South Korea‘s government on Friday lifted an emergency standby order issued for all government officials after the death of North Korean leader Kim Jong-il because of concerns it could dampen domestic demand.

Officials at agencies handling foreign affairs, security and policing will continue to remain on an emergency footing, senior presidential press secretary Choe Guem-nak said.

The change was decided at a National Security Council meeting President Lee Myung-bak presided over.

South Korea put all government officials on emergency standby Monday immediately after North Korea announced Kim’s death. The order restricted officials from taking vacations or having year-end office parties, raising concern it could have negative effects on the economy.

“We made the decision, considering that we‘re thoroughly taking care of the security situation on the Korean Peninsula and that if this is extended, it could lead to” domestic demand shrinking, Choe said. (Yonhap News)