Foreign chiefs from Japan, the United States and South Korea have shared concerns over North Korea's repeated ballistic missile launches, saying they pose a threat to the peace and stability of the international community.

Japanese Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and South Korean Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong met in Hawaii on Saturday, and agreed to step up security cooperation among the three countries to increase deterrence.

They confirmed the importance of strictly implementing the UN Security Council resolutions against North Korea, and agreed that their countries will closely coordinate on the Security Council's future responses, and deepen discussions about diplomatic efforts.

Blinken and Chung reportedly expressed support when Hayashi asked for continued cooperation on the issue of the Japanese nationals abducted by North Korean agents decades ago.

The ministers also discussed the situation surrounding Ukraine, and shared unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. They also agreed to continue to work closely together on the matter.

The top diplomats shared concerns over activities that undermine the rule-based international order, with China's assertive actions in mind.

They agreed to show strong opposition to unilateral actions, including attempts to change the status quo.

The ministers also agreed to cooperate in addressing issues of international concern, including responses to the coronavirus pandemic and climate change.

Hayashi told a joint news conference after the trilateral talks that the significance of cooperation among the three countries goes beyond responses to North Korea and is essential for the stability and peace of the region.

He said the three-way cooperation should also be strengthened among their leaders.