The Republic of Korea (ROK) on Thursday said the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) shot dead a missing ROK official and burned his body earlier this week, condemning its "brutality" and calling for explanations and punishment for those responsible, local media reported citing defense ministry.

The 47-year-old official affiliated with the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries disappeared from the 500-tonne boat before noon Monday while on duty aboard an inspection boat in waters off the western border island of Yeonpyeong.

"Our military strongly condemns such a brutal act and strongly urges the North to provide an explanation and punish those responsible," the defense ministry said in a statement, adding that "we also sternly warn North Korea (DPRK) that all responsibilities for this incident lie with it."