The ministry warned Sunday -- when Pyongyang conducted a sixth nuclear test -- against all but essential travel to the North, saying there remains a threat of further missile or nuclear tests, which could lead to further instability in the country.

The council has operated the ELT program in the North for nearly 17 years since Britain's foreign ministry reached an agreement with the North in May 2000.

Under the accord, four British teachers have so far trained English teachers at seven universities and three middle schools in the North, according to the broadcaster.

In 2014, the two sides agreed on a three-year extension of the accord, but this year's discussions on its further renewal have been suspended, it added. (Yonhap)