Pakistan, July 17 -- North Korea has labelled South Korea a "puppet" following its participation in the US-led Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) naval exercise. Pyongyang warned that Seoul and Washington would bear responsibility for any unpredictable regional escalation. The remarks highlight growing tensions on the Korean Peninsula amid expanding military cooperation.

According to North Korea's state media KCNA, South Korea played a leading role in the multinational maritime exercise held in Hawaii. The South Korean navy led participating maritime forces for the first time during this year's drills. RIMPAC, held every two years, involved around 30 countries, including Japan, Canada, and Australia.

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