Kang Shin-cheol, the Minister of National Defense, stated on October 6 that the military's mine removal operation south of the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) conducted the previous day was a "firm response."
Speaking to reporters at the Ministry of National Defense in Yongsan, Seoul, Kang noted, "This is the first time in the history of our DMZ." He added, "Our comrades suffered serious injuries from landmines installed by North Korea under the pretext of 'fortifying the border' while carrying out a legitimate operation. Our military took necessary measures yesterday."
Earlier, the South Korean military removed a North Korean minefield south of the MDL, which was identified by the United Nations Command as a violation of the armistice agreement. The military emphasized that it would continue mine removal operations if North Korea does not voluntarily eliminate the minefield it established south of the MDL.
In response to criticism that the military's actions were passive, Kang asserted, "That is not the case." He emphasized, "All responsibility lies with North Korea. In the future, our military will respond firmly to any actions taken for national security."
However, Kang acknowledged that there are differences in perception regarding the MDL between the South, North, and the United Nations Command, urging North Korea to engage in dialogue. Regarding follow-up actions after the mine removal operation, he stated, "We are considering various options, but it is difficult to discuss them here."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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