South Korea joins Proliferation Security Initiative
The Republic of South Korea said Tuesday it intends to join the Proliferation Security Initiative, a U.S.-led international effort to interdict weapons of mass destruction and delivery systems at sea.
Under PSI, navies from participating countries gain permission from certain flag states to allow vessels suspected of transporting nuclear weapons or material to be boarded at sea.
South Korea is the 95th nation to join the PSI.
North Korea issued a statement saying that South Korea's actions are tantamount to a 'declaration of war' and warning of serious consequences if South Korea stops any of its vessels.
North Korea on Monday conducted an underground nuclear test in violation of United Nations' resolutions.