UPI reports that “U.S. and South Korean marines conducted an unprecedented joint drill on Thursday that simulated the rescue of North Korean refugees.”

“The drill was part of a larger U.S.-South Korea joint landing operation exercise and was held in an area near the South Korean city of Pohang, South Korean newspaper Maeil Business reported Thursday.”

“The exercises began on Oct. 29 and are to conclude on Nov. 6. South Korea’s navy and marines formed a dedicated unit for civilian operations for the first time. The unit practiced duties that covered the reception, management and medical support of North Korean refugees.”