South Korea Proposes Military Talks With North Korea to Avert Border Clashes

Overview

• The defense ministry announced on Nov. 17 a proposal for talks between military authorities following recent crossings near the Military Demarcation Line.
• Seoul asked to arrange the date and venue through Panmunjom, using established inter-Korean contact channels.
• Policy director Kim Hong-cheol highlighted differing perceptions of the boundary and warned that repeated incidents could escalate into military conflict.
• South Korean forces have responded to incursions with warning broadcasts and warning shots, and officials count roughly 10 cases since January.
• North Korea has not yet indicated whether it will accept the proposal.