Sanaa:Defense Minister Kang Shin-chul stated that the demining operation at the site of two mine explosions in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) was "the first such operation in the history of our DMZ" and described it as "a firm response."
According to Yonhap News Agency, when reporters highlighted that the military's response seemed passive and defensive, Kang refuted the criticism, asserting, "That's not the case." However, his comments did not meet public expectations.
North Korean troops had previously crossed the Military Demarcation Line and planted mines on South Korean territory, which resulted in serious injuries to South Korean soldiers engaged in legitimate operations. This act was deemed a clear military provocation and a breach of the Armistice Agreement. The South Korean military's investigation confirmed that the explosions were caused by North Korea's intentional placement of mines in the area.
On Monday, following the release of its findings, the South Korean military detonated and removed North Korean mines from the accident site, marking South Korea's first substantial response to the provocation. Military officials stated that demining efforts would continue in the DMZ unless North Korea voluntarily removed the mines it installed south of the MDL.
Despite the necessity of removing the mines, few South Koreans consider it a decisive response for the military to bear the costs and risks involved. The area south of the MDL is South Korean territory, and removing the mines is viewed as a fundamental military duty and a basic safety measure.
On Tuesday, North Korea issued a warning that it would take "immediate and strong action" if South Korea encroached "even 1 millimeter into North Korean territory." This rhetoric contrasts with South Korea's perceived weak and passive stance, as it demands an apology and voluntary mine removal without using equally strong language.
Minister Kang has stated that North Korea holds "all responsibility" but was reserved about further measures, commenting, "We will continue to take the necessary measures, but I cannot discuss them." He also suggested talks with the North Korean military to verify the MDL's location, raising questions about his plans for a strong response.
North Korea has mocked South Korea's handling of the incident, calling it a "self-staged clown show" and has further provoked with missile launches. This behavior is seen as a consequence of South Korea's continued pursuit of dialogue.
South Korea is urged to deter further provocations by making North Korea accountable for territorial encroachments while avoiding armed conflict. Potential measures include propaganda broadcasts, unilateral sanctions targeting North Korea's cyber activities, and diplomatic pressure.
President Lee Jae Myung did not address the mine explosions at a recent Cabinet meeting. Previously, Lee had made strong statements regarding South Korean citizens' safety abroad, but his resolve seems lacking concerning North Korea, referring to the mine explosions as an "unforeseen accident." Additionally, some commanders reportedly had troops on guard without loaded magazines, fearing firearm accidents could affect their promotions.