LOC12:30
09:30 GMT
TOKYO, Jan 18 (KUNA) -- South Korea will check the information on inbound air passengers, starting in April to sort out potential terrorists, as Seoul seeks to beef up security amid growing military threats from North Korea and ahead of major sporting events, Yonhap News Agency reported Wednesday.
The government also decided to establish a system that would enable state anti-terrorism institutions to quickly share related information and disseminate it to citizens in emergencies, government officials said.
These plans were endorsed at a session of the national counterterrorism panel, presided over by Acting President and Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn.
"Terrorist organizations could plot to carry out acts of terrorism regardless of the time and place even at this moment, and our citizens can also suffer damages at any time, like North Korea's rear-area operations given that North Korea has repeatedly threatened provocations," Hwang said during the session.
Also included in the anti-terrorism measures is the operation of a national anti-terror inspection team consisting of experts in firearms, explosives, and chemical, biological and radioactive materials.
To enhance security for the 2017 FIFA U-20 World Cup and 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, both in South Korea, Seoul also plans to form the counterterrorism and safety headquarters involving police, fire services and the military. (end)
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