On January 10, 2023, South Korea's Unification Minister Jeong Dong-young publicly expressed deep regret over a recent drone incursion from North Korea during a speech at a religious service commemorating reconciliation. He stated that the incident, which was a reckless infiltration of unmanned aerial vehicles, threatened the peaceful routine of South Korean people. Jeong clarified that investigations are ongoing, with military and police examining the actions of civilians and military personnel involved in launching drones into North Korea, relating to the northern government's growing accusations against South Korean civilians.

Jeong criticized past administrations for provoking tension by sending drones into North Korean airspace, citing these actions as reckless and dangerous, which almost led to military conflict. He presented the legal framework under which these actions are being scrutinized, highlighting that current legal proceedings are underway against those involved. His statements mark one of the first official expressions of regret from a high-ranking official in the Yoon administration concerning these tensions with North Korea, following North Korea’s own condemnation of the actions of South Korean civilians.

Furthermore, Jeong emphasized the necessity for mutual respect between the two Koreas, highlighting the government's commitment to pursuing mutual recognition and peaceful coexistence. He drew comparisons to past incidents in which North Korean leadership had expressed regret over actions that harmed South Korean personnel, thereby advocating for a more respectful dialogue that could lead to resolution rather than further aggression. Through this, Jeong aims to de-escalate the rhetorical and military confrontations between the two nations, fostering an environment for diplomatic discussions.