U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has criticized North Korea’s attempts to isolate South Korea from talks with Washington, saying the bilateral alliance with Seoul is stronger than ever.

Clinton told an interview with CNN Saturday that North Korea is "badly miscalculating" if it thinks its diplomatic bluster and maneuvering can "drive a wedge" between Seoul and Washington.

She also urged Pyongyang to actively participate in the six-party nuclear talks, saying a tremendous advantage awaits if the North implements verifiable and complete denuclearization.