South Korea's intelligence agency suspects North Korea may launch a new ballistic missile by the end of the year.

The National Intelligence Service(NIS) reported its observation to senior members of the National Assembly’s Intelligence Committee on Monday based on an increase in vehicle activity in and around the North’s missile research facilities.

According to Representative Yi Wan-young of the major opposition Liberty Korea Party, the NIS also said the North appears to have recently conducted a missile engine test.

The spy agency said it's paying attention to the possibility of the North test-firing a ballistic missile within the year to enhance its threat against the U.S. under the pretext of peaceful space development.

The NIS said there's no indication of an imminent nuclear test at the regime’s Punggye-ri nuclear test site, but added Pyongyang is likely able to conduct a seventh nuclear test on short notice if North Korean leader Kim Jong-un gives the order.