Tokyo and nearby Seoul both have expressed concern over North Korea’s development of long-range, nuclear-capable ballistic missiles in defiance of multiple U.N. prohibitions. North Korea conducts frequent missile tests that send projectiles over Japan or into nearby waters.

North Korea said it successfully tested "a new cutting-edge weapons system" involving hypersonic projectiles on Wednesday as part of a defence program to enhance strategic deterrence against enemies.

Now, as Trump is set to make his first trip to Asia since his return to office, speculation is rife that he may seek to meet Kim again during his stop in South Korea.