North Korea warned on nuclear test

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TOKYO, Feb. 1 (UPI) -- North Korea will be responsible for the consequences of conducting a third nuclear test, a statement from Japan, South Korea and the United States read.

South Korean, Japanese and U.S. officials met in Tokyo this week with talks focused on regional security concerns regarding North Korea.

The statement following the meeting noted that North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programs presented a "serious threat" to the region and the international community.

"If North Korea carries out any further provocations, including a nuclear test, North Korea will bear responsibility for the consequences it will face for disregarding the overwhelming views of the international community," the statement read.

This week, South Korean officials said they've seen additional workers and vehicles at a nuclear test facility in northeastern North Korea.

Satellite imagery of the Punggye-ri nuclear test facility in North Korea reveals signs that indicate Pyongyang may be preparing to test a nuclear device.

North Korea in December launched a long-range rocket in an attempt to orbit a satellite. Similar launches in 2006 and 2009 coincided with nuclear tests. A launch attempt last April failed.