The National Security Office convened an emergency security meeting on August 20 following North Korea's launch of over ten short-range ballistic missiles into the East Sea from the Pyongyang area.
According to the Blue House, representatives from the Ministry of National Defense and the Joint Chiefs of Staff attended the meeting. The National Security Office reviewed South Korea's response to the missile launches and assessed the impact of these actions on national security.
Based on the analysis, the National Security Office directed relevant agencies to implement necessary measures.
Given that the Ulchi exercise is currently underway, officials emphasized the need to remain vigilant and prepared for potential further provocations from North Korea.
The missile launches occurred on the same day that President Lee Jae-myung met with Wang Yi, a member of the Central Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China and the Foreign Minister, at the Blue House. National Security Office Director Wi Seok-jun also held a separate meeting with Minister Wang.
During their discussions, President Lee and Minister Wang addressed the development of South Korea-China relations and the situation on the Korean Peninsula. Director Wi explained the concept of peaceful coexistence on the Korean Peninsula and urged constructive cooperation from China regarding a phased and practical approach to denuclearization starting with a 'halt.'
This marks the third ballistic missile launch by North Korea this month. On August 6, North Korea fired one short-range ballistic missile into the East Sea from the Wonsan area around 5 p.m., marking its first missile provocation in 42 days since June 25.
On August 12, another missile was launched from Wonsan into the East Sea around 6 a.m., flying over 700 kilometers, with South Korean and U.S. intelligence agencies analyzing its specifications.
With the additional launch of over ten short-range ballistic missiles from the Pyongyang area, North Korea has now conducted 12 ballistic missile launches this year, with three occurring this month alone on the 6th, 12th, and 20th.
The National Security Office stated, "North Korea's ballistic missile launches are serious violations of United Nations Security Council resolutions," urging an immediate halt to these actions.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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