Heightened tension in the peninsula has caused concerns from neighboring countries as well as the rest of international community.

China on Friday asked relevant parties to exercise restraint and prevent escalation of tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

"We urge relevant sides to maintain calm and restraint, properly deal with the current situation through contact and dialogue, and stop any action that could heighten tensions," Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said.

Bordering on the Korean Peninsula, China pays close attention to the peninsular situation and is deeply concerned about recent incidents, Hua said.

She said China resolutely safeguards regional peace and stability and opposes any action that could raise tensions.

"China is willing to work with all parties concerned for peace and stability of the peninsula," she said.8 In addition, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon was deeply concerned by rising tensions on the Korean Peninsula, a spokesperson for the Secretary-General said.

Ban has closely followed the reports of rising tensions on the Korean Peninsula. He urged the parties to refrain from taking any further measures that might increase tensions, said Eri Kaneko, associate spokesperson for the UN chief.

"He also calls the parties to engage in dialogue to reduce tensions and to promote peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula," Kaneko said.