North Korea Calls U.S.-South Korea Drills ‘Dangerous Provocative Act’

North Korea denounces U.S.-South Korea drills as a “dangerous provocative act,” exacerbated by a recent accidental bombing that injured 29 civilians. The drills, ongoing until March 20, are viewed by North Korea as a threat of invasion, while South Korea insists they are vital for defense readiness. An apology has been issued for the bombing incident, which further complicates already tense military relations.

North Korea has criticized the combined military exercises between the U.S. and South Korea, labeling them a “dangerous provocative act,” highlighting concerns of accidental shootings that could lead to conflict. These annual Freedom Shield drills commenced on March 13 and are set to continue until March 20, though live-fire practices are currently halted due to an accidental bombing incident last week.

This incident, involving South Korean jets mistakenly dropping bombs on a civilian area, resulted in at least 29 injuries. Traditionally, North Korea has demanded the cessation of U.S.-South Korea joint exercises, viewing them as precursors to invasion. The South Korean military contends that these drills are essential for preparing the alliance against threats from North Korea.

North Korea’s foreign ministry stated, “This is a dangerous provocative act of leading the acute situation on the Korean peninsula,” emphasizing the potential for conflict due to an accidental shot. The ministry further asserted that the drills would jeopardize U.S. security.

In light of the bombing incident, Lee Young-su, chief of South Korea’s Air Force, publicly apologized, admitting that it was an “unprecedented” mishap that should not have occurred.

Investigation findings indicate that time constraints led one pilot to overlook target coordinates, resulting in bombs dropped from another jet that failed to verify the information. The bombing impacted Pocheon, a civilian area 40 kilometers northeast of Seoul, which has long been troubled by the risks associated with military exercises.

North Korea’s condemnation of U.S.-South Korea military drills highlights ongoing tensions on the Korean Peninsula. The accidental bombing incident, which injured many civilians, raises serious safety concerns. Apologies from South Korean military leadership reflect the gravity of the situation, underlining the importance of careful operational protocols to avoid escalation.

Original Source: www.japantimes.co.jp