North Korea has harshly criticized Japan's updating of key defense documents that would give Japan the ability to launch counterstrikes.

The Japanese government approved the National Security Strategy and two other documents at a Cabinet meeting last Friday.

In a statement issued by its foreign ministry on Tuesday, North Korea said Tokyo is bringing a serious security crisis to the Korean Peninsula and East Asia. It said adopting a new policy means that Japan will acquire the ability to carry out pre-emptive strikes against other countries.

It also said that North Korea makes it clear once again that it has the right to take bold and decisive military measures in response to the complicated regional security environment brought about by Japan's moves.

It added that in response to Japan's move to realize unjust and excessive ambition, North Korea will continue to show with actions how much it is concerned and displeased.

Observers say the statement is likely aimed at justifying Pyongyang's military buildup by quoting Japan's security policy.