A White House spokesperson says US President Joe Biden will discuss North Korea's nuclear and missile programs and the situation in Ukraine with his Japanese and South Korean counterparts when he visits the two countries later this month.

Biden is due to travel to Japan and South Korea from May 20 to 24.

He is scheduled to meet with Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio and South Korean President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol, who will be inaugurated on May 10. Biden will also attend a summit of the Quad grouping of Japan, the US, Australia and India.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters on Thursday that Biden will make clear that the US commitment to the security of Japan and South Korea is ironclad, including extended deterrence commitments.

She noted North Korea's continued destabilizing actions in the region, including the test launch of multiple intercontinental ballistic missiles.

She said Japan and South Korea play an important role for security in the region.

Psaki said the leaders will also discuss opportunities to deepen security relationships and enhance economic ties. She said the Ukrainian situation, climate change and COVID-19 responses will also be on the agenda.