Tensions have been heightened on the Korean peninsula after North Korea fired dozens of artillery rounds into the sea off its West Coast on Monday. The report came from a South Korean military official. YTN cable news channel, is reporting that the rounds were fired soon after a South Korean naval exercise was completed off the west coast at around 5 PM.

Tensions have been rising on the Korean peninsula ever since the sinking of a South Korean warship was blamed on the North buy the South. The United States supported the South in the accusation and yet North Korea backed by China denies any involvement.

In response to the sinking the United States and South Korea have been conducting military games and drills in the waters surrounding the Korean peninsula. These have been heavily criticized by China who claims that the South is trying to provoke a war and that the military drills pose a threat to international peace and security. China has also said that the drills pose a direct threat to its security.

Last Sunday a South Korean fishing vessel was seized by North Korea and seven people were detained. The South Korean government has urged North Korea to deal quickly with the case and release both the crew and their vessel in accordance with international law.

Some good news is that North Korea have agreed to a colonel level meeting at the Korean border to discuss the terms of more senior negotiations over recent tensions. It is hoped these may calm down situation and reduce the risk of further violence.

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