(Unofficial Translation)

The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) conducted a ballistic missile launch in Sunan, Pyeongyang, on August 29. The Government of the Republic of Korea (ROK) condemns in the strongest terms this provocation by the DPRK which was conducted yet again despite the firm message of the international community conveyed through the adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2371 in response to the repeated provocations of the DPRK.

The DPRK regime should clearly understand that denuclearization is the only genuine path towards guaranteeing its security and economic development. Instead of reckless provocations, the DPRK should promptly come out to the path of dialogue for denuclearization.

If the DPRK continues its nuclear and missile provocations, the ROK government will respond strongly based upon a stalwart ROK-US alliance. The ROK Government maintains a robust readiness posture capable of responding to any threats by the DPRK and will remain steadfast in safeguarding the lives of its people and the security of the nation.