'North Korea preparing for another missile launch'

The missile, which can theoretically reach the west coast of the United States, is now in the final assembly stages.

North Korea is making preparations to launch another long-range Taepodong-2 missile, a media report said in New York.

HT Image

The missile, which can theoretically reach the west coast of the United States, is now in the final assembly stages, NBC television network reported quoting US intelligence sources.

It also warned of "stronger physical actions" if the international community tried to put pressure on Pyongyang.

"Our armed forces will continue with missile launching exercises as part of efforts to build up our self-defence deterrence, as was the recent case," the North Korea's Foreign Ministry said in a statement monitored by Yonhap news agency.

"If anyone takes this up with us or applies pressure on us, we would have to retaliate with stronger physical actions," it warned.

A Taepodong-2 missile launched by North Korea on Wednesday blew up seconds after lift-off. UNSC member nations held emergency talks to consider their response to North Korea test-firing at least seven missiles.

Meanwhile, South Korean media reported that North Korea has three or four more missiles ready for firing on launch pads.

These are either short or medium-range missiles, the 'Chosun Ilbo' reported.