North Korean landmines, possibly planted rather than washed away… additional ones found at the scene
We examine the cause of the DMZ landmine accident and the military authorities' analysis, focusing on the possibility that North Korea planted them Quickly check the key points, including whether the armistice agreement was violated and future responses
The military authorities identified mines laid by North Korean troops as the cause of the explosion in the DMZ on the Western Front. The accident site was judged to be south of the Military Demarcation Line (MDL), and one unexploded antipersonnel bounding mine was additionally discovered at the scene.
Defense Minister Kang Shincheol told the National Assembly’s Defense Committee that the matter constitutes a violation of the Armistice Agreement and said that corresponding measures against North Korea would be implemented step by step. The Joint Chiefs of Staff explained, based on expert opinion, that the mines were likely laid at least a year ago.
The military authorities, citing the fact that a total of four mines were identified around the accident site, believe the North Korean military may have laid them to create a minefield or to fortify the border line. However, they added that because some of the Military Demarcation Line markers have been lost, there may still be differing views on boundary recognition in the area.