Korea river crossing: US and South Korea's military drills alarming the North

A joint exercise between the United States and South Korea's militaries has been celebrated as a success, despite attracting North Korea's criticism.

Around 300 troops from the two sides' armies took part in the exercise in Yeoju, South Korea, during Ulchi Freedom Shield.

Personnel installed a 280m floating bridge during the three days, connecting the allies on either end before crossing with armoured vehicles.

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As part of the 11-day drills, which are held annually, the training is designed to improve the wet gap crossing capability of both sides.

Lieutenant Colonel Shawn M Cook, Commander of 11th Engineer Battalion, said: "Today's training highlights the US and Republic of Korea's relationship and the strengthening of this alliance.

"This wet gap crossing is one of the most complex engineering missions in the world."

11 Engineer Battalion is currently stationed in South Korea and is described as the "largest, most lethal engineer battalion in the US Army".

Lieutenant Colonel Park Sang-Urn, from the South Korean Army, said the exercise was "valuable" in enhancing the "capabilities of joint command and control between South Korea and the United States".

"We are now confident that we will be able to succeed in the complete river-crossing operation, which links the South Korean and US forces at both ends of the river," Lt Col Sang-Urn added.

However, North Korea said the drills prove Washington intends to "occupy" the Korean peninsula, according to state media.

President Donald Trump told reporters that he wanted to meet Kim Jon Un during a visit to the White House by his South Korean counterpart, President Lee Jae Myung.

The North Korean leader has yet to respond to the American president, despite Mr Trump saying the pair share a "very good relationship".

Pyongyang and Seoul fought an intense war between 1950 and 1953, which ended in an armistice but no formal peace treaty.

Approximately 28,500 American troops are based in South Korea.