China has somewhat of a diplomatic relationship with North Korea , though the relationship between the two countries is limited because of Pyongyang 's routine provocations . NEW : South Korea says it will retaliate if provoked . A U.S. official says there are signs the North Koreans are planning a launch . China and the United States say a rocket launch would be destabilizing . North Korea moves a long - range rocket to a launch site in Dong - ri , an official says .
NEW : South Korea says it will retaliate if provoked . A U.S. official says there are signs the North Koreans are planning a launch . China and the United States say a rocket launch would be destabilizing . North Korea moves a long - range rocket to a launch site in Dong - ri , an official says .