The Democratic People's Republic of Korea state media outlet KCNA says the country sent a notice to South Korea on holding talks between the military authorities of the two sides.

The message from Pyongyang's National Defense Commission offered talks at a place both sides deem convenient in late May or early June. KCNA said the move aimed to defuse military tensions, create a confidence-building atmosphere and prevent war. However, South Korea has turned down the offer, saying the proposal lacked sincerity.

Seoul said that the DPRK should take denuclearization steps, before the resumption of any dialogue.