South Korea threatens 'revenge' for any North Korea attack

South Korea's defence chief on Wednesday urged his soldiers to launch strong counter-attacks if provoked by the North as the two Koreas exchanged tirades despite a recent nuclear deal.

Defence Minister Kim Kwan-Jin said any fresh attacks from the North must be turned into a chance for the South's military to "avenge" the North's 2010 bombardment of a South Korean frontline island.

"If the North carries out any provocative act, you must punish them strongly by pounding not only the origins of such provocations but also their supporting units until they completely surrender," the minister said.

He made the remarks while visiting Yeonpyeong island near the disputed Yellow Sea border, against which the North mounted artillery attacks in 2010, killing four South Koreans and briefly sparking fears of war. Read More