Beijing renews plea for restraint

Wen stresses need to resume talks as ROK defense chief quits over clash

BEIJING - China renewed its call on Thursday for all sides to exert restraint over escalating tension on the Korean Peninsula, as Seoul announced it will strengthen its military force on five islands close to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).

Meanwhile, the Republic of Korea (ROK) defense minister resigned amid intense criticism of its military's response to the North's barrage on Tuesday.