North Korea says conducted underground nuclear test

SEOUL, Oct 9 (Reuters) North Korea said it had carried out an underground nuclear test today.

Following is the full text of the announcement carried by North Korea's Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) in English: ''The field of scientific research in the DPRK (North Korea) successfully conducted an underground nuclear test under secure conditions on October 9, Juche 95 (2006) at a stirring time when all the people of the country are making a great leap forward in the building of a great prosperous powerful socialist nation.

''It has been confirmed that there was no such danger as radioactive emission in the course of the nuclear test as it was carried out under a scientific consideration and careful calculation.

''The nuclear test was conducted with indigenous wisdom and technology 100 per cent. It marks a historic event as it greatly encouraged and pleased the KPA (Korean People's Army) and people that have wished to have powerful self-reliant defence capability.

''It will contribute to defending the peace and stability on the Korean peninsula and in the area around it.'' REUTERS DKA BD0940