Trash carried by a North Korean balloon fell on the presidential compound in central Seoul for the second time, raising concerns about the vulnerability of key South Korean sites. The incident occurred amidst escalating threats and rhetoric between the rival Koreas over North Korea's claims of South Korea flying drones over Pyongyang to distribute propaganda leaflets.
No hazardous items were found in the rubbish dropped on the ground when a North Korean balloon burst over the South Korean presidential compound. North Korea has been sending balloons carrying plastic and paper waste into South Korea since late May as part of a psychological campaign. The trash that landed on the compound contained no dangerous materials.
Reports indicated that North Korean leaflets criticizing the South Korean president and his wife were discovered in Seoul's Yongsan district. The leaflets described the president's wife as a latter-day Marie Antoinette. This was the first instance of North Korean propaganda leaflets being found in South Korea since the balloon campaign began five months ago.
Experts suggest that North Korea may lack the technology to target specific locations with the balloons. The accuracy of the balloons is attributed to launching them in large numbers and leveraging wind direction and speed for travel.
North Korea has accused South Korea of sending drones to drop propaganda leaflets over Pyongyang and has threatened military responses. South Korea has not confirmed the drone operations but warned of severe consequences if the safety of its citizens is jeopardized.
The Koreas have engaged in Cold War-style campaigns, with North Korea increasing weapons tests and military cooperation with Russia. Reports indicate that North Korean troops have been deployed to Russia for training, with plans to send more to support war efforts in Ukraine.
South Korea is concerned about potential technology transfers from Russia to North Korea that could enhance the latter's nuclear and missile programs targeting South Korea and the United States.
