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S. Korean Defense Minister vows to ‘sever vicious cycle’ of NK provocations

August 21, 2015
South Korea Defense Minister Han Min-koo speaks to his country's military on Aug. 21, 2015. (Yonhap)

South Korea Defense Minister Han Min-koo speaks to his country’s military on Aug. 21, 2015. (Yonhap)

With mounting tensions on the Korean peninsula, South Korean Defense Minister Han Min-koo had some strong words for North Korea.

He described the landmine explosion and artillery fire across the border as “cowardly criminal acts.”

“As the Minister of Defense, while giving utmost priority to protecting our citizens, I will seek to sever the vicious cycle of North Korea’s provocations,” he said while addressing the South Korean military on Friday.

The North declared that it is ready for an “all out war” and has made it clear through its own news media that it is mobilizing its military for combat.

South Korean Vice Defense Minister Baek Seung-joo said that his government anticipates to receive more attacks along the border where the South’s loudspeaker propaganda campaigns continue to be active.

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged both countries to stop any exchanges that may further escalate the ongoing situation.

Because the Korean War ended in 1953 on a truce and not a treaty, the two countries are still technically at war.