WASHINGTON — The White House says North Korea's actions are "dangerous and provocative" and will further aggravate tensions in the region.

The comments come after Pyongyang's sudden announcement that it would conduct live-fire drills in seven areas north of the Koreas' disputed maritime boundary. Following that announcement, North and South Korea fired hundreds of artillery shells into each other's waters.

White House spokesman Jonathan Lalley says North Korea's continuous threats and provocations will only deepen its isolation. He says the U.S. remains steadfast in its commitment to the defense of its allies and is working in close coordination with South Korea and Japan.