In a commentary on Tuesday, the council said that it was greatly disappointed to hear the news that the "government" intends to downgrade the consultation with the DPRK over the joint researches to a non-governmental level.

The authorities have no reason to refuse the DPRK's proposal as the issue of volcanic activities on Mt. Paektu is directly related to the life of the people, it added.

It urged the authorities to use the joint researches as an opportunity to pave the way for resuming the south-north dialogue and building mutual confidence.