South Korea Fires Warning Shots as North Korean Soldiers Cross Border

On June 18, South Korea’s military fired warning shots after 20 to 30 North Korean soldiers briefly crossed the border. This was the third such incident this month. The soldiers retreated after the warning shots.

The incursions are believed to be accidental. North Korea has increased its military presence at the border since abandoning a 2018 military agreement. They have been expanding tactical roads and laying more landmines, leading to accidental explosions and casualties.

The incident occurred as Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Pyongyang for the first time in 24 years. During his visit, Russia and North Korea signed a mutual defense pact, raising concerns in Seoul, Tokyo, and Washington. South Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken condemned the treaty as a serious threat to regional peace and stability.

South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Russian ambassador Georgy Zinoviev to protest the pact. Zinoviev responded that threats and blackmail against Russia over its ties to North Korea were unacceptable.