The United States has vowed to provide assistance for the stability of the Korean Peninsula following the news of North Korean leader Kim Jong-il's death.

White House Press Secretary Jay Carney said in an e-mailed statement released around 11:20 p.m. Sunday, local time, that Washington is closely monitoring reports of Kim’s death.

Carney said U.S. President Barack Obama has been notified, and the U.S. is in close touch with its allies in South Korea and Japan.

The press secretary also said the U.S. remains committed to stability on the Korean Peninsula and to the freedom and security of its allies.

U.S. media report that the White House is closely watching trends concerning the communist state and consulting possible ways to address the emergency situation.