SMEs ministry reviews Ulchi plans for 13 offices

The SMEs ministry on Monday reviewed the emergency-readiness plans of 13 regional offices and affiliated bodies ahead of the Aug. 18-21 Ulchi exercise.

The preparatory briefing, held in the ministry's meeting room in Sejong, was convened to share progress on the exercise and assess wartime-transition procedures, duty-execution systems and cooperation arrangements with related agencies. First Vice Minister Noh Yong-seok and ministry bureau directors attended.

"Ulchi is an important exercise for maintaining government functions without disruption in a national emergency and for practically testing the SME support system," Noh said.

Officials received an overall progress report from the emergency and disaster officer and shared each bureau's priorities and preparation plans. They also reviewed emergency call-up drills for civil servants, plans to establish wartime organizations and a comprehensive situation room, and the relocation of backup facilities.

The ministry described Ulchi as a national emergency-preparedness exercise that includes procedures and practical drills for security threats such as localized provocations and cyberterrorism. It will test the effectiveness of the Chungmu Plan.

The check will cover wartime business aid, supplies of raw materials and components, and contingency measures for business sites.