DPRK says uranium program near completion

SEOUL: The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) announced yesterday that its process of enriching uranium is nearly complete, giving it a new way to make nuclear bombs as the US and regional powers discuss how to bring the country back to disarmament talks.

The move raises concerns that the DPRK may soon produce uranium-based bombs in addition to those made from plutonium.

Verifying North Korea's claim on uranium enrichment won't be easy, Republic of Korea (ROK) Defense Ministry spokesman Won Tae-jae said, adding that it could be a negotiating tactic.