In a multifamily housing unit in the Naeyu-dong of Goyang City, a balloon sent from North Korea fell and caused a fire, threatening the safety of residents.
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According to fire authorities, the incident occurred yesterday at approximately 2:36 PM. Firefighters quickly responded and extinguished the blaze in about 25 minutes. Fortunately, there were no injuries, but about 64 square feet of rooftop sustained damage.
The fire was caused by a balloon sent from North Korea. On the morning of the incident, North Korea launched several balloons toward South Korea, which appeared to be carrying materials similar to propaganda leaflets, commonly referred to as trash-carrying balloons. These actions not only escalate tensions between the Koreas but also instill psychological unease among South Korean residents.
North Korea has frequently used trash-carrying balloons for propaganda purposes, sending balloons filled with anti-South Korean leaflets or other propaganda materials to sow confusion in South Korean society. This latest fire incident can be seen as an extension of that intent. It is particularly concerning because such actions can directly endanger residential areas, posing a severe threat to the safety of residents.
A total of 11 fire trucks and 28 personnel were deployed to extinguish the fire. Fire authorities stated that they prevented significant damage through quick response immediately after the fire broke out.
A Goyang City Fire Department representative said, “This incident resulted from an unexpected provocation by North Korea, and thorough responses are necessary to ensure the safety of residents.”
The government and military authorities declared that they would respond firmly to North Korea’s balloon launches toward South Korea. When such actions from North Korea continue, there is a high possibility of worsening inter-Korean relations and increasing tensions on the Korean Peninsula. There are urgent calls for comprehensive measures to ensure resident safety.
Another alarming incident occurred yesterday when a balloon believed to contain explosives was discovered near a playground at an apartment complex in Gwangju City, Gyeonggi Province. This situation significantly threatened the safety of children playing in the area.
The balloon in the playground had a device connected to wires that appeared to be a timer. At the time, firefighters and police set up a perimeter and transferred the balloon to the bomb disposal unit.
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