THAAD to be installed as planned: acting president

By Kang Yoon-seung

SEOUL, March 3 (Yonhap) -- South Korea will push forward with the installation of an advanced U.S. missile defense system despite objections raised by China, Acting President and Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn said Friday

"The deployment of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery is a vital defense measure to meet national security needs and protect people's lives from North Korea's nuke and missile threats. I reiterate that it will not affect any other third country," Hwang said.

"As China's protest against the deployment is expected to escalate when the full-fledged steps begin, we will continue to keep watchful eyes on actions taken by Beijing, while expanding communication with China. We will come up with necessary measures at the appropriate time," he added.

The remarks came after China ordered travel firms to suspend tours to South Korea earlier this week.

China and Russia have been expressing concerns that the THAAD system hurts their strategic interests. South Korea's defense ministry plans to complete the installation as early as May.

The acting president added the assassination of the North Korean leader's half brother showed the brutality of the reclusive regime.

Hwang said North Korea used an illegal chemical weapon to assassinate Kim Jong-nam, adding that biochemical terrorism emerged as another potential danger. Kim was killed by VX nerve agent on Feb. 13 in Kuala Lumpur.

"The government is currently cooperating with the Malaysian authorities to find out the truth behind the incident. We are also bolstering protection of defectors (in South Korea) and preparing against further provocations by North Korea," Hwang added. "The incident showed how unpredictable North Korea really is."

colin@yna.co.kr
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