North Korea on Friday asked for South Korea's aid in fighting bird flu.

The Unification Ministry said Pyongyang sent a phone message to the National Veterinary Research and Quarantine Service in Seoul, asking for equipment and medical supplies.

The North has also confirmed through gene analyses that the bird flu virus is an H7-subtype posing no danger to humans.

It added that authorities have culled and buried some 210 thousand affected chickens since the flu broke out on February 25th.

Migratory birds are also suspected of spreading the disease from neigboring countries.

The request for help comes ten days after Seoul asked Pyongyang to provide details on the outbreak before sending aid.

The ministry said it will make follow-up measures after consulting with related agencies, as the North has provided information and made an official request for help.

Last month, the North announced the outbreak of bird flu and has cooperated with international agencies to contain the disease.