South Korea has reported the detection of suspected trash-carrying balloons launched by North Korea, marking the latest development in the ongoing psychological warfare between the two neighboring countries. The metropolitan government of Seoul issued text alerts advising residents to remain indoors and be cautious of objects potentially falling from the sky. The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed the presence of these balloons, indicating that they could drift into the northern part of Gyeonggi Province near Seoul due to prevailing wind directions. Citizens were urged to report any sightings of fallen balloons to the authorities and refrain from touching them.
North Korea has been actively sending balloons containing waste paper, cloth scraps, and cigarette butts across the border into South Korea as a form of retaliation against anti-Pyongyang propaganda leaflets distributed by South Korean activists. The reclusive nation, led by Kim Jong Un, views external criticism of its leadership with extreme sensitivity.
While no injuries or damages have been reported thus far, concerns have been raised regarding the security of key South Korean facilities following an incident in July when trash from a North Korean balloon landed in the South Korean presidential compound. Fortunately, the materials in the balloon were deemed non-hazardous, and there were no casualties.
In response to North Korea's balloon launches, South Korea has activated its front-line loudspeakers to broadcast propaganda messages and K-pop songs. These actions are part of the escalating tensions fueled by North Korea's nuclear ambitions and South Korea's joint military exercises with the United States.
