[NEWS ANALYSIS] Seoul awaits U.N. decision after summit

All eyes are on the U.N. Security Council as Seoul expects a decision on the international organization‘s response to the sinking of the Cheonan after a meeting with leaders of the world’s major powers.

In particular, how nations such as China and Russia -- countries with traditionally close ties with North Korea -- will react will be of significant interest as they both have the right to veto.

A no-go from either of the permanent members indicates that the Council will be unable to adopt a new resolution condemning Pyongyang.

Government officials and experts here have hinted that a chairman‘s statement denouncing the North may also suffice as long as there is a clear message.

“The Council needs to make sure that it sends a clear message criticizing the North for its actions,” said one official on the condition of anonymity. “If it does not, and then allows the North to come back to the six-way talks, how would it look?” 

A five-nation investigation team led by Seoul in May concluded that Pyongyang sank its 1,200-ton Navy corvette with a torpedo in March. The incident led to the deaths of 46 of the sailors aboard.

South Korea referred the issue of the Cheonan to the Council on June 4, calling it a clear military provocation that violates the U.N. Charter and the Armistice Agreement.

The 1950-53 Korean War ended in a cease-fire banning both Koreas from taking military action against the other. 

The U.N. Security Council, as it makes its decision, may take into account a recent statement issued by the G8 countries on Saturday while wrapping up a two-day summit in Canada.

President Lee Myung-bak (left) holds talks with Chinese President Hu Jintao in Toronto on Sunday. Yonhap News