Overview
- South Korea’s police and military are investigating Pyongyang’s accusations of drone incursions in September and on Jan. 4, with the defense ministry denying any military role and examining possible civilian involvement.
- Kim Yo-jong reiterated demands for acknowledgment, an apology and guarantees against recurrence, while noting Seoul’s statement that the military was not involved.
- Unification Minister Chung Dong-young said the government will act based on the probe’s findings, signaled openness to corresponding measures and urged proactive diplomacy to help restart North Korea–U.S. talks.
- National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac cautioned against treating the episode as a diplomatic opening and said the government is reviewing restoration of the suspended Sept. 19, 2018 inter-Korean military agreement under a presidential guideline.
- Seoul launched a new vice minister–level consultative channel between the unification and foreign ministries, and the Unification Ministry posted draft legislation to place the Korea Institute for National Unification under its control, drawing opposition and staff concerns over research independence.