A UN human rights investigator is welcoming the easing of tensions on the Korean peninsula, but is raising concerns Pyongyang is arbitrarily applying the law and limiting personal freedoms.

Tomas Ojea Quintana, the Special Rapporteur on North Korea presented his report in a video message at the UN Human Rights Council on Monday.

He said "We must remind ourselves of the importance of continuing to build trust and take steps towards the ultimate goal of establishing a permanent peace regime on the Korean peninsula."

Quintana also touched on North Korea's humanitarian situation.

He says nearly half the country suffers from food shortages, and is urging Pyongyang to grant entry to international monitors and allow them to meet with officials.

Meanwhile, Japan emphasized the urgency of resolving the issue of abductions of Japanese nationals.
The government says at least 17 citizens were abducted during the 1970s and '80s.

NHK