Incidents of North Korean soldiers crossing the border into South Korea prompt South Korean soldiers to fire warning shots in an effort to repel them, amid suspicions of increased construction activities to prevent defections.
On June 18, 2024, South Korean soldiers fired warning shots to repel approximately 20 to 30 North Korean soldiers who temporarily crossed the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) around 8:30 a.m., South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said. The North Korean troops were engaged in construction work on their side of the border and retreated after warnings were broadcast and shots were fired. This incident, occurring along the central frontline, marks the second such border crossing this month.
A similar intrusion happened on June 11. South Korean military has noticed increased construction on the North’s side of the border, including anti-tank barriers, road reinforcements, and land mines. It is suspected that these activities aim to prevent North Korean defections. The incidents arise amidst heightened tensions and a breakdown of a 2018 military agreement to reduce hostilities.
