NEW YORK - THE White House on Wednesday called North Korea's move to expel UN monitors from its nuclear plant and plans to restart it 'very disappointing' and urged Pyongyang to reconsider its actions.

'The North Korean actions are very disappointing and run counter to the expectations of the members of the six-party talks and the international community,' White House spokesman Gordon Johndroe said.

'We strongly urge the North to reconsider these steps and come back immediately into compliance with its obligations as outlined in the six party agreements,' he said.

'As we have stated on many occasions, we are open to further discussions with the North on their obligations under a verification protocol.'

North Korea said it plans to reactivate the Yongbyon atomic complex next week after moving to dismantle it since last November under a disarmament-for-aid agreement with five powers. -- REUTERS