South Korea’s foreign ministry has increased the terrorism alert level for five of its diplomatic missions in the region, including Seoul’s consulates in Vladivostok, Russia, Shenyang, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam.

The National Intelligence Service (NIS) has stated that North Korea is preparing to carry out terrorist attacks against diplomatic officers and citizens.

The North Korean government-run media has dismissed accusations of terrorism as an attempt by the United States to undermine Washington’s opponents.

The National Counter Terrorism Center of South Korea is meeting to discuss ways to safeguard diplomatic posts and staff.