The United States' special envoy for North Korea has said America is not close to taking military action against the North.
Joseph Yun said US policy is to apply pressure and leave the door open for dialogue, while keeping all options open.
Mr Yun said a military option is included, but added: "I don't believe we are close to it."
He made the comments at a news conference in Tokyo after attending a meeting on North Korea held by a private think tank.
The two Koreas have resumed talks over the North's participation in this month's Winter Olympics in South Korea, prompting the US and South Korea to postpone regular joint military exercises.