President Lee Myung-bak has urged the Unification Ministry to more actively deal with the issue of North Korean defectors.

Lee said Friday that the government plans to designate around three industrial complexes nationwide to create more jobs for the defectors.

The president stressed that the South Korean government follows its basic principles in responding to North Korean issues but at the same time maintains a flexible attitude in providing humanitarian aid.

Lee said although North Korean media have been aggressive lately, South Korean citizens remained indifferent and reacted maturely. He added that positive changes in inter-Korean relations will come if South Korea continues to deal with North Korea compassionately and based on its principles.