S.Korea leader vows non-specific ‘consequences’ for N.Korean attack

Lee Myung-bak's nationally televised speech came as a nuclear-powered U.S. super-carrier and a South Korean destroyer participated in joint military exercises, a united show of force nearly a week after an incident that has, since then, escalated considerably.

"Only a few meters away from where shells landed, there is a school where classes were going on," Lee said. "I am outraged by the ruthlessness of the North Korean regime, which is even indifferent to the lives of little children."

"If the North commits any additional provocations against the South, we will make sure that it pays a dear price without fail," Lee said.

He didn't offer specifics about what consequences the North would face, and he offered few details on what actions South Korea will take in response to last week's attack, other than promising to strengthen the military.

In the speech, Lee Myung-bak took responsibility for the N.Korean artillery barrage that shook Yeonpyeong Island and killed four, including two civilians.

"I feel deeply responsible for failing to protect my people's lives and property," Lee said. In South Korea, it is not rare for top officials to resign, apologize or express responsibility when their government faces public criticism.

The local government placed the front-line island under military control, which could mean the evacuation of about 300 remaining residents, journalists and officials.

The decision allows the military to restrict the movement of civilians into and out of the island. South Korea's Defense Ministry said it would discuss whether to evacuate.

At the same time, classified US State Department documents leaked by online whistle-blower WikiLeaks revealed discussions between the US and S.Korea on possible scenarios for the reunification of the peninsula, as the US worries over N.Korea’s nuclear weapons program.

Lee has come under heavy fire for what opponents have called lapses in S.Korea's response to the attack. Lee has replaced his defense minister, ordered reinforcements for the 4,000 troops on Yeonpyeong and four other Yellow Sea islands and upgraded the country’s rules of engagement.

The speech was followed by a fresh threat of attack to S.Korea and the US by North Korea within minutes, calling the allies' joint war drills "yet another grave military provocation."