The National Police Agency has put provincial police agencies and stations with jurisdiction over areas near the border on high alert, officials announced Tuesday.

The alert raises border security to a level similar to that during natural disasters and public disorder, putting 30 percent of the police force on standby. The move comes after North Korea’s state media announced Monday the death of its leader Kim Jong-il. The announcement has put the government and its citizens on alert for possible provocations from the reclusive North.

The areas affected include police agencies and stations in Seoul, Incheon, and Gyeonggi and Gangwon Provinces.

The alert has agency superintendent generals and station superintendents holding meetings twice a day on the situation.

Seoul has also put its customs officials overseeing inbound freight at airports and harbors on high alert.

By Robert Lee (robert@heraldcorp.com)