The government will first request information on North Korea's bird flu crisis before offering any aid.

Vice Unification Minister Rhee Bong-jo, speaking to reporters after an emergency government meeting, said accurate information is required to prevent the spread of bird flu to South Korea, and that he will ask for thorough measures to prevent the spread.

He said that after receiving data on bird flu, any necessary aid including medical technology and medicine can be sent if the North so requests.

Rhee said the government will also seek help from the World Health Organization to contain the disease as soon as possible and to prevent further spread.

On Sunday, Pyongyang acknowledged for the first time its outbreak of bird flu.