North Korea's actions are 'dangerous,' will deepen its isolation: U.S.

In this photo provided by the Ongjin County, South Korean soldiers and islands' residents reembark a vessel bound for Baengnyeong island, as they evacuate from Daecheong island near the West Sea border with North Korea, Monday, March 31, 2014. (AP Photo)

WASHINGTON - The White House says North Korea's actions are "dangerous and provocative" and will further aggravate tensions in the region.

The comments come after Pyongyang's sudden announcement that it would conduct live-fire drills in seven areas north of the Koreas' disputed maritime boundary. Following that announcement, North and South Korea fired hundreds of artillery shells into each other's waters.

White House spokesman Jonathan Lalley says North Korea's continuous threats and provocations will only deepen its isolation. He says the U.S. remains steadfast in its commitment to the defence of its allies and is working in close co-ordination with South Korea and Japan.