South Korea’s military has stated it is “fully ready” to respond after North Korea ordered its border troops to prepare artillery fire amid tensions over alleged drone flights into Pyongyang.
North Korea accused Seoul of sending drones over its capital to drop propaganda leaflets, warning that further incidents would be seen as “a declaration of war.”
Pyongyang claims the drones breached its airspace three times, with Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, labeling the flights “an unpardonable, malicious challenge” and threatening severe consequences if they continue.
While South Korea’s military has not confirmed or denied involvement in the alleged drone operations, it dismissed the accusations as “shameless.”
Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesperson Lee Seong-joon noted that North Korea couldn’t confirm the origin of the drones but was quick to blame the South, while ignoring its own drone flights into South Korean territory on multiple occasions.
In response, North Korea ordered eight artillery brigades to prepare for firing and reinforced air surveillance in Pyongyang. Tensions have escalated after North Korea announced plans to seal its border and destroy roads connecting to the South, which could happen “as early as today,” according to South Korean officials.
Seoul’s Unification Ministry suggested that the North’s accusations may be an attempt to rally domestic support or justify further provocations. Some experts believe that if the drone flights occurred, they may have exposed weaknesses in North Korea’s air defense.
Kim Yo Jong also blamed the United States, accusing Washington of supporting Seoul’s actions, saying, “If the sovereignty of a nuclear weapons state is violated by mongrels tamed by Yankees, the master of those dogs must be held accountable.”
There is speculation in South Korea that the drones may have been launched by activist groups, known for sending propaganda and US currency into the North via balloons, rather than by the government itself.
The United Nations Command, which oversees the Korean War armistice, announced an investigation into North Korea’s claims. As tensions rise, South Korea remains on high alert, closely monitoring the situation and preparing for potential military actions from the North.
