U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has urged North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to replicate Vietnam's "miracle" of economic growth by improving ties with the United States.

Pompeo made the remark on Sunday during a meeting with members of the U.S. and Vietnamese business community in Hanoi.

The secretary said that Vietnam’s experience since the normalization of relations with the U.S. in 1995 should be proof for North Korea that prosperity and partnership with the U.S. is possible after decades of conflict and mistrust.

Pompeo said that U.S. President Donald Trump believes North Korea can replicate the path of Vietnam, adding that the North could enjoy a similar miracle if Kim seizes the moment. 

He stated that the choice now lies with North Korea and its people, adding if Kim makes the right choice, he will be remembered as a hero of the Korean people. 

The comments came after his two-day trip to Pyongyang for talks on the North's denuclearization.

[Photo : YONHAP News]