South Korea's military has reported the discovery of over 260 balloons, believed to have been sent by North Korea, carrying trash and potentially harmful materials. These balloons, discovered between Tuesday night and Wednesday, were found in various regions, including South Chungcheong province and the capital, Seoul. The objects, ranging from timers to plastic bags filled with dirt-like substances, prompted the mobilization of chemical and explosive response teams.
The balloon campaign appears to be North Korea's response to South Korean activists sending anti-Pyongyang propaganda leaflets across the border, which has been a recurring point of tension between the two nations. This event follows a failed satellite launch by North Korea on Monday, after which North Korean leader Kim Jong Un called for continued efforts in developing space-based reconnaissance and warned of stern actions against South Korea for its military exercises.
In response, the South Korean military has condemned the act as a violation of international law and a serious threat to public safety. There have been no immediate reports of casualties or significant damage caused by the balloons. This incident marks a notable escalation in the long-standing propaganda war between North and South Korea, further straining the already tense relations on the peninsula.