South Korea has demanded an apology and “responsible measures” from North Korea after a landmine explosion in the Demilitarized Zone injured three South Korean soldiers.
The blast occurred on September 21 during a search operation south of the Military Demarcation Line. South Korea’s military said its investigation found that North Korean anti-personnel mines were highly likely responsible for the explosions, with two of the injured soldiers suffering critical injuries.
The United Nations Command, which oversees the Korean War armistice, said a joint investigation identified an active North Korean mine on the South Korean side of the Military Demarcation Line and determined that an Armistice Agreement violation had occurred.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff urged Pyongyang to halt its border-fortification activities, including mine-laying, warning that North Korea would bear responsibility for any future consequences.
North Korea has rejected the accusation. Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un, described Seoul’s findings as fabricated and warned of retaliation if South Korean troops use live fire against North Korean personnel involved in border work.
The dispute adds to already heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula, where communication channels between the two governments remain severely limited.
The incident also raises concerns about the risk of further confrontation as both sides continue military activities along one of the world’s most heavily fortified borders.
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