Unification Minister Lee Jong-seok has admitted to differences between South Korea and the U.S. on some North Korea-related issues.

Lee told a local TV program Sunday that Seoul and Washington, tied in a strategic alliance, share a broad understanding on most issues but have differences on North Korean issues.

On remarks by U.S. Forces Korea Commander General Burwell Bell who cast doubt on South Korea's preparedness against the North's nuclear threat, the minister flatly denied the notion, citing the government's increased defense budget over recent years to modernize the nation's defense capabilities.

On discussions with Pyongyang, Lee said aid to North Korea was never unconditional and has been part of cross-border tension easing efforts.

On the North's missile ambitions, he said South Korea, China and other countries had failed to persuade Pyongyang but that Washington's policy on North Korea had failed the most.