Drone Intrusions Fuel Tensions Between Koreas

South Korea's Unification Minister Chung Dong-young reveals civilian drone flights to North Korea, straining inter-Korean relations. South Korean authorities are probing the incidents, implicating both civilians and intelligence officials. The government plans harsher penalties for drone operations violating national security laws, amidst heightened tension from previous drone intrusions.

South Korea's Unification Minister Chung Dong-young disclosed that three civilians dispatched drones to North Korea, worsening bilateral relations. This revelation came as Chung recounted drone flights occurring from September 2025 to January. South Korean authorities continue to investigate the law-violating acts, impacting both police and the military.

In two instances, the drones returned to Paju, South Korea, after violating North Korean airspace over Kaesong. Investigations target suspected breaches of the aviation safety act and aiding the enemy. Some from South Korea's military intelligence and National Intelligence Service are equally under scrutiny.

Tensions further escalated after North Korea accused South Korean drones of airspace violations. Chung lamented previous operations launched under ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol and announced potential penalties like jail terms and fines to deter future incursions. Adjustments to the inter-Korean relations act aim to mitigate escalations.

(With inputs from agencies.)