"The (South Korean) government strongly condemns North Korea's provocation this time and gravely warns that it will take a path of self-destruction in the near future if it fails to end its delusion of nuclear and missile provocations," Hwang said.

Stressing that the South Korean and US militaries will stage their "largest-ever" annual joint exercise next month, the acting president stressed that Seoul will seek to strengthen international cooperation in countering the communist regime's persistent military threats.

"Our government, based on a solid South Korea-US combined defense posture, will unwaveringly safeguard the lives of our citizens and national security," he said.

Despite security challenges weighing on the government, Hwang said he would strive to focus on revitalizing the sluggish economy and enhancing the livelihoods of ordinary citizens.

"First of all, to find a breakthrough in our efforts to reinvigorate the economy, we will accelerate our endeavors to bolster exports and help local firms win high-return overseas infrastructure deals and expand their presence in foreign markets," he said.

The participants in the meeting included Finance Minister Yoo Il-ho; In Myung-jin, the party's interim leader; and Chung Woo-taik, the floor leader of the party. (Yonhap)