South Korea Continues With Family Reunion Preparations Following Threats From North Korea

Earlier this week, North Korea's state-run Korean Central News Agency stated that if the U.S. and "other hostile forces" continue to "behave mischievously," the DPRK "is fully ready to cope with them with nuclear weapons at any time," according to CNN.

Despite the recent threat made by North Korea, South Korea stated that it will proceed with preparations for the reunion event scheduled to be held for separated families, according to VOA News.

A South Korean Unification Ministry official, who asked to remain anonymous, reportedly stated that the government would do its best to prepare for the event, which is set to begin in late October in Mount Kumkang, North Korea's resort. South Korea reportedly plans to send a team of officials to the resort on Wednesday to inspect a meeting room for the families.

There are high hopes that both sides will follow through with the upcoming reunion, as this is the first event since early last year, and only the second in the past 5 years, according to The Irish Independent.

South Korea has reportedly previously called for holding more regular reunions, but North Korea has been hesitant as it could open the country to influence.

More frequent meetings have proved to be difficult following North Korea's recent threats. There are questions as to whether North Korea's statements could be a violation of the inter-Korean agreement.

The South Korean Unification Ministry official reportedly stated that Seoul would "take proper actions if necessary."

Regardless of possibly heightening tensions, preparations continue.

Red Cross officials from both sides have reportedly exchanged lists of candidates for the reunion. A final list of participants will reportedly be exchanged next month.