Answer: We are aware of Japanese media reports claiming that the Department of State gave no prior notification to the Government of Japan of North Korea’s nuclear test. The Department of State has received no complaints from the Government of Japan on this matter.
On May 24 (Washington time) North Korea notified the State Department of its intention to conduct a nuclear test, without citing specific timing, approximately one hour prior to the event. The United States immediately notified the governments of Japan, South Korea, China, and Russia. Secretary Clinton spoke to Japanese Foreign Minister Nakasone about the reported nuclear test and our response early on the morning of May 25.
PRN: 2009/519
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