South Korea’s Military Threatens Retaliation Over North Korea’s 31st Balloon Launch

The South Korean military has condemned North Korea’s 31st launch of propaganda balloons as an intolerable act of provocation.

On Saturday, Nam Ki Soo, spokesperson for South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS), issued a stern warning: “Despite our repeated admonitions, North Korea once again launched these offensive balloons in the early hours of today.”

Nam emphasized that North Korea’s deployment of over 7,000 crude and malicious balloons has not only caused anxiety among South Korean citizens but also resulted in both human and property damage. He noted that some balloons even landed near venues hosting international dignitaries, constituting an unacceptable provocation.

“North Korea has crossed a red line,” Nam declared. “We strongly caution that they will bear full responsibility for any consequences arising from these actions. They must cease testing our military’s resolve.”

The JCS had earlier reported that North Korea resumed launching propaganda balloons toward South Korea early that day. This incident marks the 31st launch this year, just 25 days after the previous one on October 24.

Due to prevailing wind patterns, South Korean military officials stated that the balloons are expected to drift toward Gyeonggi Province and the greater Seoul metropolitan area. Citizens have been urged to exercise caution regarding any potential falling debris. “If you encounter any fallen balloons, do not touch them,” the military advised. “Instead, immediately report the discovery to the nearest military installation or law enforcement agency.”

Analysts believe that the latest balloon launch may be a response to anti-regime leaflets reportedly distributed by South Korean civic groups.