Unification Minister Jeong Se-hyun says last week's train explosion in North Korea is not likely to affect inter-Korean ties or ongoing efforts to resume six-way nuclear talks.

Appearing on a radio program Monday, Jeong said China had conveyed to Seoul that efforts to open working-level nuclear talks next month are expected to progress smoothly.

He added that the groundbreaking ceremony for the Gaesong Industrial Complex will also take place at the end of the month as scheduled.

Jeong said some 30 private groups including the Red Cross will form a consultative body to seek ways to further assist the communist North in the wake of the deadly train blast in Ryongchon.