The Defense Ministry will make it clear in its defense white paper that North Korea poses a substantial threat to South Korea.

The ministry said Thursday that its white paper to be released at year’s end will clearly state that North Korea and its military are serious threats to South Korea.

The ministry, however, hinted that it may not label North Korea as the nation’s main enemy.

The ministry added that Seoul places top priority on the issue of South Korean prisoners of war in North Korea.