Pyongyang 'has right to launch missiles'

The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) said yesterday it had the right to launch its longest-range missile, raising tensions just hours before US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton arrives in the region for talks likely to focus on the state.

The announcement came as the DPRK marked the 67th birthday of its top leader Kim Jong-il.

Media reports in the Republic of Korea's (ROK) say Pyongyang has been preparing its longest-range Taepodong-2 missile for a test while officials in Seoul have been anticipating a short-range missile test near a disputed sea border where navies from the two side have clashed in the past.