S. Korean president convenes security officials over North

PanARMENIAN.Net - South Korea's president has convened a meeting of security officials after the shock execution of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's uncle, BBC News reports.

Ahead of the meeting President Park Geun-hye warned of possible "reckless provocations" by the North and called for increased border vigilance.

Last week's execution of Chang Song-thaek left the region in a "grave and unpredictable" situation, she said.

Chang, a key figure, was executed for allegedly planning a coup. The move - together with the recall of a North Korean business team from China - prompted concerns that Chang's associates were being purged as part of a campaign by Kim Jong-un to consolidate his power.

China's foreign minister, meanwhile, said he believed an "important change" was taking place inside North Korea. China - which in state media has called for Kim Jong-un to visit Beijing - was "closely watching" the situation, Wang Yi said.

"Given the latest development in the North, it is uncertain in what direction its political situation would evolve," Ms Park said early on Monday, Dec 16 "We also can't rule out the possibility of contingencies such as reckless provocations."

The president later met her foreign affairs and security officials in a specially convened session to discuss events in the North.

Meanwhile, North Korea has been keen to present an image of business as usual, the BBC says. A government official in Pyongyang said on Sunday that the country's economic plans would carry on undisrupted.

At the same time, Kim has continued with his usual public appearances, visiting a military design institute and a construction site.

The young leader's uncle was executed on Thursday after appearing before a special tribunal. He was accused of multiple crimes, including damaging the economy and trying to build a power-base.

Chang had been seen as a power-behind-the-throne figure and a mentor to Kim Jong-un. His execution has sparked fears of military action by Pyongyang as a way to build unity in the country.