North Korea Sends Hundreds More Trash-Filled Balloons to South Korea

North Korea has intensified its balloon-launching campaign towards South Korea in apparent retaliation for anti-North Korean leaflets flown across the border. South Korea’s military reported the launch of about 600 balloons carrying various debris, including cigarette butts and waste paper, but no hazardous materials.

The military urged caution, advising people not to touch suspected North Korean objects and to report them instead. While there were no injuries or damage reported, Seoul’s city government issued alerts regarding unidentified objects near the city.

This escalation follows North Korea’s recent provocative actions, including failed satellite launches and missile tests aimed at showcasing its preemptive strike capabilities against the South.

Responding to the debris, South Korea dispatched teams to recover the materials, including trash and manure, found in various parts of the country. Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, confirmed the balloon launches as a response to South Korean activism and suggested they could become a regular tactic.

South Korea’s Unification Ministry issued a warning, urging North Korea to cease provocations or face consequences. Despite tensions, South Korea’s military opted not to shoot down the balloons to avoid escalation and potential retaliation.