The White House said on Thursday that the reported rocket launch by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) threatens regional security and violates international law.

Photo taken on April 8, 2012 shows the rocket for launching Kwangmyongsong-3 satellite installed on the launch pad in Tongchang-ri base, Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). [Xinhua]

"Despite the failure of its attempted missile launch, North Korea (the DPRK)'s provocative action threatens regional security, violates international law and contravenes its own recent commitments," the White House said in a statement.

The statement came after Japan, South Korea and the United States reported that the DPRK launched a rocket on Friday morning local time, whose launch appeared to have failed.

So far, the DPRK has neither confirmed nor denied the launch.

"The United States remains vigilant in the face of North Korean provocations, and is fully committed to the security our allies in the region," said the statement.

The statement also noted that U.S. President Barack Obama has made it clear that he is prepared to "engage constructively with North Korea."

"However, he has also insisted that North Korea live up to its own commitments, adhere to its international obligations and deal peacefully with its neighbors," the statement added.

The statement said that DPRK's "provocative acts" only further isolates itself, and its long-standing development of missiles and pursuit of nuclear weapons can not bring it security.

The DPRK will only show strength and find security by abiding by international law, living up to its obligations, and to win the trust of its neighbors, the statement added. 

Related

• DPRK's rocket launch fails: S. Korean Defense Ministry
• US media says DPRK rocket launch 'failed'
• Japan says DPRK rocket falls after launching
• China urges calm for DPRK satellite launch
• Foreign media allowed to visit DPRK satellite control center

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