North Korean balloons filled with trash have once again crossed the border into South Korea, landing on the grounds of the presidential complex in Seoul. The trash-filled balloons were safely collected by the South Korean presidential security service’s chemical, biological, and radiological response team, who confirmed that there was no danger or contamination. South Korean authorities did not disclose whether President Yoon Suk Yeol was present at the compound when the balloons landed.
This is the tenth instance of North Korean balloons drifting into South Korea since late May. The escalation follows South Korea’s increased broadcasting of propaganda and pop music at the demilitarized zone (DMZ) between the two Koreas, as well as firing drills conducted near the shared border area. The balloons from North Korea were originally a response to leaflets criticizing the North Korean government and the ruling Kim family that were sent from South Korea.
Despite the Korean War ending in 1953 with an armistice, the North and South are still technically in a state of war. The recent incidents further highlight the ongoing tensions between the two countries. The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff warned citizens to be vigilant as the trash balloons from North Korea continue to pose a potential threat. The situation remains tense as both sides navigate the delicate balance of peace and conflict on the Korean peninsula.
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Video “Why does North Korea keep sending waves of balloons full of trash towards South Korea? | DW News” was uploaded on 07/24/2024 to Youtube Channel DW News