The UN Security Council unanimously passed tougher sanctions against North Korea on Thursday in response to the North's latest nuclear test. The resolution tightens financial sanctions and mandates checks on North Korean cargo.

In Seoul, meanwhile, diplomatic and security officials meet Friday to discuss responses to any North Korean provocation that may be triggered by the decision.

The new resolution, which now goes to a UN plenary session, prohibits North Korea from opening accounts in overseas banks if the money "could contribute to [North Korea's] nuclear or ballistic missile programs." It also bans foreign banks from opening branches in the North.

Members of the UN Security Council vote for tougher sanctions against North Korea over its latest nuclear test, at UN headquarters in New York on Thursday. /AP-Newsis

It also makes it mandatory to inspect ships and air planes carrying cargo to and from North Korea, and to monitor illicit activities by North Korean diplomats and the transfer of illegal funds by the North.

Two more North Korean entities and three individuals are to have their assets frozen and face a travel ban. All 193 member countries of the UN will have to abide by the resolution.

North Korea responded by threatening to exercise its "right to preemptive nuclear strikes" in order to protect its interests and accused the U.S. of provoking a nuclear war.

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