North Korea Claims to Have Found South Korean Military Drone
North Korea recently released photos of a South Korean military drone that they claim to have found in Pyongyang. Analysts have confirmed that the drone bears a resemblance to South Korean military drones.
According to state media KCNA, Seoul has been using drones to drop propaganda over the capital city of Pyongyang.
While KCNA stated that it is likely the drone found is the one responsible for scattering leaflets over the center of Pyongyang Municipality, they have not yet confirmed this conclusion.
Discovery of the Crashed Drone
A North Korean defense ministry spokesperson reported that authorities discovered the remains of the crashed drone during a search of the capital on October 13, as per KCNA.
The North’s investigation has “scientifically proved” that the drone originated from South Korea, the official claimed.
Images released by North Korea depict the recovered drone, showing an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) lodged in a tree and North Korean officials inspecting it.
Drone Detection as a ‘Declaration of War’
Pyongyang reiterated its warning that any future drone incursion would be perceived as “a declaration of war” and promised immediate retaliation.
Initially, South Korea’s military denied sending drones, but later stated that there is “no value in verifying or responding to North Korea’s unilateral claims.”
According to Hong Min, a senior analyst at the Korea Institute for National Unification, the drone found in North Korea is clearly a long-range reconnaissance small drone used by the South Korean military.
Escalating Tensions in the Korean Peninsula
Tensions between North and South Korea have been escalating as relations between the two countries continue to deteriorate.
Recently, Seoul accused North Korea of sending troops, including special forces, to Russia to support its activities in Ukraine.
South Korea’s military also reported firing warning shots near its heavily fortified border after North Korean forces allegedly destroyed roads along the border.
Pyongyang has vowed to permanently seal off its southern border, and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has frequently threatened to use nuclear weapons against South Korea and the United States if attacked.
Recent Developments
Amid stalled diplomatic communication, North Korea has been conducting provocative missile tests, while South Korea has intensified its military exercises with the US.
The video below provides additional insights into the current state of relations between North and South Korea.
ss/jcg (AP, AFP, Reuters)