South Korea demands an apology from North Korea for landmine blasts that injured three soldiers on the DMZ.
On 21 September, three South Korean military personnel were wounded when armed mines detonated on the Republic’s side of the DMZ. South Korean officials claim the explosive devices were placed by North Korea and that the incident violates the 1953 armistice that ended active combat in the Korean War.
North Korea has rejected responsibility, describing Seoul’s allegations as “groundless” and a “farce” designed to stoke tensions. Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, accused South Korea of fabricating the story for political and military provocation, calling the accusations a deliberate attempt by the South to shift blame.
The Republic’s defence ministers stated that the mines were likely planted by Pyongyang to fortify its border and demanded an immediate apology and cessation of such fortification activities. South Korea warned that the presence of mines on its side of the DMZ was a direct breach of the armistice and a threat to civilians and soldiers alike.
The United Nations Command, which aided on‑site investigations, affirmed its commitment to enforce the armistice agreement and prevent further escalation. It will address the breach through established armistice mechanisms while monitoring the situation on the peninsula.
