North Korea continues its relentless artillery barrage near its disputed sea border with South Korea, with hundreds of rounds being fired in recent days.
The hermit kingdom conducted yet another round of artillery drills on Saturday, following exercises the previous day that sparked panic in regions of its southern neighbor.
According to South Korean intelligence estimates, approximately 200 shells were fired into the area on Friday, with an additional 60 on Saturday. In response to this provocation, the South Korean Defense Ministry reportedly fired approximately 400 rounds.
Both South Korean and U.S. military officials are closely monitoring the situation and are in contact with each other. "We gravely warn that the entire responsibility of such crisis-escalating situations lies with North Korea and strongly call for its immediate halt," said South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesman Col. Lee Sung-jun at a press conference on Friday.
He further emphasized, "Under close coordination between South Korea and the United States, our military is tracking and monitoring related activity, and will conduct corresponding measures to North Korea's provocations."
The western sea border between North Korean and South Korean territory has been a hotbed of conflict since the end of the Korean War. Naval combat broke out briefly in 1999, 2022, and 2009. In 2010, North Korea allegedly torpedoed a South Korean warship, resulting in the tragic loss of 46 sailors. That same year, four South Koreans were killed on Yeonpyeong Island when the North's military bombarded the area.
The ongoing artillery barrage by North Korea near the disputed sea border raises concerns about the stability of the region and the potential for further escalation. As tensions continue to mount, South Korea and the United States remain vigilant in their efforts to ensure the safety and security of their respective territories.
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