"I hope that the defense ministry picks a proper alternate site (for THAAD) that excludes the Seongsan (anti-aircraft) base," he said, noting that he felt that opposing the THAAD deployment without suggesting an alternative would not lead to a fundamental resolution of the issue.

"Security is the cornerstone that props up the nation, and citizens cannot exist without a nation," he added.

An area near the Lotte Skyhill Golf Course in northern Seongju has been emerging as a likely alternate site, especially since military officials view other sites suggested by residents in the past as being unsuitable due to the mountainous terrain and lack of roads that can make deployment difficult by the end of 2017.

Before the press conference, some Seongju residents scuffled with the police while expressing their vehement opposition to any decision to station a THAAD battery in any part of the county.

The opponents have been concerned that THAAD's powerful radar could pose health risks and hurt their crops. They also argue that the military asset could undermine the county's peaceful ambiance, and that the county could turn into a military target in case of an armed conflict on the peninsula.

Meanwhile, Defense Minister Han Min-koo plans to brief ruling Saenuri Party leader Lee Jung-hyun on the THAAD deployment issue during a closed-door meeting at the National Assembly in the afternoon, a party official told Yonhap News Agency, declining to be identified.  (Yonhap)