18 Jun 2024 | 05:36 AM UTC
North, South Korea: Several North Korean soldiers killed by landmine explosion near border; South Korean forces fire warning shots June 18
Landmine explosion kills several North Korean soldiers near the border; South Korean forces fire warning shots June 18.
Several North Korean soldiers have been injured by a landmine explosion near the border between North and South Korea the morning of June 18. The exact number of casualties is unclear. The blast occurred after dozens of North Korean soldiers breached the military demarcation line at around 08:30 but promptly retreated following warning shots by South Korean forces.
The incident highlights longstanding tensions along the heavily fortified border between North and South Korea, where landmines are used as a defensive measure by both sides to secure their respective territories. According to local sources, the North Korean soldiers were likely involved in security and infrastructure development projects in the area, which have been ongoing since April at the time of the incident. Earlier on June 10, South Korean forces fired warning shots after a brief border incursion from North Korea, marking the second such incident in two weeks. The landmine explosion and warning shots could provoke a response from North Korea, though any response will probably be limited.
