Government says North Korea responsible for consequences from Kaesong shutdown

South Korea said on Friday that North Korea would be held responsible for any consequences after the North kicked out South Korean workers and froze the assets of companies at the jointly run Kaesong Industrial Complex.

South Korean Unification Minister Hong Yong-pyo told a news conference that North Korea's action to freeze the assets was "illegal" and warned the North not to do anything to damage the property of South Korean companies.

"The North's conduct is very regrettable and we make it clear that the North will be responsible for everything that happens," Hong said.