South Korea Demands Apology from North Over Landmine Blasts
Three South Korean soldiers were injured when landmines exploded along the 4‑km-wide demilitarised zone (DMZ) on 21 September, an area that has long been a flash‑point between the two Koreas.
The South Korean defence ministry said the blasts, which occurred on its side of the border, were "highly likely" to have been set by North Korea. It called for an immediate apology and for the cessation of any further fortification activity.
North Korea denied responsibility, accusing Seoul of using the incident as a political provocation. Kim Yo‑jong, the sister of leader Kim Jong Un, called the claim a “farce” and warned the South of the “price” to be paid if tensions escalated.
The UN Command, which led the investigation, affirmed it would handle the alleged violation of the 1953 armistice through established mechanisms. It reiterated its commitment to stability on the peninsula.
This latest flare follows earlier incidents, including a 2015 mine attack that wounded two South Korean soldiers. Both sides have repeatedly denounced each other in the wake of these tragedies.
