A North Korean expert in the U.S. says North Korea-U.S. relations could see rapid progress after Pyeongyang launches its rocket.

After meeting with North Korean officials in Pyeongyang last month, Professor Park Han-sik of the University of Georgia said the North is not firing the rocket to test the new Obama administration or show off its military prowess against Seoul's hard-line policy. Park said North Korean officials explained the project was more focused on displaying the nation's advancements in science and technology.

He also predicted a possible visit to Pyongyang U.S. special envoy on North Korea Stephen Bosworth after the rocket launch, citing the general attitude toward the North which he said is not hostile.

Park also forecast that the North will first go through a trial for the two detained American journalists, and will release them in the form of deporation as a gesture of goodwill to improve relations with Washington.