of Civil Defense is on alert following our standard operating procedures,” it said.