U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed hope Thursday operations at the Kaesong Industrial Complex in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) could return to normal "as soon as possible through dialogue."

"The Secretary-General remains seriously concerned about the suspension of the Kaesong Industrial Complex. He is particularly concerned about the economic and humanitarian implications of this suspension," said a statement issued here by his spokesman.

The U.N. chief, who described the Kaesong Industrial Complex as "a successful example of inter-Korean cooperation which has promoted economic growth and served as a bridge between the two Koreas" in the statement, said the project "should not be affected by political and security considerations."

Ban had noted a proposal by the Republic of Korea on Thursday to hold a working-level talks with the DPRK over the Kaesong industrial park, the statement said.

"He sincerely hopes the operation of the Complex can return to normal as soon as possible through dialogue," the statement said.

"The Secretary-General has been closely following the situation on the Korean peninsula, and has sought to encourage dialogue between the two Koreas," it said, "He also appreciates the efforts of other concerned parties, including China, to this end."