North Korea has warned of “the toughest retaliation” if the "Cheonan" naval disaster is discussed at the United Nations Security Council.

A spokesman for the North's Foreign Ministry on Friday said that if the case is discussed at the council, North Korea will take actions similar to those seen in the past.

The spokesman did not elaborate on the actions, but his statement is interpreted as a threat that the North may conduct a third nuclear test or perhaps a long-range missile launch.

The spokesman also said that if the case is sent to the UNSC, it is important to conduct an objective probe and to make a right decision.

He also reiterated the North's demand that Seoul accept its inspection group to verify the result of the probe that concluded the North is responsible for the sinking of the warship Cheonan.