A Seoul-based think tank says North Korea is likely to seek direct talks with the U.S. next year if it succeeds in launching its Hwasong-15 missile at a normal trajectory and proves the projectile is capable of reentering the atmosphere.

Previous North Korean tests have launched missiles at a sharp vertical trajectory, which offers a proof of range but not necessarily re-entry capability.

The Foreign Ministry's Institute of Foreign Affairs and National Security predicts Pyongyang will seek direct dialogue with the U.S. as an established nuclear power aimed at nuclear disarmament negotiations reminiscent of the Soviet era.

Washington has repeatedly insisted it will never recognize North Korea as a nuclear state.

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