North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has said in a New Year's message that he wants to "remove confrontation between the North and South."
But the message also spoke of developing more advanced weapons.
North Korea's latest rocket launch, in December, that Pyongyang says was for eventually putting satellites into space, was seen by Seoul, Washington, and others as a test for a ballistic missile.
The launch increased tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
Kim said improving living standards for the people was this year's most important task.
The North Korean leader also called for a "revolution" in science and technology and for more amusement parks to be built.
It was the first time in 19 years a North Korean leader has given a New Year's address to the people.
But the message also spoke of developing more advanced weapons.
North Korea's latest rocket launch, in December, that Pyongyang says was for eventually putting satellites into space, was seen by Seoul, Washington, and others as a test for a ballistic missile.
The launch increased tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
Kim said improving living standards for the people was this year's most important task.
The North Korean leader also called for a "revolution" in science and technology and for more amusement parks to be built.
It was the first time in 19 years a North Korean leader has given a New Year's address to the people.