The resulting sanctions from repeated nuclear tests may threaten the survival of the North Korean regime, South Korea’s foreign minister said Tuesday.

Speaking to the International Peace Institute in New York, Foreign Minister Yun Byung-se said that Seoul has been working with its allies to deter the North from carrying out the fourth nuclear test international observers have been anticipating.

“Our assessment is that North Korea is ready to undertake a test whenever they make the necessary political decision,” he said.

If it takes place, Yun said that the consequences for the regime could be severe.

“…we, South Korea,