North Korean state media labeled the warning shots a "deliberate provocation," accusing South Korea of raising the stakes. This incident comes amid ongoing efforts by North Korea to reinforce its border with the South, which is divided by the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ). The Joint Chiefs of Staff of South Korea reported that the North Korean troops crossed the military demarcation line but quickly retreated back north.
In response, North Korean Army Lt Gen Ko Jong Chol condemned the shots fired by South Korea's military, warning that such actions could spiral out of control. Tensions between the two Koreas have been high since the recent election of President Lee, who vowed to improve relations, yet North Korea remains dismissive of reconciliation efforts.
In June, South Korea had halted propaganda broadcasts aimed at the North, attempting to foster trust, but tensions have remained, as North Korea views such broadcasts as hostile acts. The two nations have technically been at war since the Korean War ended in 1953 without a peace treaty, leading to a precarious and ongoing conflict.
In response, North Korean Army Lt Gen Ko Jong Chol condemned the shots fired by South Korea's military, warning that such actions could spiral out of control. Tensions between the two Koreas have been high since the recent election of President Lee, who vowed to improve relations, yet North Korea remains dismissive of reconciliation efforts.
In June, South Korea had halted propaganda broadcasts aimed at the North, attempting to foster trust, but tensions have remained, as North Korea views such broadcasts as hostile acts. The two nations have technically been at war since the Korean War ended in 1953 without a peace treaty, leading to a precarious and ongoing conflict.
