Escalating Tensions Over Balloon Propaganda
South Korea’s National Security Council announced on Sunday, June 9, that it will start loudspeaker broadcasts directed at North Korea, a move deemed “unbearable” for the Kim Jong Un regime. This decision follows North Korea’s resumption of sending balloons filled with trash across the border.
Recent balloon incidents
The council convened after dozens of balloons carrying trash were discovered in Seoul and near the border. South Korean military released photos showing a balloon floating on a river in Seoul and rubbish scattered across streets, with police securing the area.
Military on high alert
The military has taken the balloon issue “very seriously” and is prepared to respond accordingly. North Korea began sending balloons filled with trash and manure in May as retaliation against anti-North leaflets sent by South Korean activists.
Warnings and threats
North Korea temporarily halted the balloon launches last week, claiming the 15 tons of trash sent was sufficient to convey their message. However, they threatened to resume if leaflets continued to be flown from the South, promising a hundredfold increase in trash.
Despite warnings, South Korean activists have continued to send balloons with leaflets to the North. In response, North Korea has historically reacted with extreme anger, including firing weapons at the balloons and loudspeakers used in these propaganda efforts.