S. Korea Hardens Military Rules

In the aftermath of a deadly attack on an island near the nations’ border, South Korea’s president announced changes in the country’s rules of engagement on Thursday in order to prepare for any future attacks from North Korea. The shift in protocol allows for tougher retaliation against provocation from the North, and the South will also ramp up troop presence near the border. Despite the defensive stance, most analysts agree that a peaceful approach remains in each nation’s best interests. The South has also asked Beijing, an ally of North Korea, to watch their trades with the rogue nation, which has been suspected of shirking international economic sanctions.