Chairman of Joint Chiefs Inspects DMZ Mine Explosion Investigation Preparations

Jin Young-seung, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, visited the Army's 25th Division on September 25 to assess preparations for an investigation into a suspected mine explosion in the western front of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).

According to Yonhap News, Chairman Jin reviewed the progress of the investigation preparations with key commanders, including Lee Sang-ryeol, Commander of the Army Ground Operations Command, the acting commander of the 1st Corps, and the commander of the 25th Division, as well as the 'Joint Field Investigation Task Force.'

The Joint Chiefs of Staff stated, "The Joint Field Investigation Task Force, led by Vice Chairman Kwon Dae-won, is carrying out its mission even during the Chuseok holiday," adding that the investigation team will commence its duties once safety measures are fully established.

However, concerns have been raised that rain during the Chuseok holiday could damage the accident site, particularly since there is a river near the area, which could lead to the loss of evidence or mines. Changes in the terrain due to rainfall may also complicate the identification of the exact location of the incident.

In response, the opposition party, including the People Power Party, which has raised the possibility of North Korean mines being involved, is demanding a swift investigation. Meanwhile, military authorities emphasize that ensuring the safety of investigation personnel is the top priority, given that the accident site is close to the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) and is considered a hazardous area.

Additionally, the Joint Chiefs of Staff denied claims that the South Korean military delayed responding to a request for an investigation from the United Nations Command. They stated, "The South Korean military and the UN Command have agreed that securing safety measures is the top priority from the onset of the situation and have been preparing for the joint field investigation," noting that the UN Command's Military Armistice Commission visited the 25th Division on September 22 to confirm details related to the explosion and coordinate on the joint investigation.