Prime Minister Han Seung-soo has dismissed Japan's latest claim to the Dokdo islets, saying Korean sovereignty over the islets is not up for dispute.

He denounced Japan Sunday for hurting bilateral relations and regional peace in a meeting of ruling party lawmakers and government policy-makers.

Han also suggested a long-term strategic approach to Tokyo's attempt to turn Dokdo into a international dispute, saying Seoul will draw up measures to thwart the claim by strengthening effective control over the islets.

On the shooting death of a South Korean tourist in North Korea's Mount Geumgang, the prime minister pledged to shed light on the truth behind the incident and prevent a recurrence.

He said tours to the North Korean resort will be suspended until the truth is revealed and the safety of South Korean tourists guaranteed.