1. The government of the Republic of Korea welcomes the entry into force of the North Korea Sanctions and Policy Enhancement Act of 2016 upon the signing of the Act by US President Obama on February 19.

2. The Act, which the US Congress passed in an unprecedentedly swift manner based on bipartisan support, is the first sanctions act exclusively targeting North Korea. The Act is expected to provide a foundation for the US administration to take strong and effective measures.

o The Act shows the strong determination of the US to respond firmly to North Korea’s nuclear test and long-range missile launch.

3. In addition to the measures that have been taken by the ROK government and other countries around the world, the entry into force of the Act is expected to contribute to strengthening the international community’s united response to make sure that North Korea pays the corresponding price for its nuclear and missile provocations.

4. The ROK government, together with the international community, will take all possible measures so that North Korea has no choice but to give up its nuclear weapons program and change.


* unofficial translation