South Korea experienced a 5.1 magnitude "artificial" earthquake around 9PM ET on Tuesday. Other countries’ earthquake agencies also noted seismic signatures that point to a nuclear test. North Korea’s official news agency issued a statement shortly afterward saying its H-bomb test caused the seismic rumbles.

This most recent incident doesn’t sit well with the international community, Earnest said. The US, along with China, Japan, and South Korea, is working to determine an appropriate response to the recent action, although he didn’t elaborate on possible options. Ultimately, Earnest said, North Korea needs to stop its "provocative" acts or face international repercussions.