The South Korean Red Cross has begun preparations to send flood relief supplies to North Korea.

In light of Seoul’s commitment to send emergency humanitarian support as soon as possible to the heavy rain and flood victims in North Korea, the Red Cross is contacting companies for supplies.

A Unification Ministry official said although North Korea has not replied yet, the South’s authorities believe going ahead with plans, including deciding on what items to send, would be more effective than waiting or negotiating for an answer. The official predicted that support could be sent to the North before the Chuseok holidays.