A Unification Ministry official has stressed that the launch of a long-range rocket by North Korea would be a clear violation of UN resolutions.
 
The official made the remark to reporters on Tuesday after Pyongyang hinted that it could make such a move next month, when the North's ruling Workers' Party celebrates its 70th anniversary of foundation.
 
The official said that a ballistic missile launch by the North amounts to a grave provocation as well as a military threat. He noted that UN resolutions ban the North from all activities related to ballistic missile technologies.
 
The official said South Korea and the U.S. are closely monitoring related situations in North Korea but have not detected any unusual movements.
 
The official said that the North’s latest statement suggesting it could launch a missile next month is slightly different in its format in similar statements issued in 2009 and 2012. He said rather than prejudging the situation, there is a need to closely watch the North.
 
Asked if the North would be violating inter-Korean agreements reached during high-level talks last month if it goes forward with the launch, the official only said details will have to be comprehensively assessed at the time a launch occurs.
 
The official also said it is not appropriate to make preparations based on assumptions, regarding whether the North's missile launch would have any effect on scheduled inter-Korean family reunions in late October. The official added it is ironic and problematic to act as if the North’s plan for missile launch is an established fact.
 
Earlier on Monday, a key official at the North's National Aerospace Development Administration indicated that the North may launch a long-distance rocket around October 10 to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the founding of its ruling Workers' Party.