In the summit with US President Donald Trump in Singapore, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un promised complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula in return for security guarantees and new relations between the two countries.

Subsequent talks, however, have been all but stalled as North Korea calls for corresponding measures for what it claims to be substantive denuclearization steps, such as dismantling a nuclear and missile test site, while the US demands more concrete measures.

Meari warned of "consequences" if Washington sticks to sanctions and pressure and tests Pyongyang's patience.

In his New Year's Day speech, leader Kim also warned that he could seek to go a new way if Washington misjudges its patience and clings to sanctions. He still expressed a willingness to meet Trump at anytime.

Over the weekend, Trump said that the US and North Korea are in talks on where to hold their second summit, adding that details will be made public sooner or later. He earlier expected his meeting with Kim could be held either in January or February. (Yonhap)