The Chinese government has expressed concern over the growing tension between North and South Korea, requesting both countries upkeep composure to keep peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said in a statement on October 20th that China hopes the two Koreas do not engage in provocative and sudden action.

The statement also said Beijing is keeping a close eye on matters on the Korean Peninsula and that tensions should be resolved through dialogue and consultation. It also emphasized its opposition against action that would lead to a military conflict.

The statement came after North Korea threatened to fire at South Korea if anti-North Korea leaflets are flown across the border on Friday. The South Korean Defense Minister Kim Kwan-jin had responded that the South Korean military would strike back if North Korea did engage in such behavior.