THE international community has called for stability and restraint on the Korean Peninsula after the North Korea yesterday announced the death of its top leader Kim Jong Il.

    The White House said the United States is in close contact with South Korea and Japan after Kim’s death and remains committed to stability on the Korean Peninsula.

    “We are closely monitoring reports that Kim Jong Il is dead,” White House spokesman Jay Carney said in a statement.

    “We remain committed to stability on the Korean Peninsula, and to the freedom and security of our allies,” he added.

    U.S. President Barack Obama held a phone conversation with South Korean President Lee Myung-bak following Kim’s death, the White House said.

    Obama reaffirmed the United States’ strong commitment to the stability of the Korean Peninsula and the security of South Korea.

    Meanwhile, South Korea is on high alert following the death of Kim.

    Immediately after the KCNA reported Kim’s death, President Lee convened the National Security Council to discuss follow-up measures with officials including the foreign minister and the defense chief.

    Lee also ordered all government employees to be on emergency alert, a measure that would restrict their unauthorized leave.

    Japan has already discussed Kim’s death with the United States and South Korea. Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda urged officials to keep in touch with the United States, China and South Korea over the issue, Kyodo cited a senior government official as saying.

    Noda also urged officials to make full preparations for contingencies while Foreign Minister Koichiro Gemba asked the foreign ministry to prepare for any events after Kim’s death.

    Chief Cabinet Secretary Osamu Fujimura told reporters that Japan hopes Kim’s death has no negative impact on Korean Peninsula security.

    Meanwhile, Australian Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd said countries and leaders should maintain calm and restraint over Kim’s death.

    Rudd said he spoke with the South Korean ambassador not long before and the Australian Government will keep close contacts with allies in the region.

    New Zealand Prime Minister John Key said he hopes for a smooth transition in North Korea. (Xinhua)