The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un on Wednesday criticised South Korea’s President and threatened a “complete destruction” of bilateral relations after both of the countries tested ballistic missiles hours apart.

The launches of missiles underscored a return of tensions between the rivals at a time when talks aimed at stripping North Korea of its nuclear programme are stalled.

Kim’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, criticised South Korean President Moon Jae-in for comments he made while observing his country’s missile tests, including its first of a submarine-launched ballistic missile. Moon said South Korea’s growing missile capabilities will serve as a “sure deterrence” against North Korean provocations.

The tests came hours after the South Korean and Japanese militaries said North Korea had fired two ballistic missiles into the sea.

In a statement carried by state media, Kim berated Moon for describing North

Korean weapons demonstrations as a provocation, and warned of a “complete destruction” of bilateral relations if he continues with what she described as slander of North Korea.

She said North Korea is developing its military capabilities for self-defence, and that South Korea is also increasing its military capabilities.