Seoul:North Korea appears surprised by South Korea's findings that blame Pyongyang for a recent mine explosion near the inter-Korean border, as well as the subsequent mine-clearing operation, according to Defense Minister Kang Shin-chul.
According to Yonhap News Agency, North Korea has denied responsibility for the explosion on September 21, which injured two South Korean soldiers, dismissing South Korea's investigation as a fabrication. The North's foreign ministry released a statement through state media a day after South Korea concluded that North Korean troops deliberately planted the mines. In response, South Korea conducted a clearance operation to remove additional mines.
Defense Minister Kang noted that North Korea's reaction was delayed compared to previous swift statements. He also indicated that the foreign ministry, rather than a higher authority like Kim Yo-jong, issued the statement, suggesting a moderated response.
Kang informed lawmakers that all mines in the area have been cleared, despite acknowledging that many North Korean mines are likely still buried south of the Military Demarcation Line (MDL). He emphasized that joint verification with the U.N. Command (UNC) is needed.
South Korea is considering countermeasures, viewing the mine-laying activities as violations of the Armistice Agreement. The defense ministry plans to declare these actions as violations formally and demand North Korea halt border breaches.
Efforts are also underway to initiate inter-Korean military talks to prevent future incidents and discuss reopening communication hotlines. The ministry highlighted challenges in maintaining accurate border markers, with most of the original MDL markers deteriorating over time.
In terms of military collaboration with the U.S., South Korea is pushing for a roadmap to expedite the transition of wartime operational control. A provisional plan for the Future Combined Forces Command has been agreed upon, with further evaluations planned. The ministry aims to establish a combined special operations component command by the end of the year.