South Korea's defense ministry says its marines are conducting a live-fire artillery drill on Yeonpyeong island, which was shelled by North Korea in 2010.

The ministry says the drills, near the disputed sea border separating North and South Korea, are the first since the death of North Korean leader Kim Jong Il last month. Artillery drills are also taking place on the nearby island of Baengnyeong. An official described the artillery drills as routine.

A similar drill on Yeonpyeong island in 2010 prompted a North Korean artillery bombardment that killed four South Koreans.