Ankara: South Korea's acting President Han Duck-soo has urged the military to maintain a state of readiness in response to perceived threats from North Korea, following criticism from Pyongyang regarding recent joint naval exercises involving South Korea, Japan, and the United States.

According to Anadolu Agency, Han addressed an emergency National Security Council meeting on Monday, emphasizing the importance of military preparedness against North Korean threats. He highlighted the need for cooperation with allied nations and the international community, stressing the significance of the South Korea-US alliance in ensuring the execution of diplomatic policies that prioritize national interests.

North Korea, on Tuesday, issued a statement condemning the four-day trilateral naval exercises conducted by the US, South Korea, and Japan. The Korean Central News Agency, a state-run media outlet, reported that North Korea perceives these drills as a direct challenge to its nuclear and missile capabilities, as well as its maritime sovereignty. The North warned that any provocations would be met with decisive counteractions.

The North Korean statement further accused the current US administration of intensifying geopolitical tensions in the Korean Peninsula and surrounding regions.

Additionally, Han addressed the ongoing trade war and geopolitical challenges, underscoring his commitment to safeguarding South Korea's national interests amidst these complexities.

In a related development, South Korea's Constitutional Court dismissed the impeachment of Han on Monday, allowing him to continue serving as acting president. This decision comes amid political instability following President Yoon Suk Yeol's suspension, with opposition parties and civil society groups questioning Yoon's controversial policies.