North Korean balloons carrying rubbish have landed on the compound of South Korea’s presidential office for the first time, causing Seoul to mobilize chemical response teams. The balloons, part of a series launched by Pyongyang since May, dropped wastepaper, cloth scraps, cigarette butts, and even manure. South Korea’s military confirmed that more balloons were flying north of Seoul on Wednesday.
The South Korean security service safely collected the trash balloons and confirmed no danger or contamination. If North Korea intentionally targeted the presidential office with the balloons, it could lead to a strong response from South Korea. The resumption of balloon flights comes after South Korea escalated its propaganda broadcasts and K-pop music across the border.
North Korea sees South Korean civilian leafleting activities as a threat to its control over information flow, prompting past aggressive responses. The North’s balloons have raised concerns about the potential release of hazardous materials. South Korea has increased its anti-North propaganda broadcasts in retaliation for the balloon launches.
The cycle of escalating tensions between the two Koreas may have serious consequences if not addressed. South Korean broadcasts have the potential to demoralize North Korean troops and residents, as seen in past incidents where North Korea retaliated with artillery fire. The situation remains volatile, with both sides warning of grave consequences.
Source
Photo credit www.theguardian.com