North Korea has issued a statement this morning - urging all foreigners in South Korea to evacuate in case of war.

In the statement, authorities in North Korea say "we do not wish harm on foreigners, should there be war."

Tensions between the two countries have intensified in recent weeks and it's speculated North Korea is preparing to stage a fourth nuclear test.

Around 1,000 Irish citizens live in South Korea.

North Korea has already said it is pulling all of its workers out of the industrial complex it jointly operates with its neighbours.

Concern stays

Despite the looming threat of nuclear war, the Irish NGO Concern has decided NOT to pull their 14 employees out of North Korea.

Regional Director with Concern Brid Kennedy says it's difficult to know how much love the North Korean people really have for the country's new leader, Kim Jong-un.

Japanese moves

Japan has meanwhile deployed missile-defence systems around Tokyo ahead of any possible missile test by North Korea.

'The Patriot' missile batteries were set up as US and South Korean officials prepare for any moves the north might make.