Defense Minister Kang Shin-cheol has directed that utmost care be taken in the treatment and recovery of soldiers injured in a suspected landmine explosion in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) on the western front, which occurred the previous day. He also called for a thorough investigation into the cause of the incident.
During a regular briefing, Defense Ministry spokesperson Jeong Bit-na stated, "Minister Kang received a report on the situation today and emphasized that we must ensure our injured soldiers can focus on their treatment and recovery." She added, "He instructed that the cause be thoroughly investigated and necessary measures be actively taken."
According to the Joint Chiefs of Staff, two military officers were injured in an explosion believed to be caused by a landmine while conducting operations south of the military demarcation line (MDL) in the DMZ. The injured personnel were airlifted to the National Military Medical Center. While their lives are not in danger, one officer reportedly suffered severe injuries, including the amputation of an ankle.
The operation was part of efforts to prepare for a field investigation by the United Nations Command. The military had previously identified changes in the terrain near the MDL and requested a field investigation from the UN Command, which is scheduled for early next week.
Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesperson Jang Do-young explained, "The operational troops were using mine detectors to clear the search route when the explosion occurred." It has been confirmed that the injured personnel were wearing protective gear, including protective suits and mine boots, at the time of the incident.
While the accident site has been identified as near the MDL, the exact location has not been disclosed due to the need for a site investigation. The military plans to quickly verify the site in collaboration with the UN Command to determine the precise location of the incident and the cause of the explosion.
Spokesperson Jang added, "We will keep all possibilities open and thoroughly investigate the cause to take necessary actions. I extend my deepest sympathies to the injured soldiers and their families and assure that we will do our utmost for their swift recovery."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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