South Korea announced the restoration of no-fly zones near the military demarcation line following the incursion of drones from South Korea into North Korean airspace, prompting an investigation involving three civilians.
On the 18th, South Korea's Minister of Unification, Jeong Dong-yeong, declared the intention to restore no-fly zones established near the military demarcation line, in response to incidents where drones entered North Korean airspace. These incursions are reported to have occurred four times, including twice last September and twice in November, implicating three civilians who are now under investigation for potentially compromising South Korea's military interests.
The no-fly zones were part of a military agreement aimed at preventing accidental conflicts between North and South Korea. However, following North Korea's launch of military reconnaissance satellites, the South Korean government, under President Yoon Suk-yeol, suspended the agreement's effectiveness in 2023. The South Korean authorities now aim to proactively restore these zones to mitigate risks of further incursions and to enhance safety protocols concerning drone flights in sensitive areas.
In light of these events, new regulations concerning drone flights are set to be introduced, strengthening penalties for unauthorized flights in restricted airspace. Minister Jeong expressed regret over the situation earlier this month, and North Korea's Kim Yo-jong acknowledged the situation with a call for preventive measures. Jeong reiterated his regrets during the press conference, highlighting ongoing tensions and the necessity for dialogue and cooperation in maintaining peace along the border.
