Recently, tensions escalated between North and South Korea as the South’s military accused North Korea of sending balloons filled with excrement and rubbish over the border. South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik condemned this act, stating that North Korea is not a “normal country” and describing the balloon launch as a violation of international law and a threat to the safety of South Korean people.
In response, North Korea claimed the balloons were retaliation for propaganda leaflets sent by defectors and activists in South Korea. Additionally, Shin accused North Korea of launching rockets using prohibited ballistic missile technologies under UN resolutions, disguised as reconnaissance satellites.
Amidst the tensions, North Korea notified Japan of plans to launch a satellite-carrying rocket, and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un oversaw the firing of short-range ballistic missiles aimed at demonstrating preemptive attack capabilities. The US and South Korea also began joint drills involving over 90 aircraft.
As the situation unfolds, the region remains on edge, with the ongoing conflict between North and South Korea sparking concerns about potential escalation.