The situation between South Korea and North Korea is at a low point, with tensions escalating despite not violating UN sanctions. Analysts have warned of a risk of military clashes, as South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has suspended a detente military agreement with North Korea after recent balloon launches. Pyongyang retaliated by sending nearly a thousand balloons filled with trash in response to balloons sent by South Korean activists containing K-pop, dollar notes, and anti-Kim Jong Un propaganda.
On the day before, the South Korean army confirmed receiving nearly 330 balloons filled with garbage from North Korea. Analysis showed that the balloons did not contain any dangerous substances, but citizens were urged to stay away from them. The suspension of the 2018 agreement allows South Korea to resume live-fire exercises and propaganda campaigns against North Korea. Opposition parties have criticized the government for not taking stronger action against the balloon launches and for resuming loudspeaker propaganda campaigns, fearing an escalation towards armed conflict.
In response to Pyongyang’s actions, South Korea has resumed a loudspeaker propaganda campaign towards North Korea as a means to convey messages of light and hope. The continuation of this broadcast depends on North Korea’s actions according to the Joint Chiefs of Staff. However, some analysts believe that this move may only further inflame tensions between the two Koreas.
