Warning Shots Fired at Korean Border as Tensions Rise Again

South Korea's military said its troops fired warning shots after a group of North Korean soldiers crossed the military demarcation line inside the demilitarised zone, in the latest of a series of incidents along the heavily fortified frontier.

The North Korean personnel withdrew after the shots were fired and no casualties were reported, Seoul said. It described the crossing as brief and said it was assessing whether it was deliberate.

PATTERN OF INCIDENTS

Similar crossings have occurred repeatedly in recent months, often while work parties carry out construction and mine-laying near the line. Seoul has said some appear accidental, but that the frequency raises the risk of miscalculation.

MILITARY POSTURE

Both militaries have increased activity along the border since the collapse of earlier confidence-building arrangements. Loudspeaker broadcasts and balloon launches have resumed on both sides.

RESPONSE

South Korea's defence ministry said it had strengthened surveillance and urged the North to prevent further crossings. Pyongyang did not immediately comment.

VERIFIED SNAPSHOT

Incident: crossing of the military demarcation line followed by warning shots. Casualties: none reported. Source: South Korean defence officials.