The meeting came while Seoul is struggling with a series of diplomatic challenges including growing friction with China over the planned deployment of a US missile defense system to the peninsula and a rekindled row over Japan's wartime sexual slavery.

During the meeting, Hwang reiterated that Seoul, in tandem with the international community, would seek to change Pyongyang's "strategic calculus" about its nuclear and missile programs through strong sanctions and pressure.

"The Seoul government will protect its nation and people's safety from North Korea's nuclear and missile threats and provocations," Hwang said. "We will also continue to value our role as a responsible state that contributes to peace and prosperity in Northeast Asia and the world."

Hwang went on to highlight his determination to minimize the negative impact of internal and external risk factors such as isolationist tendencies abroad, and prioritize the task of stably managing state affairs.

Before the gathering, Hwang met one-on-one with outgoing US
Ambassador to Seoul Mark Lippert and shared his appreciation for Lippert's role in helping strengthen the South Korea-US alliance.

"I highly evaluate the fact that South Korea and the US have built a relationship that has gone beyond the security partnership to become a mutually beneficial partnership and a global partnership that has contributed to tackling issues facing mankind," Hwang said.

Lippert was quoted by Hwang's office as saying that he would continue to play a role in the development of the alliance after he leaves office on Jan. 20 in time for the swearing-in of the new Republican administration. (Yonhap)