Han Duck-soo, acting president and prime minister, said on the 28th, "Based on strong combat capability and a firm readiness, we will respond immediately and overwhelmingly to any provocation from North Korea."
Acting Prime Minister Han noted during the memorial ceremony for the 10th West Sea Defense Day held at the Daejeon National Cemetery in Yuseong-gu that day, "North Korea continues its threatening provocations through missile launches and jamming while insisting on the 'hostile two-state theory.'"
He stated, "Even amid these threats from North Korea, the government and military are fully prepared to ensure that the people can live their daily lives in peace," adding, "By further solidifying the Korea-U.S. alliance and strengthening collaboration with the international community, we will maintain a security posture that prevents North Korea from even daring to challenge the Republic of Korea."
Before the memorial ceremony, Acting Prime Minister Han visited the gravesite of the Second Yeonpyeong Battle and the Yeonpyeong Island shelling, the gravesite of the 46 soldiers of the Cheonan, and the grave of the late Chief Warrant Officer Han Joo-ho, to pay respects together with family members and veterans.
Acting Prime Minister Han remarked, "I will take full responsibility and support for the heroes who sacrificed everything for the nation and the people, as well as for those injured and their families," adding, "I hope today’s event becomes an opportunity for all citizens to unite and affirm their determination to forever protect our sea and homeland, the Republic of Korea, in honor of the West Sea Defense heroes."