Tunnel Collapse May Have Killed 200 After North Korea Nuclear Test

Tremors and landslides near the nuclear test base probably mean the country’s sixth and largest blast on 3 September has destabilised the region.

(Photo: The Quint/Rhythum Seth)

A tunnel at North Korea's nuclear test site collapsed after Pyongyang's sixth atomic test in September, possibly killing more than 200 people, Japanese broadcaster TV Asahi said on Tuesday, citing unnamed sources familiar with the situation.

The report has not been verified yet.

About 100 workers at the Punggye-ri nuclear site were affected by the initial collapse, which took place around 10 September, the broadcaster said.

A second collapse during a rescue operation meant it was possible the death toll could have exceeded 200, it added.

Experts have said a series of tremors and landslides near the nuclear test base probably mean the country's sixth and largest blast on 3 September has destabilised the region, and the Punggye-ri nuclear site may not be used for much longer to test nuclear weapons.

(This piece has been published in an arrangement with Reuters)