North Korean nuclear attack would end Kim's regime, US warns

The United States has warned North Korea that any nuclear attack against the nation or its allies "is unacceptable and will result in the end of the (Kim Jong) Un regime," a joint US-South Korean statement said on Saturday.

"The US side reiterated that any nuclear attack by the DPRK against the ROK will be met with a swift, overwhelming, and decisive response," the statement said.

Nuclear deterrence talks

The second US-Republic of Korea Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) convened in Washington on Friday for talks on nuclear deterrence as part of a commitment by the two countries to share more insight into planning in the event of conflict with North Korea. Pyongyang has developed and tested a range of ballistic missiles that can reach targets in South Korea, Japan and the US mainland.

Kim Tae-hyo, South Korea's deputy national security adviser said on Friday that North Korea may test-launch an intercontinental ballistic missile this month, which was considered a nuclear threat regardless of its range because it can carry a nuclear warhead.

The third NCG will be convened in Korea next summer.