North Korea has responded to requests for information about the whereabouts of US soldier Travis King for the first time since he crossed into the country, the UN Command has confirmed.

The 23-year-old private dashed across the border from South Korea on 18 July while on a guided tour.

The UN Command refused to give further details “in order not to interfere with our efforts to get him home”.

However, the reply indicates Pyongyang could be ready to start negotiating.

The UN Command, which polices the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), had sought information on Pvt King using its direct phone line to the North Korean Army in the Joint Security Area.

The North Koreans had acknowledged the request, but this is the first time they have responded, confirming the US solider is in their custody.

North Korea has not publicly acknowledged custody of Pvt King.

Before he crossed the border, Pvt King served two months in prison in South Korea for assault charges. He was released on 10 July.

He was supposed to fly back to the US, but managed to give leave the airport and join the DMZ tour.

He is a reconnaissance specialist who had been in the army since January 2021 and was in South Korea as part of his rotation.