The President vowed to increase military forces on five islands near the North Korean border in the Yellow Sea during an emergency meeting on security and economic repercussions on Thursday, November 25.

In response to North Korea’s deadly artillery attack on November 23, the President also ordered high-tech reinforcements and defense equipment to better guard the islands, reversing a 2006 decision to eventually decrease defenses.

The President (center) convenes an emergency meeting with his economic and security ministers at Cheong Wa Dae on Nov. 25.

 
During the meeting, the President expressed concern over the possibility of further provocations by North Korea, and emphasized that the government must be on high alert.

The President commanded stern measures for “substantial military intensification” in the area around the Yellow Sea at the briefing.

The President (center) pays silent tribute to the victims of North Korea’s attack.

 
The President strongly condemned Pyongyang’s actions and warned North Korea of relentless retaliation in the event of additional military aggression. However, he also insisted that daily life in South Korea, including economic activities, must continue as always to maintain stability.

Meanwhile, Korean Prime Minister Kim Hwang-sik received special directions from the president to conduct daily briefings on the situation.